John Morrison has claimed the top graduating cadet of the year gong. Photo Tetsuro MitomoMonday night was one to remember for young harness racing junior driver John Morrison, as young drivers from around Canterbury gathered for their annual prizegiving.

John faced an agonising wait for his award with it being the second to last on the night’s agenda.

It was well worth the wait however with John claiming the top graduating cadet of the year gong.

Not only was this one of the largest awards of the evening it also came with a substantial prize, including a trip to Australia with a few weeks’ placement at a stable of his choice, all expenses paid.

“There are about six or seven drivers around my ranking which makes it very competitive.

“It makes winning the award even more satisfying”, John said.

“I’ve had a few winning drives this year which was great, but the best bit is getting out there and competing”.

By Jaime Pitt-MacKay © The Ashburton Guardian - 10 December 2016