Widely recognised as one of Western Australia’s finest harness racing drivers, Aldo Cortopassi knows what it takes to succeed in the pacing industry.
Aldo came into the industry with no previous exposure to the sport, but built a remarkable career forged on hard work and consistency to notch more than 1500 winners. Now, he is using his vast experience to help teach the code’s next generation of stars through his role as Racing WA’s Harness Driving Mentor.
“I come from a non-industry background, which is becoming a lot more common with young drivers these days,” Aldo told Racing WA.
“I had to forge my own path, so I feel like I can give a lot of insight to these aspiring drivers who don’t have a family background to lean on.”
No stranger to success, Aldo’s long list of winners includes seven Group 1 wins, with his first victory coming in 1993 with Quick Romp, trained by his mentor, the late Frank Ellis.
“My first win was surreal, it didn’t really sink in straight away till I came off the track and everyone congratulated me,” he said.
“A lot of moments in racing come along and you don’t really get to reflect on them until afterwards because of all the hype and adrenaline going at the same time.
“It’s something I’ve always said to the young drivers – go out and enjoy it, don’t put any pressure on yourself, be safe and success will come.”
Currently the Junior Driver Training Program comprises several up-and- coming drivers. It gives them the opportunity to complete Nationally Accredited Training and help refine their skills, providing them a pathway for development to becoming a fully-licensed harness driver.
One of the program’s most promising young drivers is 18-year-old, Liam Elliot. With more than 30 winners to date, Aldo’s mentorship has given him the tools to be competitive at tracks all over the State, he said.
“Aldo is very insightful when it comes to races and he has driven a lot of winners everywhere, so we’re all really grateful to be able to learn from him,” Liam said.
“He’s had a big influence on me, especially in terms of walking me through my drives and what I did right and where I can improve.”
Up and coming driver Liam Elliot has leant on the wisdom of Aldo Cortopassi.
Throughout his career, Aldo has been associated with some incredible horses and trainers, including multiple big-race wins behind Magnificent Storm, as well as driving for Hall of Famer, Fred Kersley, whose wisdom he hopes to impart on the next generation.
“I had the opportunity to work with living legend Fred Kersley, who really showed me the importance of one percenters and being your own harshest judge,” he said.
“That’s what I’m trying to teach the young drivers, the outside noise means nothing if you’ve already acknowledged where you’ve made the mistakes and how you’re going to move on.”
Now in the twilight of his career, Aldo trains a small team of his own and still drives at a handful of meetings around the State.
As a reinsman, he’s battled his fair share of injuries, which have recently limited his driving. But the rush for that winning feeling remains, something he said is reflected in watching the next generation succeed.
“When you win, you get that adrenaline buzz and when I watch the drivers I’m training win – especially when you’ve worked really hard with them - it’s that same feeling,” he said.
“I feed off their energy. They’re young and enthusiastic and they’re all eager to get out there and win races.
“This position has honestly rejuvenated my passion for the industry.”
Josh Miller