Horse Racing
19 June, 2025
Leedham crowned champion
Champion after notching up a win and four third placings from his five drives in the prestigious contest at the Horsham Racing Centre on Wednesday, June 11.
Leedham finished third in the opening round with the Jim Barker trained El Awoman, third again with Daisy Bouchea for Jason Ainsworth and made it three by three with True Blue Rose for Barry Finnis in the next.
An all the way win with Keayang Seaside for the Marg & Paddy Lee stable boosted Leedham's tally and he went into the final heat with a five-point lead over Michael Stanley with Glen Craven another point behind in third.
Drawn the pole with Eastbro Kozzy for trainer Rebecca East, the combo enjoyed the run of the race on the back of the leader Ranger Rick (Jason Lee) and the 4yo gelding boxed on bravely over the final stages to hold on to third place behind the winner Jazzy Melea (Kerryn Manning).
Leedham works at the Long Forest stables of Kate and Andy Gath and had only driven a few times at Horsham in the four years since gaining his licence.
He's been in red-hot form with the reins and to snare the Horsham title with his first invite, is a fine achievement.
treating owners, trainer and driver to hospitality, prizes and products thanks to generous industry sponsors - celebrating the grassroots participants who keep harness racing strong.
“It’s our way of saying thank you to the people who support the club and who keep the industry running,” club President Terry Lewis said.
Prizes were donated by Decron Horse Care, Carbine Chemicals, Zilco Aust., Worlds Best Hoof Oil, Oringi Protection Wear, Flyveils by Design, Mustad Australia, Hyland Harness Colours, Hygain Equine Feeds, Melton Entertainment Park, Virbac Australia, Victorian Harness Racing Trainers and Drivers Association, and Harness Racing Victoria.
The final points tally was: Jordan Leedham (43 points); Jason Lee (38); Glen Craven (36); Michael Stanley (36); Kerryn Manning (30); Matt Craven (26); Jack Laugher (25); Jackie Barker (23); Chris Alford (20); Chris Svanosio (19).