What do you get when a Group 1-winning trainer and a baker join forces? Newly christened racehorse, Kenny The Baker, ready to hit the track.

Three years ago trainer David Vandyke, based on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, began to stop off at Parklands Bakery, Little Mountain, to grab a coffee and a few croissants on his way to the Caloundra track each morning. Apprentice baker Kenny McKellar soon realised David was a regular customer and took the initiative to have his order prepared and waiting for him on the counter – and an unlikely friendship was formed.

Kenny, now a fully qualified baker and pastry cook, has been rewarded with seniority at work. But it’s the tip of a hat from David that really stands out.

Speaking with Racing Queensland David said he had long been keen to name a horse after his baking mate.

“Since I have known Kenny the person, I have always wanted to name a horse after him and this was the right opportunity,” he said.

“I admire the job he has done over the years and the progression he has shown.”

David said when he first met Kenny he was a “snotty-nosed”15-year-old, but he had developed into a hard-working and passionate young man.

Kenny said hearing about his namesake had made him incredibly happy.

“It made me so happy and that is all I thought about for the entire day,” he said.

“I didn’t stop talking about it for a week at the bakery, and obviously to everyone I know. I still do it. It was amazing.”

Despite the age difference of a few decades, the pair say they bonded over their early alarms and are now firm friends.

“We have got a great relationship as long as he keeps making the coffees and croissants,” David laughed.

“He is actually a bit of an inspiration because I can be having a pretty ordinary morning  and he can lift my spirits.”

Kenny The Baker had his first run on Boxing Day in 2024, with Kenny trackside watching on, and is currently being prepared for his second start.