Olivia Thornley notches up first training victory

By Mike Love 

Enchanted Star's victory at Methven was a celebration for trainer-driver Olivia Thornley on a number of levels.

“It’s really special, especially training, owning, breeding and driving it, and being involved with the family," she says.

The win in the Denario Breeding Trot was Thornley's first training success in what was her 12th starter over three seasons.

She had had three placings prior to winning, two of those with Enchanted Star who she bred and races with her mother Jackie. 

It was Enchanted Star’s third race day start with the three-year-old Creatine filly previously having two thirds.

“I was just happy to get through each race, doing everything right and learning was the main aim.”  

In a faultless display, Enchanted Star secured the trail for the majority of the race before zipping up the passing lane to win by one-and-three-quarter-lengths. 

Thornley has now driven 127 winners including 20 in 2026. Two more victories this season will see her gain a personal best. 

Immediate plans for Enchanted Star are yet to be decided. 

“It’s never easy jumping out of maidens,” explains Thornley.

“You can end up racing horses that have won more races than you’ve had starts. But, with her great attitude she should always be thereabouts.” 

Thornley is employed by Hayden and Amanda Cullen, and trains Enchanted Star from their facilities. 

“It’s really good for educating them and working them in with other horses. I’m pretty lucky.” 

Enchanted Star's dam Starlight Express has to-date left four foals. Along with Enchanted Star, one qualified and was never raced, one was raced placed from a short career, and there is currently a Majestic Son yearling that has been broken in and almost ready for another short prep. 

Other highlights at Methven was Tact Teva’s win in the Cavalier Trotting Products Akaroa Cup. Proving too classy for the field, the Team Telfer-trained  four-year-old started off 35 metres and was made to work hard before getting home by more than a length, backing up his win in the Timaru Spring Cup two weeks ago.