Christchurch

Dexter grew up on a horse farm in Christchurch as the youngest son of trainer Robert Dunn and Rose Dunn. His older brother, John Dunn, is also a successful driver in New Zealand. Harness racing has been a family affair—his father has over 1,500 career training wins, and the sport was part of Dexter’s life from a young age. He originally aspired to play rugby (as an All Black) but switched to driving, debuting on his 17th birthday in September 2006.

Career in New Zealand and Australasia

Dexter quickly rose to dominance in New Zealand, becoming the leading driver for 10 consecutive years (roughly 2008–2017). He earned 10 New Zealand Driver of the Year titles and racked up thousands of wins, including major races in Australasia. By 2020, he had surpassed 3,100 career victories worldwide and was the youngest person inducted into the Addington Harness Hall of Fame.

He is nicknamed “Double D” and is known for his smooth, effective driving style that gets the best out of horses.

Move to North America and U.S. Success

In 2018–2019, Dexter made the leap to North American racing, initially staying with trainer Chris Ryder. He achieved immediate success, winning over 450 races and more than $11 million in purses in 2019 alone (including driving stars like Bettor’s Wish). He was named U.S. Harness Writers’ Association (Dan Patch) Driver of the Year in 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2024—five times in six years.

Dexter has won numerous elite races, including 23 Breeders Crown finals (a record six in 2024), and has driven top performers like, Bettor's Wish (HOF), Twin B Joe Fresh, Jiggy Jog S, Bulldog Hanover.............

Extended Family & Racing Legacy

The Dunn family is deeply embedded in New Zealand harness racing. The Dunn stable operates as a family unit, with mother Rosie....... father Robert training, John driving/training, and now the next generation (Jacob) coming through.

Dexter considers the Ryder family (trainer Chris Ryder and wife Nicola) as his "American family" — they've supported him since he moved to the U.S. in 2018, and there's a long-standing connection between the Dunns and Ryders going back to New Zealand.

Dex on his racing journey...

More...

5x

Dan Patch Driver of the Year

10 Consecutive

New Zealand Driver Premierships

23

Breeders Crown wins

1

World Driving Championship

2

Mohawk Millions

Wins Worldwide

4,000 +