First win for Fodie

Bruce Stewart Contributor

“I was super stoked. I didn’t expect to be winning that. I though we’d go out and maybe get a place. Coming up the straight I thought sh.. I might actually have this. The adrenaline kicked in.” Such was harness racing drivers Brooke Fodie’s reaction after winning her first race today at Ascot Park.

The race was full of action, but Fodie was able to stay out of the fireworks and follow leader Dwindle Star. At the 400, four horses were across the track vying for the top. Turning in, Brooke was able to get a run up the passing lane and go on to win by three quarters of a length from Nubliah Chamay.

“She can be a bit a relaxed on the bit. I thought hopefully when I pulled out she’d still have a bit of lick and she showed a wee bit.”

Brooke Fodie heading back to the stables after her first win (Bruce Stewart Photo)

Today’s win came at start number nineteen for the Oamaru based junior.

“I had a couple of wee hiccups early on, but I learnt from it and went back and watched the videos. I put a lot of time into my form. I just want to get better.”

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Brooke Fodie and Jordan Anne (Bruce Stewart Photo)

Fodie works fulltime for trainer Matty Williamson.

“Matt’s a great mentor. He can look at things from different perspectives. He’s got a good eye for racing that’s for sure.”

Fodie comes from a show jumping and eventing background but found it hard to juggle work while pursuing the sport.

“Most of the events are in Christchurch which can be one to three days and getting time off for that was a bit tricky. I sold my horse and got straight into the racing game.”

Jordan Anne is raced by the Corner Shop, the Who’s Driving and the Wilson Racing Syndicates, plus Fodie.

“To win my first race with her is amazing. Matt gifted me a ten percent share (laughter).”

Williamson was also happy for his junior to get her first win.

“It’s great. She’s got the monkey off her back and she can concentrate on driving,” he told me.