DANIELLE (DANNI) HILL
Hi Danni, thank you for taking the time to answer a few questions.
1. Congratulations on being selected to represent the state for the Australasian Young Drivers, how many times have you been selected? This is the 2nd time I will be representing South Australia.
2. Which states and tracks have you driven on? I have driven in WA at Gloucester Park, NSW at Harold Park, Vic at Maryborough, Bendigo, Shepparton, Kilmore, Mildura, Ouyen, Ballarat, Cranbourne & Horsham. Yet to drive in Qld but I will be driving there in March 2009.
3. You started out in the pony’s yourself, how many years did you drive for? I started driving in pony races when I was 6 years old. I went right through until I was 16 years old.
4. When you were young did you ever think that you would become so popular and have the success that you do? I guess you always look up to certain drivers when you’re young and you want the success that they do.
5. What was the name of your pony’s? and are any of them still racing? I had Leeandra Khan, Blossom, Magic Man & Red Devil Khan. Red Devil Khan is still in Victoria with David Aiken, I think he may be retired from racing now.
6. Both your parents were involved in Harness Racing so driving is in your blood. At what age did you start driving the bigger horses? I remember driving the bigger horses when I was about 5 or 6, I would sit on dad’s lap and steer.
7. What has been your biggest thrill? I love it when you have done the hard yards with a horse like the training and preparation and then are rewarded with a win. Also winning the Southern Cross 2yr Colts & Geldings Final has been a highlight, along with the Sapling Stakes & Gawler Derby Wins.
8. What is the best horse you have ever driven? It’s hard to narrow it down to one because I have so many favourites like:- On The Scotch, Triple Velocity, Zerrafoss, Breakin News, Whativwegot & Piccolo Wil Wil. (more really nice ones Lorenzo Bromac, Neverland Express & Sure Ionafastone).
9. Is there something special you would like to achieve in the Harness Racing game? I really want to be the best I possibly can, but I suppose you dream of winning Interdominion or Group 1 race.
10. Where do you work and what is your position? I work at the SA Harness Racing Club (Globe Derby Park) as the P/A to the Club Secretary.
11. Do you have any wise advice for our young drivers coming through the pony’s? Enjoy what you do, work hard and remember you can never stop learning.
Entered February 2009