Dunn Scores First Group One with NZB Standardbred Graduate

Hailing from one of New Zealand harness racing’s most decorated family’s, Jacob Dunn had plenty to live up to when commencing his driving career, and he has shown that he is more than up to the task.

The talented reinsman, who is the son of top driver John Dunn and Jenna Dunn, who trains alongside his grandfather Robert Dunn, has won 23 races in the sulky, highlighted by his breakthrough elite-level victory behind NZB Standardbred graduate Daisy Bay (NZ) (Downbytheseaside) in last Friday’s Group One Delightful Lady Classic (1700m) at Alexandra Park.

Dunn was duly rapt to get the win, particularly in the colours of his grandfather and mother.

“I am over the moon, words can’t really describe it, especially to do it in RJ’s (Robert Dunn, grandfather) colours is even more surreal,” he said.

“I am very privileged to be able to drive in races like this. I have had plenty of help to get me to where I am at the moment, so a massive thanks to everyone who has got me to where I am.”

Dunn got the perfect trip in the trail throughout and was able to sneak up the passing lane with Daisy Bay to score by a neck over Mhai Jackie Do (NZ) (Downbytheseaside).

“We were able to hold up from the perfect draw in one and we were able to hand up to the right one,” Dunn said. “We know that she has got that speed and we were able to use that up the lane and get there. It worked out perfectly.

“She has got a great attitude and is lovely to do anything with, she is just and absolute pleasure to have in the stables.”

Bred by Tardina Stud, Daisy Bay is out of three-win mare Little Miss Perfect (NZ) (Bettor’s Delight), a half-sister to multiple group One winner Chase Auckland (NZ) (Auckland Reactor).

Daisy Bay was offered through Tardina Stud’s 2025 National Yearling Sale draft at Karaka where she was purchased by Diamond Racing Stables for $20,000.

Daisy Bay has now won both of her starts to date and has accrued more than $64,000 in prizemoney.