Harry now tells his life story
He has been called the Peter Pan of New Zealand racing, ridden more than 2000 winners in a career spanning the decades and now Noel Harris is finally telling his story in the written form.
The champion jockey may be in the twilight of his career but at 57 he is not ready to retire just yet – being quoted recently as saying that he was still riding winners and had some good rides coming up next season.
However, Harris, has teamed with local racing journalist Wally O’Hearn to produce Harry – The Ride of My Life and the Rotary Club of Matamata along with the Matamata Racing Club and Paper Plus are giving locals the chance to attend the book’s launch.
Rotary Club of Matamata president Graeme Guilford said the event to be held at the racing club on Thursday, August 16 would give locals an opportunity to come along and hear from Noel Harris.
“Racing commentator Tony Lee will be interviewing Noel for a period of time and there will be an opportunity for questions and a book signing,” Mr Guilford said.
“Noel is a very well-known figure in the local racing community and we are hoping that a large number of people will want to attend and add their support to this event.”
Mr Guilford said the local Rotary club had got in behind the launch of the book as it was a community-based event featuring a prominent member of the town. Previously the club had also hosted a similar public launch for champion jockey Lance O’Sullivan’s book.
A percentage of the ticket price would go to the Rotary club and be used for various Rotary projects, he said.
Tickets cost $10 and are available from Paper Plus and the evening will commence at 6pm. Contact Graeme on 888 7694.