Hunter-based Lawyer, Marissa Dimarco has set a record by becoming the youngest person and only female on Harness Racing NSW’s (HRNSW) Board.

Marissa has taken the position of HRNSW Chairman, Chris Edwards, who had reached the maximum eight year term on the board.

Minister for Racing, Paul Toole has welcomed the appointment of Marissa and said that her involvement adds more diversity to the Board’s membership.

“As an accomplished Lawyer and former Hunter Young Achiever Award winner, Marissa will bring fresh perspectives to the HRNSW Board,” Paul said.

“It’s a real positive that Marissa is based in regional NSW, which plays such a vital role in the harness racing industry.

“I congratulate Marissa on her appointment and wish her every success in the role.”

Marissa, a harness racing enthusiast, breeder and owner, was honoured by the appointment.

“As a third generation participant in harness racing and a person with great passion and enthusiasm for our industry, I feel privileged and honoured to be appointed to the Board of HRNSW,” Marissa said.

“My sincere thanks goes to the Board and the Minister for Racing for giving me this opportunity and placing their confidence and trust in my ability to work with them to ensure a strong future and direction for the harness racing industry throughout the state.

“I understand the diverse needs of the industry and will ensure I consider all aspects of the industry from the trainers, drivers, breeders, owners, administrators and our horses. I am humbled by the appointment but feel honoured to be part of the team at HRNSW.”

Marissa has over 18 years’ experience working in the legal profession, primarily practicing in commercial, corporate and property law. She is currently a Director/shareholder and Commercial Lawyer at Osborn Law in Newcastle.

Marissa has also held memberships with the Harness Breeders NSW and NSW Standardbred Owners Associations, the Newcastle Harness Racing Club and the Hunter Valley Harness Racing Association.

One of the initiatives that Marissa is looking forward to is Team Teal – a charity campaign that involves female drivers across Australia and New Zealand wearing teal coloured pants to raise awareness of ovarian cancer.

“This is the third year HRNSW has been involved with this campaign. Last year was the first time the campaign went national and now this year it is going international with New Zealand’s involvement,” Marissa said.

“As was the case in the past two years, HRNSW will donate $200 to the Women’s Cancer Foundation during this campaign every time a female driver wins a race in NSW. Last year HRNSW donated $20,000 to the WCF from this which was matched by Tabcorp.”

Marissa’s appointment began in January 2017.

IMAGE | Marissa Dimarco celebrates the win of her horse, Shadow Runner in the Group 1 Bathurst Gold Crown in 2015 with Driver Michael Formosa, Dad Samuel Dimarco and Mum Michele Dimarco.