Western Australia

[Messenger]

10yo Whozideawasthis drew 1 last week and was $6.50 when he beat Chicago Bull
Last night he drew 12 but stuck to the pegs and beats the champ (last) again and pays $85.80 WA

http://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP280521#GPM28052101

[Messenger]

An improved run 3rd up by the Bull after drawing 1 but I couldn't have taken red figures much less $1.18 after his last two
I thought the winner may have been the danger but that was probably because I have a bit of Vic bias, $14 not bad for 2nd favourite

http://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP040621#GPM04062104

[Mighty Atom]

Ross Olivieri has improved Major Times out of sight doesn't even look like the same horse that raced in Vic no head check races with his head on his chest.

[Messenger]

He had a fantastic Gp racer over here but kept finding one to knock him off

[Messenger]

First Rock N Roll World and now Follow The Stars is leaving WA to stand in NSW

https://harnesslink.com/australia/follow-the-stars-to-medowie-lodge/

[KTQ]

Ross Olivieri has improved Major Times out of sight doesn't even look like the same horse that raced in Vic no head check races with his head on his chest.

They got him off his knees with shoe wings

[Messenger]

GP abandoned - no big 2yo race :(

[Showgrounds]

I cannot recall a meeting ever being washed out at GP. It's belting down in Perth at the moment.

[Messenger]

Bunbury has had far more rain than Perth - well over an inch, plus they had over half an inch yesterday and yet the track looks perfect tonight (plenty of puddles on the infield)
Just looked again and most of yesterday's rain fell between 8.30am and 9am this morning (9am is when Oz weather bureaus empty their guages) SO Bunbury has had over 45mm in 10hrs
This must be a model track
I think the thing with GP was the fact that they had ¾ inch in half an hour !

[Showgrounds]

19mm in a half hour could have been enough to damage the track, probably rutted or washed out part of it.

[Messenger]

Freo Cup $300BigOnes 10.52 AEDST tomorrow night

http://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP210122#GPM21012204

[Messenger]

I am guessing the 40° forecast resulted in all races being put back two
It got to 41.5°
Cup is now listed as 11.45 AEDST
(I'll read about it in the morning)

[aussiebreno]

Patronus Star a win for the ages in the WA Derby last night. Major Martini can count himself unlucky after doing a bit of work but Patronus Star just looked to have no hope stuck on the pegs getting dragged back behind tiring horses with no gaps appearing.

Nearly a case of deja vu tonight for Patronus Star

[Messenger]

It was a sensational finish by the Star - he was the equivalent of 7 wide around the bend
It would have been so good to see him get up (as 8 out 10 of the night's winners were the leader)

http://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP210122#GPM21012204

[Messenger]

Keep the replay rolling after the finish line and you will see Gary Hall Jnr (Chicago Bull) understandably has a lot to say to Aldo Cortopassi (Magnificent Storm) who despite the runs did not even beat him by a metre

Anne was not that far away from pulling off a major coup after sending Hurricane Harley over to WA

We don't know what Vampiro may have had to offer as he was checked when trying to get clear

[Mighty Atom]

Patronas Star has come down the outside like a "Japanese steam train" I think Japanese bullet train may have been more apt.

[aussiebreno]

Keep the replay rolling after the finish line and you will see Gary Hall Jnr (Chicago Bull) understandably has a lot to say to Aldo Cortopassi (Magnificent Storm) who despite the runs did not even beat him by a metre

Anne was not that far away from pulling off a major coup after sending Hurricane Harley over to WA

We don't know what Vampiro may have had to offer as he was checked when trying to get clear

Hall Jnr can say what he like but (with the benefit of a TV screen) once Storm came charging and got the death there was never any death on offer. Storm flogged Bull last start and start before that Storm was clear run of the race and beat home Bull. If we go back to 3rd Sept and Storm sat outside Minstrel and had the audacity to run right away from him. Cortopassi has every right to drive Storm like the best horse in the race.

[Messenger]

$99.50 on the local tote for Wild West getting up in the WA Pacing Cup for trainer Gary Hall Snr but the run of the race was stablemate Chicago Bull who was nabbed on the line and beaten into third by HFHD x HD after spending most of the 2936m in the death (Of course I am no driver but I am not sure why Jnr had to leave the 1x1 so early to go to the death - controlling the race?)
While Gary Hall Snr trained 1st and 3rd the race belonged to the Suvaljko family with drivers Callan and niece Emily filling the quinella

http://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP040222#GPM04022204

[aussiebreno]

Slow tempo not as much sprint in the old boys legs its either go death on a slow speed or have to sit 3 wide the last lap giving Minstrel cover. I think Hall did the right thing.

