Billinger closing in on milestone

SEASONED horseman Darren Billinger hopes a sentimental connection can pave way for another career highlight tonight.
Billinger is set to return to Globe Derby, where he will aim for his 600th training win.
Billinger will “roll the dice” in the opening event on the card where he will be represented  by Twin Connection.
By Hes Watching from broodmare gem Whatacorka, Twin Connection is a half-brother to Billinger’s former top pacer, Come On Frank.
Along with being the best Billinger has prepared, Come On Frank provided the veteran with his greatest moment within the industry.
Not long after receiving the devastating news of a fatal car accident involving his daughter Kellie, Billinger partnered Come On Frank to capture the 2011 Southern Cross Final at Globe Derby.
“Frank also won the Group One Vicbred, but I regard the Southern Cross as my biggest win as it was the one I really wanted to win after Kellie died,” Billinger said. “Now 15 years later I’m hoping his half-brother can be number 600 for me.”
A winner at Globe Derby on May 25 and June 1, Twin Connection was sent for a break following his third at the same venue on June 6.
Reported to have ‘thrived’ during his time off, the gelding has drawn to settle forward from barrier two.
“I was happy with his last few runs, but felt he would benefit from a freshen-up,” Billinger said. “The time off has done him the world of good and his work has been super.”
While Billinger’s training tally is well-documented, it is unclear how many victories he has notched as a driver, although Harness Racing Australia stats have the total at 892.
Go Midnight Rambler became Billinger’s initial training success on April 18, 1999, while Jaybee Queen was his maiden driving win in February 1980.
“The training figures are right, but I’d had about 100 or so more driving wins,” Billinger said. “I’m that old records weren’t kept properly back then.
“I can tell you though, Bruce McAvaney called my first win, which was at Kadina, and I’m positive it remains the highlight of his broadcasting days.”

• Story Paul Courts
• Photo Walter Bulyga