Turnbull takes off like a Jett

21 July 2023

The much-anticipated introduction to race driving for fifth generation reinsman Jett Turnbull unfolded at Bathurst on Wednesday night with a perfect start.

For any budding young horsemen, that first experience on the big stage can never come around fast enough and the dream that a winner will come their way first-up is often just that.

But the fairytale became a reality for Turnbull who, just one day after his 16th birthday saluted at his second race drive.

It has been well documented that Turnbull has been itching to make his debut to drive in races, his destiny assured following on from previous generations of champion horsemen and women on both sides, his mother Carly being the daughter of Greg and Deanna Rue.

Turnbull excelled as a mini trotting driver and then showed he had what it takes when completing his mandatory trial drives at Bathurst.

Since leaving school last December, the youngster has worked alongside his father Nathan at their training base in The Lagoon and he was well prepared to take the next step.

Not all went to plan however in his first drive aboard former Kiwi Flyin Tommy as the gelding refused to score up and tailed out a distant last.

But to his credit, Turnbull brushed off that disappointment and produced a well-timed and confident drive aboard the heavily supported Faze Of Glory three races later.

Turnbull allowed the gelding that is trained by his father to settle at the tail of the field from his wide barrier draw before making a move with 700m to travel, sweeping past the leaders, and racing clear for an arrogant 22m victory.

It was one of those special moments in racing, one of jubilation when Turnbull’s excited and proud family greeted him as he returned to scale.

“It was the ultimate thrill,” said Turnbull.

“I have been waiting for this day all my life and to drive a winner on the first night was so good.

“The race played out perfectly for my guy. We went back early, and the speed was on which suited him. Then when I let him rip, he showed his class and was so impressive.

“I honestly did not realise how far in front I was, I was too scared to look. I just wanted to get him home for Dad and the owners.”