Bull was fantastic but given the slow early speed I think Magnificent Storm to come from near last and 3-4-5 wide was the run of the race. To run past Freo Cup quinella in Minstrel and Patronus Star shows how massive it was. Given dist covered he would have gone close to 54 his actual last 800m covered of 2950m. Quinny probably the only horse who could have ever won from there.

[Messenger]

I missed the Magnificent Storm's run Brendan (I was watching without audio) so I will have to have another look and I can appreciate your reasoning for Hall's drive

[Mighty Atom]

Stewards have adjourned an inquiry into the first three horses in the cup will be interesting to find out what that's all about.

[Mighty Atom]

Alta Christiano had four winners at GP last night. What a champ with his Christian Cullen bloodlines he would have had a huge impact at stud for many years.

[Mighty Atom]

So Wildwest is heading for Sydney I've always thought the horse would go over there. Probably to be trained by B McCarthy. I think he will really show his potential at Menangle.

[Messenger]

Alta Christiano had four winners at GP last night. What a champ with his Christian Cullen bloodlines he would have had a huge impact at stud for many years.

He is sadly missed Rod

[Messenger]

Slow tempo not as much sprint in the old boys legs its either go death on a slow speed or have to sit 3 wide the last lap giving Minstrel cover. I think Hall did the right thing.

Bull was fantastic but given the slow early speed I think Magnificent Storm to come from near last and 3-4-5 wide was the run of the race. To run past Freo Cup quinella in Minstrel and Patronus Star shows how massive it was. Given dist covered he would have gone close to 54 his actual last 800m covered of 2950m. Quinny probably the only horse who could have ever won from there.

Having watched it properly now, I would still rate the Bulls run the best, followed by Minstrel and Magnificent Storm.

[aussiebreno]

Bull and Storm differing runs so hard to compare but Storm and Minstrel both had to go 3 wide, Storm then 4 and 5 wide from 2 lengths further back and ran past him.

[Messenger]

Yeah but Minstrel had no cover for a fair time, it's a coin toss :cool:

[Messenger]

You can see the raised arm of celebration of Emily Suvaljko (no.1) going the early crow in the WA Pacing Cup some distance from the line. Costly?

[KTQ]

You can see the raised arm of celebration of Emily Suvaljko (no.1) going the early crow in the WA Pacing Cup some distance from the line. Costly?
21 day suspension costly.
I am not a fan of celebrating over the line personally and this is but one example why

[Messenger]

PP along with myself thought WA harness racing was one of the healthiest states but this is not so according to him this morning
I have done a little research and suspect he may be right which I will put in my next post as I cannot put 2 pics in one post

We all know that the punting trend has seen the dogs pass us and PP's pie graph suggests that their wagering turnover is double ours in WA
So for us to receive more funding than them means we are being massively subsidized - something that the dogs are not going to allow forever

[Messenger]

The attached image is from the 2021 RWWA Annual Report
You can see that harness received $37.6m to the greyhounds $25.9m

https://issuu.com/racingaheadwa/docs/annual_report_2021_vfa_lowres

[Messenger]

I noticed that there were only 2 horses in the APG fillies heat last Tuesday
Does this mean the final next Friday is a combined fillies and colts?
The 6 horse colts heat went 1.55.5
The 2 horse fillies heat went 2.06.7
Both winners by Huntsville

I just watched the replay of the 2 horse race - it would have been interesting if Madeleine Young had had a crack at the fav a bit earlier

[Messenger]

Maybe PP is reading too much into it but it is an interesting one
Richard Bell calls the plunge horse Our Star Watch No.1 as going straight to the lead at the start BUT it hadn't yet, so did he know that Dad on No.1 the big drifter was simply going to let it happen
Maybe it was just predictive race calling but PP feels it needs to be investigated for the sake of Integrity

Although the notorious Lindsay Harper needs to be the real centre of an investigation as No.1 blew from $1.40 out to $3 while No.2 firmed from $9 to $2

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP030622#GPM03062210

Watch until the very end. Interesting how Richie Bell more or less starts questioning the drive by Harper - particularly about the start

Surely there has to be an inquiry about the race

[Showgrounds]

How come Bell calls Our Starwatch as going straight to the lead when it had done no such thing? There would be no questions asked if he was calling exclusively for radio but there is no delay between what he is calling and what we are seeing.

