Max Delight Confirmed for $1.25 Million The Nullarbor at Gloucester Park
NSW pacer Max Delight has been officially confirmed to start in the prestigious $1.25 million The Nullarbor race at Gloucester Park on April 17. The Maxfield family, owners of the star horse, have secured their spot by purchasing a slot in the event, marking a significant milestone after being unable to secure a berth last year.
Family's Determination and Trainer's Confidence
Dean Maxfield, representing the family, expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity. "The slot became available, and I knew Dad (Michael) would say yes, so I asked 'Aik' (trainer David Aiken) and he said, 'for sure'," Maxfield stated. He added that Aiken emphasized the urgency, noting, "he's getting on a bit, so this opportunity may not come up again." Michael Maxfield, who has raced top horses like Village Driller and Majestic Emperor, immediately agreed, with Dean describing Max Delight as "the best by far" among their horses.
Max Delight's Career and Recent Performance
The 10-year-old pacer, trained by David Aiken, was purchased for a record $295,000 and has since earned approximately $1.5 million. Despite his age, Max Delight showed strong form in a recent race, finishing fourth in the Group 2 Light Horse FFA at Menangle. "He's been a bit unlucky the old horse with the draws and runs he's had," Dean Maxfield commented, praising Aiken's management skills. "Bettors Delights, they just get better as they get older and maturer; he has that constitution of trying hard."
Homecoming and Competition in Western Australia
For the Maxfields, the race represents a homecoming, as they spent years in Western Australia, with Michael working as an underground miner in the Goldfields. Dean acknowledged the tough competition expected from local horses like Minstrel but remains optimistic. "There are quality horses over there and a different style of racing," he said. "But the tempo is always on, and we think it'll suit old Maxy."
Upcoming Races and Other Competitors
Max Delight is scheduled to compete next in the Group 3 Renshaw Cup at Penrith this Friday, drawing gate 10. Meanwhile, fellow NSW pacer Don Hugo, also confirmed for The Nullarbor, will not race until the April 17 event. Trainer-driver Luke McCarthy explained, "I'm going to keep him fresh for Perth. He won't run before it," citing past success with this strategy, such as winning the 2024 Eureka.
The anticipation builds as these top pacers prepare for one of the most lucrative events in horse racing, promising an exciting showdown at Gloucester Park.
