By Courtney Buchanan
Relief and emotion came hand in hand as Fergus Schumacher brought up his 50th career driving win at Alexandra Park on Friday night.
Guiding Dear God to victory in the Junior Driver race for trainer Wayne Anstis, Schumacher broke a dry spell in the best possible fashion, notching up a milestone.
He admitted it had been a while since he last tasted success, with his last win over a year ago aboard Matty A but described recent times as a quiet patch.
“I’m not in a racing stable anymore, so I’m driving less,” he said. “But I still have contacts if needed.”
Though he’s no longer driving as often — having stepped away from a racing stable — Schumacher has stayed close to the industry through his role at Breckon Farms, and remains ready to drive when opportunities arise.
“I do still love the driving,” Schumacher said. “There’s nothing better than competing out there — especially against the elite drivers. They’re the ones who push you to outdrive them.”
Looking ahead, the junior reinsman has a two-year-old trotting filly by What The Hill that’s starting to show some promise.
“She’s a work in progress, but she’s improved a lot this time in,” he said. “Hopefully we’ll see her step out at the end of this year or early next year. Fingers crossed she can do a nice job — we’ll just see how far she goes.”
And when it came time to mark the occasion?
“Just a couple of beers with a few friends — nothing too big.”