Home is where the heart is

HOME (and loyalty) is where the heart is.

That's the philosophy Gaita Pullicino is adopting heading into next week's Australian Drivers' Championship.

Although raised in Victoria, Pullicino has called South Australia home in recent years and will contest the tournament as a 'Croweater'.

Pullicino will form Team South Australia with star reinsman Wayne Hill.

"I'm going into it as a South Australian and am proud to represent the state," Pullicino said. "Home is where the heart is and my heart is in SA.

"I just hope I can make the state proud and help bring the title back here."

Overall, a dozen drivers - two from each state - will clash over 10 heats at Globe Derby on December 29 for the honour of the nation's best for 2024.

"I'm really looking forward to the night," Pullicino said. "To drive against a group of Australia's best reinsmen and women is a treat.

"I've raced against most of them here and there, but never on a night like this...it really is a standard above and beyond and a great chance to showcase just how good we are in South Australia."

Hill previously mentioned his desire to see the tournament attract a big crowd to create a huge atmosphere during the twilight Sunday program, with Pullicino echoing the statement.

"It will be great for the drivers and those coming along if we get a decent crowd," Pullicino said. "Big crowds get us pumped, while also providing the sport a chance to showcase the joys of harness racing to a wider crowd.

"Some family fun on the grass and a wide variety of food vans for example will really enhance the night and make people want to come back for more."