Turnbull enjoying a top run

17 August 2022

Fourth generation horseman Nathan Turnbull is currently in career best form.

The Lagoon based trainer-driver brought up four winners in two days over the weekend, landing doubles at both Parkes on Friday night and at Tabcorp Park Menangle on Saturday.

Known for his ability to take horses from the area’s hobby trainers and take them through their classes, Turnbull’s winners on Friday were for owners who frequent Parkes and they were on hand to witness the victories.

However, Turnbull’s winners at headquarters on Saturday night are both owned by Dubbo restaurant operators David and Chrissy Ford who have been long term supporters of his stable.

Despite quite a deal of success in the sport, it was the Fords first ever winning double in town and they were ecstatic with the result.

“It has certainly been a big week for our stable,” said Turnbull.

“It was really pleasing to win with Special Meaning and Baby Bee Mine at Parkes for their respective owners.

 “It is always great to win races for owners at their home track as it means so much to them and you can celebrate those victories with them.

“I have to admit though, Saturday night was one of the best nights that I have ever had at the track. “It was my second double in town but was the first for the owners.

“David and Chrissy have been great supporters of mine and I was so pumped when both horses won for them.”

On Monday night, Turnbull’s son Jett made his debut in the gig at the Bathurst trials, adding to the week’s excitement for the Turnbull family.

At just 15 years of age, Jett has shown talent as a horseman from the time he started driving the mini trotters and appeared competent in his first trail drives.

“Carly and I are so proud of Jett,” said Turnbull.

“All he has ever wanted to do is drive the horses. He works extremely hard at home, and he drove really well on Monday.”

Turnbull has four drives at Bathurst tonight, three from his own stable and one for Forbes trainer Jason Gaffney.

“I actually think Jason’s horse Grinfaron (race 5) is my best winning chance,” he said.

“His three runs since joining the Gaffney team have been solid and if he can secure the right trip, he will be hard to hold out.”