Carter Dalgety’s U.S. Journey

For Carter Dalgety, the plan was simple—head to the U.S. for six weeks, soak up the racing culture, and come home with a few new tricks. But, as these things often go, plans change. The trip, which started with Carter packing his bags after winning the Valachi Downs Young Achiever Award, stretched into a three-month adventure that saw him drive at some of the most iconic harness racing tracks in the world. Now, after 100 drives and 12 wins across some of the most famous tracks in the America, Carter is back—more seasoned, more confident, and ready for the next challenge at home.

Growing up, Carter didn’t have to look far for inspiration. Dexter Dunn, one of the best drivers New Zealand has ever produced, worked for Carter’s father, Cran Dalgety, when Carter was just a kid. To young Carter, Dexter was the ultimate example of what harness racing success looked like. Years later, that childhood admiration has evolved into a real mentorship.

“Dexter made everything easier for me,” Carter reflects on his time in the States. And it wasn’t just about learning race tactics—it was about learning the little things, the routines, the mindset, and how to prepare for those big race days. Dexter, now one of the top drivers in the U.S., showed Carter firsthand what it takes to operate at the elite level, and Carter soaked it all in.

But it wasn’t all about race results and track time. Carter’s trip had a deeper, more personal significance when he met Carter Duer, the man he was named after. Years ago, Cran Dalgety worked for Duer in the U.S., and their bond was so strong that Cran honored him by naming his son after him. Meeting Duer was more than just a moment—it was a connection to his family’s racing legacy, a reminder of the generations of influence that have shaped his journey.

But his time racing in the U.S. wasn’t just about numbers—it was about gaining confidence and understanding how to handle pressure. Now, he’s eager to apply all of that to the home track, ready to push himself further than before.

After 100 drives and 12 wins during his extended stay in the U.S., Carter is now ready to bring those lessons back to New Zealand, starting with his return to Addington this week. And the timing couldn’t be better. With the New Zealand Junior Driver Championships from October 15-18 and Cup Week fast approaching, Carter knows the stakes are high.

The U.S. trip may be behind him, but it’s clear the experience has left its mark on Carter. From driving at historic tracks to learning from some of the biggest names in the sport, this 21-year-old driver has had his horizons widened. And while the immediate focus is on Addington and Cup Week, the pull of the U.S. remains strong. “I’d love to head back at some stage,” Carter hints, but for now, New Zealand’s where his heart—and his horses—are.

Want to see how Carter’s journey unfolds? Follow along as he takes on Addington and beyond. Stay tuned to Harness Life for all the updates as he makes his mark this season.