Lindsay Harper had a strangle hold on his horse coming out the gate and allowed the winner to cross early and fend off the early challenge from the $91 shot. From there it was a procession and Bell called it that way. He also gave a wake-up call to the stewards in the last lap, reminding them it was the biggest plunge in many months. He then critiqued Lindsay Harper's drive for them after the race. The facts are there for the stewards to follow up on. Do they have the appetite?

[Messenger]

RACE 2 – QUAYSIDE TRANSPORT PACE DIV.1 (2130MS)

MIDDLEPAGE (L. Harper) – When interviewed in regards to not holding the lead from his inside barrier, driver advised the gelding had not started for a period of 3 weeks and he was mindful of its condition going into the race. He was also aware not to over-drive the gelding in the early stages as it had broken gait at previous starts when driven in that manner. He further stated the gelding had every opportunity to finish in first placing after obtaining clear running on straightening.

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/stewards-reports/stewards-reports-detail/?mc=GP030622

WA can now be declared a ZERO Integrity Enforcement state

[Messenger]

PP questions whether R7 at GP last night was on the up and up
The winner (backed in from long odds) got a charmed run but to suggest GHJnr knew it would come seems absurd to me as the leader and the sit horse who both came away from the pegs - couldn't have known he was there (able to get the 5 spot)

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP160822#GPC16082201

[Messenger]

Good luck to Gloucester Park's 373 voting members - 187 of them need to get it right

If completed, the land sale will trigger a redevelopment that includes Gloucester Theatre - a new tourism, hospitality and community facility located on the eastern side of the track near the foot of Matagarup Bridge. Gloucester Theatre and its surrounds will host up to 4,000 spectators and feature dual views over the track, and across the Swan River to Optus Stadium. It will also provide a dedicated member area and member parking facilities, plus a range of entertainment and hospitality experiences that will activate the Swan River seven days a week

https://www.harness.org.au/media-room/news-article/?news_id=53668

[Messenger]

WA to have their own $1m Slot Race - The Nullarbor

https://nationaltrotguide.com.au/1million-slot-race-announced/?fbclid=IwAR0q2bb1ooN8no4EXR7m-KunB9vFF8eObRuPgI_hXXaXsFrhFFvxZDkQ78I

[Messenger]

Taking The Miki wins the $150k Gp1 WA Oaks

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP141022#GPM14102203

[aussiebreno]

Doo sits in the chair in just about the slowest Vic Cup ever...new ID and NZ Cup fave.

Smokin Romans sits in the chair in what was effectively a dawdle and sprint home...Caulfield Cup fave.

Magnificent Storm sits in the chair after being 4wide early against last years Derby runner up/G Halls best horse in the stable...3yo filly gets the headline! ;) :o

Read a couple times over past 12 months trainer was keen for ID but article during the week suggested he may be cooling with the big WA races just a month after. Shame for fans but cant blame him with so much money on his doorstep.

[aussiebreno]

Storm won't come to ID which is a shame because he could have jagged a race where he isnt required to do all the work to ensure leader doesnt get it too easy. Hopefully he improves a length before the Cups because he deserves to be winning snd not running a place behind whoever draws to lead.

Barrier 1 stats dont read bad last night. 3 wins, 5 2nds and a galloper that was $2. Makes betting easy but isn't fair racing.

[Messenger]

Tricky Miki had to do a bit of work in the Derby and thus showed he was a deserving favourite and winner

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP041122#GPM04112203

[Mighty Atom]

Magnificent Storm is not the unbeatable force many had thought. He will lose more races if the driving tactics are to charge around the field and sit up outside the leader he is no Pure Steel.

Can anyone explain what on earth has happened to Hurricane Harley? he can't run a message at the moment if I was the owner I'd be looking at another trainer G Hall Snr comes to mind.

[Messenger]

I have always thought that Harley was better suited to the shorter distances but he may not have come up this time and may need to be tipped out again - he was out a long time though. Maybe Anne can enlighten us

[aussiebreno]

Magnificent Storm is not the unbeatable force many had thought. He will lose more races if the driving tactics are to charge around the field and sit up outside the leader he is no Pure Steel.

