By Kate Lockyer
Leap to Fame has lived up to his name after claiming first place at the Ladbrokes Inter Dominion 2023 Finals held in December at Albion Park.
The horse is owned by Brisbane property developer Kevin Seymour and his wife Kay who said the pacer’s sire Bettor’s Delight was one of the best sires in Australia.
“The stand actually vibrated with all the people cheering and as he turned into the straight it just became an uproar, it was just absolutely amazing.
“So, he certainly turned out to be the people’s favourite,” he said.
Brad Steele, Albion Park Harness Racing Club chairman, said: “The crowds that enjoyed the Ladbrokes ID23 series were reminiscent of the halcyon days of harness racing of the 80’s and 90’s.”
“Leap To Fame was simply superb and the local Queensland connection just added to the theatre on grand final night. The roar of the crowd is back at Albion Park,” he said.
Mr and Mrs Seymour have been involved in harness racing for about 50 years, and Mr Seymour has worked his way up in the club.
“It all started back in 1967, when I was looking for extra income to take the family overseas, and I saw a job advertised at Albion Park for the opening night, and I started a job there as a ticket seller,” he said.
“And I rose from ticket seller to the club chairman.”
They have Leap to Fame trainer and driver Grant Dixon to thank for not just his training, but for selecting the horse that would go on to be a winner.
They have made friends all over the world through the sport, and in attendance on the night were plenty of interstate and Kiwi visitors who added to the occasion and contributed to the local economy.
Mr Seymour will donate Leap to Fame’s shoes to the club to auction for charity.
Ken Rutherford, Club Chief Operating Officer, said: “The Ladbrokes ID23 series was a massive success for the Albion Park Harness Racing Club and showcased the sport of harness racing in its best possible light.”
“Grand final night was sold out, with patrons on-course treated to something very special from local hero, Leap to Fame. His win in the pacers’ grand final will be etched into Inter Dominion folklore in years to come.
With over 2,000 people on the track for grand final night, wagering more that $6.1 million, the event has created the best ever return on a harness racing feature race meeting in Queensland.
Photo caption:
Kay and Kevin Seymour with the grand final trophy and Bailey