Travis Henry and Darrell Coville will match up this Sunday night in the Rookie Vs. Champ Driver Challenge at Rideau Carleton Raceway. All proceeds from the 15-race bout support the Christina Polifroni Scholarship Fund
. Each year the NCRHHA awards children of local horsepeople with scholarship money in honour of the late Christina Polifroni, who died tragically while vacationing in Mexico.
The challenger, in the blue corner, is 21-year-old Travis Henry, who earned his spot by virtue of his 2010 Coville Cup victory. Henry is excited for the chance to showcase his driving talents, but he does not underestimate his competition.
"Coville is a legend at Rideau Carleton and I am aware that he has never been beaten in this challenge," said Travis, the son of veteran horsepeople Paul and Linda Henry. "However, I am confident in my ability, and although I am the underdog, I will give it all I have with every drive to try to knock out 'The Champ."
In the yellow and green corner, The Champ, Darrell Coville, is ready.
"I saw the skill, poise, and determination that Travis displayed in winning the Coville Cup. He is not to be underestimated," said Rideau's winningest teamster. "It will feel great to get out there on some live ones Sunday night. I am particularly excited about driving Herbie Drummond. Trainer/driver Richard Veilleux has done an outstanding job with this trotter."
Darrell's father, Orl Coville, will be on hand to witness the championship.
"Darrell can still drive at a very high level," Orl said.. "He has a remarkable skill to feel a horse, and a great set of hands. All he needs is an equal horse and he will beat you every time."
First-race post time Sunday at Rideau Carleton is 6:30 p.m.
To view the entries for Rideau's Sunday card, click here.
(NCRHHA)