Can anyone explain what on earth has happened to Hurricane Harley? he can't run a message at the moment if I was the owner I'd be looking at another trainer G Hall Snr comes to mind.
Certainly not unbeatable but he is the top seed and with even luck wins the FFAs. Everything else is just taking their turn running places (Patronus at his best with that devastating sprint is an exception) with a good draw but Storm is the only one who can win/place from anywhere. Any PBD race he is going to keep drawing bad, but being the top seed they need to put him into the race. Would rather they try and win and find out exactly where his bottom is, rather than sit back and let the leader have it all their own way on a leader dominated track. Now is the time to test him out to see exactly how much better than the others he is, rather than get to WA/Freo Cup and be left wondering how much extra work he can do and still win. Lose the battle but win the war type stuff.

Was surprised by how short he was and actually backed Patronus Star due to the price, but all things being equal Storm is still the superior horse.

[aussiebreno]

BOOOOM ! Pure Steel like performance and being driven so aggressively and putting pay to them will no doubt scare a few drivers into giving him an easier time in races going forward.

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP111122#GPM11112205

[Mighty Atom]

Huge performance from MS but I have to say it was a huge turnaround from his start the week before. A capitulating 4th over 2536m where the winner rated 1:57:3 to a huge showing same distance rating 1:56:4. I will concede the horse may have had an off performance the week before.

[Messenger]

The $150k Westral Mares Classic was run tonight
I am wondering how the First Four paid so well - $1,289 with the top 3 picks and a $16 pop
and how there came to be $53,461 in the pool (4 times the preceding race)

[aussiebreno]

Magnificent Storm in the Inter would have been something. Will be a travesty if he doesnt win the WA and Freo Cups. Wins again last night. Nothing was going to get near him once he crossed.

[Messenger]

$81 pop Himself wins the $200k Gp1 Nugget

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP161222#GPM16122204

[Showgrounds]

$81 pop Himself wins the $200k Gp1 Nugget

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP161222#GPM16122204

Trifecta paid a lousy $3,731.20 on the Victorian TAB. Throw Machnificent into the first 4 at $8.50 and the dividend becomes a very tasty $93,518.40!

[aussiebreno]

That race had it all!

[Mighty Atom]

Himself broke Vampiro's track record 1:54. I couldn't believe the driving tactics on Lavra Joe pulling out from the one, one to sit in the breeze, especially at such a fast pace. I noticed the drive was queried.

[aussiebreno]

Himself broke Vampiro's track record 1:54. I couldn't believe the driving tactics on Lavra Joe pulling out from the one, one to sit in the breeze, especially at such a fast pace. I noticed the drive was queried.

Hopefully he can bring up his 5000th winner soon. 4945 wins at 16% strike rat (according to HRA) put it at about 30906 drives. I would think 30900 of them have been better than the one last night!

[Messenger]

Hopefully he can bring up his 5000th winner soon. 4945 wins at 16% strike rat (according to HRA) put it at about 30906 drives. I would think 30900 of them have been better than the one last night!

True but Pinny Tiger did not want to hand up and consequently was beaten 182m

They weren't bad odds for a horse that had won 7 and finished second 3 times from 11 starts since imported from NZ

[aussiebreno]

True but Pinny Tiger did not want to hand up and consequently was beaten 182m

They weren't bad odds for a horse that had won 7 and finished second 3 times from 11 starts since imported from NZ

Yep bad drive also. Both set up an exciting race though.

[Showgrounds]

Hopefully he can bring up his 5000th winner soon. 4945 wins at 16% strike rat (according to HRA) put it at about 30906 drives. I would think 30900 of them have been better than the one last night!

Chris Lewis passed 5000 wins years ago. Current records only go back to the 1984/85 season, when he was driving Village Kid. He stared driving a decade earlier, his first big win being on Carclew in the 1976 Inter grand final. History (according to HRA) is bunk.

[aussiebreno]

Chris Lewis passed 5000 wins years ago. Current records only go back to the 1984/85 season, when he was driving Village Kid. He stared driving a decade earlier, his first big win being on Carclew in the 1976 Inter grand final. History (according to HRA) is bunk.

Thanks for correction.

Would appear possibly closer to 6000.

https://harnessracingupdate.com/2022/08/28/aussie-driving-icon-chris-lewis-not-close-to-retirement/

[Messenger]

Chris Lewis passed 5000 wins years ago. Current records only go back to the 1984/85 season, when he was driving Village Kid. He stared driving a decade earlier, his first big win being on Carclew in the 1976 Inter grand final. History (according to HRA) is bunk.

