David Rawlings receives the Edgar Tatlow Medal

At the Ladbrokes Tasmanian Horse of the Year and Hall of Fame dinner in Hobart on Friday night, David Rawlings added another major accolade to his distinguished résumé, receiving the Edgar Tatlow Medal. The honour comes just two years after his induction into the Tasmanian Harness Racing Hall of Fame in 2024.

The medal commemorates Edgar Tatlow, the pioneering breeder whose Derby Lodge Stud at Hagley shaped the foundations of the Australian Standardbred. Tatlow’s influence was profound, producing 13 Inter Dominion winners and cementing his legacy as the grandfather of Australian harness racing breeding.

Rawlings’ own contribution to the sport spans more than five decades and is equally remarkable. Since the early 1970s he has been involved at every level—owner, breeder, trainer, driver, and administrator—and his commitment has never wavered.

A turning point came with his purchase of the mare Liza Storm, who won her first three starts for Rawlings before injury ended her racing career. Retired to stud, she produced a colt by King Kellanie—Thorate—who went on to win 70 races, including the 1990 Inter Dominion, under champion New South Wales trainer Brian Hancock.

Liza Storm’s influence didn’t end there. Her progeny Stormrate and Adorate were prolific performers, and her impact as a broodmare was recognised nationally. She was crowned Australian Broodmare of the Year three times by the AHRC: 1988 (tie), 1989, and 1990.

Rawlings trained and drove from 1975 until 2000, stepping away from his licences when elected to the Harness Racing Tasmania Board in 2001. He served until the board was dissolved in 2009 with the formation of Tasracing. His administrative involvement also included nearly 20 years with the North West Tasmania Light Harness Association and a period with the Tasmanian Standardbred Breeders Association.

His connection with the Burnie Harness Racing Club began in 1976, and through decades of dedication from Rawlings and his family, the club has grown from a small regional outfit into one of the most progressive country clubs in Australia.

The Edgar Tatlow Medal recognises individuals whose service has shaped Tasmanian harness racing. In Rawlings’ case, it acknowledges a lifetime of passion, leadership, and lasting influence

by Gary Newton