Break abroad lights fire in Buchanan

Experienced reinsman Tom Buchanan says an extended break from harness racing has given him the drive needed to return to the sulky.

The 26-year-old made a comeback to harness racing in October after taking indefinite leave to travel to Canada earlier this year.

While abroad, Buchanan worked at Canadian thoroughbred trainer John LeBlanc’s stable where he helped prepare star colt Mike for this year’s Queen’s Plate at the Woodbine Racetrack on July 3.

“The experience was something completely different and new,” Buchanan said.

“It was something I really enjoyed and I might look at getting into it the future, but right now I am happy working with the trotters.”

Since returning home, Buchanan has been based full-time at close friend Justin Prentice’s stable in Capel.

Buchanan secured his first winner for Prentice with three-year-old filly Betshes Precious in the $7000 Westbred Three-Year-Old Fillies Pace (2185m) at the Pinjarra Paceway on December 12.

Buchanan said he was glad to be working closely alongside one of his best mates, while finding success on the track.

“It was my first winner back, so it was good to be back in the winners circle,” Buchanan said.

“It was amazing how different it felt getting back into it all.

“I am really happy to be back and working with JP – it’s been great.”

Buchanan said Prentice had many up-and-coming two-year-olds with the ability to compete.