A Bishop Auckland harness racing driver has produced what is believed to be one of the greatest individual performances ever seen in British harness racing after driving six winners at Scotland’s prestigious Haugh Field Scottish Classic Meeting, reports Scottish harness racing.
Watson Harrop Jr enjoyed an unforgettable afternoon by steering six winners from a single race card, including victories in both of the day’s feature finals.
The British Harness Racing Club has confirmed that no driver has ever recorded more than six winners on a single race card.
While historical records cannot conclusively establish whether the feat has previously been equalled, they have confirmed that no driver has ever surpassed it.
Winning one race at any meeting is considered a successful day’s work. Winning six races, while also capturing both of the meeting’s championship finals, is an exceptionally rare achievement requiring consistency, tactical judgement and horsemanship throughout an entire day’s racing.
Speaking after his historic day, Watson said: “Naturally I’m very proud of what was achieved, but I hope this story helps shine a light on harness racing itself.
“The sport has a fantastic history throughout the North East and there are so many dedicated people who give their time to keep it going.
“It’s a family sport in every sense, and that’s certainly true for us. Five generations of my family have been involved and now my young son is already desperate to be around the horses every day. Hopefully achievements like this encourage more people to come along to a meeting and see just how exciting harness racing can be.”
Bishop Auckland's local community newspaper.
