Master harness driver Chris Alford is on the brink of an extraordinary achievement in the world of harness racing. With an impressive career record of almost 8000 wins, Alford stands as a true legend in the sport. At 55 years old, he is set to surpass a milestone that few could have imagined reaching. His unparalleled success in harness racing places him far ahead of any other Australian driver, with the late Gavin Lang being a distant second on the all-time wins list. For comparison, the most wins by an Australian jockey stand at 4441, a testament to Alford’s remarkable career.
Alford’s journey to 8000 wins has been nothing short of remarkable. His recent victory at Melton brought his total to 7984 wins, edging closer to the historic milestone. Despite the slowing pace of wins, Alford’s passion and competitiveness remain undiminished. His 136 Group 1 wins in Australia, along with major victories in New Zealand, underscore his exceptional talent and enduring success in the sport.
The road to 8000 wins has been a testament to Alford’s dedication and skill. Having started driving at the young age of 16, he has dominated Australian harness racing, claiming the title of the leading driver 15 times. Alford’s record-breaking season in 2017/18, with 456 wins, exemplifies his prowess on the track. Throughout his career, he has formed successful partnerships with trainers who have played a crucial role in his achievements.
As Alford approaches the historic milestone, the harness racing community eagerly anticipates the momentous occasion. His upcoming races at Cobram, Yarra Valley, and Geelong offer opportunities for him to inch closer to the remarkable 8000-win mark. Harness Racing Victoria is hopeful that this milestone will coincide with prestigious events like the Ballarat and Hunter Cup, adding to the significance of the achievement.
Reflecting on his illustrious career, Alford remains humble and focused on the thrill of reaching 8000 wins. His unwavering dedication to the sport and his enduring competitive spirit have been driving forces behind his success. While some of his longstanding partnerships have evolved over the years, Alford continues to garner support from a loyal base of trainers and supporters.
Alford’s legacy in harness racing is defined by monumental victories like his Inter Dominion triumphs in Christchurch and Gloucester Park. These triumphs, coupled with his consistent success on the track, have solidified his status as a true icon in the sport. As he steers towards his 8000th win, Alford’s impact on harness racing and his remarkable achievements serve as an inspiration to aspiring drivers and fans alike.
The harness racing community eagerly awaits the historic moment when Chris Alford secures his 8000th win, a testament to his unparalleled skill, dedication, and enduring legacy in the sport.
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