Australia's best harness racing drivers will assemble in Launceston, Tasmania, in November when Tasracing, Harness Racing Australia (HRA) and the Launceston Pacing Club (LPC) host the second Australian Driving Championships.
Two drivers from each state (12 drivers in total) will contest six races for points to decide the winning driver.
Tasracing chief executive officer Dr Eliot Forbes said Tasmania was home to some remarkable driving talent of all ages.
"The Championship provides an opportunity for local drivers to compete on one of their home tracks against the best drivers from interstate," he said. "In addition, Tasmanian harness racing fans have the opportunity to watch the best driving skills live," Dr. Forbes said.
HRA chief executive officer Andrew Kelly said he was delighted that Launceston would host the 2015 event on Sunday 15 November.
"In only its second year, the Australian Driving Championship has already succeeded in filling an important industry role – bringing together the best drivers from each state to compete for the title of Australian Driving Champion," Kelly said.
"One of the things I particularly like about this concept is the opportunity for owners and trainers to meet and interact with the best drivers in Australia.
"These conversations allow participants to pick up hints or even tips about how a horse might be driven in future, tinkering with gear or just a general chat," he said.
LPC president Joel Wallace said the club felt privileged to have been selected to host the series.
"We are very much looking forward to showcasing our track and our facilities, and the quality and competitiveness of our horses to a wider national audience," Wallace said.
Last year Tasmania was represented by Gareth Rattray and Rick Duggan.
The drivers who finished first and second in the Tasmanian driver award last season will represent the state and that will again be Rattray (100 wins) and Duggan (68 wins).
Peter Staples