Matty Williamson's "competitive team" for Harness 5000

By Dave Di Somma, Harness News Desk 

Ashburton's been a happy hunting ground for Matty Williamson in recent times and he's hoping his "competitive" team will continue that run of success at this December's Advanced Feed Harness 5000.

The Oamaru-based trainer-driver, who's fourth in the drivers premiership with 69 wins this year, had three successes on Ashburton Flying Stakes day on Labour Monday - two as a driver (Chicago Sky and Becky's Girl) and one as a trainer (Princess Sadie).

That follows last year's inaugural Harness 5000 where he had a win and two placings. He won with Tarragindi and had a second with Atlantic City. Both were trained by his father Phil and he had a third placing with one of his own in Pyramid Rose.

Seventh in the 5YO and older Trotting Mares, Pyramid Rose will return this year as part of a team that could be a real force on the day.  

"I have some nice horses and they will be competitive," says Williamson.

Set to join Pyramid Rose will be the likes of Axel Rose, Seeking Clarity, Mumsdawitch and New Mexico

A winner of four from 16, Seeking Clarity is currently the top-rated horse in the 3YO Pacing Fillies category while New Mexico and Mumsdawitch are second and third in the 3YO Trotting Fillies behind Delphyne. 

Of his contenders only 4YO gelding Axel Rose is not currently eligible because of insufficient starts but the qualifying period doesn't end until November 22.

To qualify 3YOs must start in at least eight races between January 1 - November 22, 2026 with at least 12 races for the 4YO and 5YO and older horses.

The second edition of the Harness 5000 will be held at Ashburton on Sunday, December 6 with 12 Listed $40,000 races for 3YO, 4YO and 5YO Trotters and Pacers whose sire stood for $5000 or less at the time of service.

The total number of horses who are currently eligible is 320, with the 5YO Pacing Entires and Geldings the biggest category with a whooping 81 horses that are eligible. 

It's a series that Williamson is looking forward to.

"It's a great concept," he says, "all the races are 1700 metres and they will be smoking along."

"It's a nice end to the year."

To see the Harness 5000 leaderboard click here