Also thanks for the alert Trev, I should have guessed this as I am always complaining how the horse performance records are not to be trusted until the 1990's

[Messenger]

It is only 6 weeks until the $MILLION Nullarbor

[KTQ]

Chris Lewis passed 5000 wins years ago. Current records only go back to the 1984/85 season, when he was driving Village Kid. He stared driving a decade earlier, his first big win being on Carclew in the 1976 Inter grand final. History (according to HRA) is bunk.

He got his 5000th winner driving our horse Im The Best on Dec 17 2019. I presume Alan Parker worked it out and it wasn't going by HRA.
5000 + 24 this year + 144 (2022) + 126 (2021). 2019/2020 is where it gets murky because they changed the season length. Youd need to add up the remainder of his wins for 2019 and then 2020s. So he'd be around 5400-5500 right now

[Messenger]

PP is right that you would be very worried if you have backed Spirit Of St Louis to win The Nullarbor after that super disappointing effort last night

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP070423#GPM07042306

[aussiebreno]

He was probably sub par, but it also shows how hard Storm has had it past 12 months chasing down leaders on a leader dominated track with no other horses in the field capable of softening up leader.

[Showgrounds]

He was probably sub par, but it also shows how hard Storm has had it past 12 months chasing down leaders on a leader dominated track with no other horses in the field capable of softening up leader.

"Probably sub-par" is a good summation of the horse as I believe people seriously over inflate its ability. Great miler who is made for Menangle, he is shaping as another career changing victim of the Gloucester Park circle of death.

[aussiebreno]

"Probably sub-par" is a good summation of the horse as I believe people seriously over inflate its ability. Great miler who is made for Menangle, he is shaping as another career changing victim of the Gloucester Park circle of death.

He's gone 1.54.8 over 2680m in the Blacks a Fake, won Cups including Ballarat Cup and 2nd in a Hunter Cup (beating Amazing Dream in both). Not a case of being a miler, just needs things his way to win at top level.

[aussiebreno]

Magnificent Storm finally gets a gate in a big WA feature. Whereas against the WA contingent he would have been overs at $1.20, he has Betterzippit and Spirit of St Louis to contend with. I couldn't imagine Zip not having a crack for the lead, could be fireworks early and there is a few capable of running on over the top. Not sure why they've programmed it 2nd last race for though. Been consistently having their feature around race 4 or race 5 lately.

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP140423#GPM14042305

[aussiebreno]

https://www.harness.org.au/media-room/news-article/?news_id=60683

Managing owner Rob Tomlinson couldn’t hide his excitement after drawing the barrier himself. “At last,” he boomed. “This horse has had the worst run of barriers you could ever imagine."

You can say that again Rob!

[Messenger]

10.54 AEST tonight
(just before my newly set bedtime :D)

[Messenger]

It would be typical Jason Grimson to win this tonight with Betterzippit

[Messenger]

I don't know the horse's racing pattern as I cannot claim to keep abreast of WA but I thought the fav has often been forced to death seat, if so why didn't Aldo want to lead - SOS was always going to hand up after that early burn

Two from the East/NSW come across and take home $675k of the Million (not strictly speaking due to slots etc)
Whether they proved horses from the East are superior or just that drivers from the East are, I am not sure (one night only - I know)

Another 'miracle' from Grimson

[Showgrounds]

I don't know the horse's racing pattern as I cannot claim to keep abreast of WA but I thought the fav has often been forced to death seat, if so why didn't Aldo want to lead - SOS was always going to hand up after that early burn

They used to give a magnum of champagne for the drive of the night. For Aldo Cortapassi, a stale bottle of a substance in a beer bottle, preferably filled from under an old garbardine overcoat for authenticity, would be an appropriate award for one of the worst drives ever.

[aussiebreno]

They used to give a magnum of champagne for the drive of the night. For Aldo Cortapassi, a stale bottle of a substance in a beer bottle, preferably filled from under an old garbardine overcoat for authenticity, would be an appropriate award for one of the worst drives ever.

Here here. Pathetic drive!

[Messenger]

Having the greyhounds Sandgroper and trots Nullarbor on the same night seemed a little strange to me

Interesting that Sportsbet took a slot in today's Quokka and the Sandgroper but NOT in the Nullarbor

[Messenger]

I didn't think much of the callers post finish rehearsed 'chandeliers and specks of gold' spiel - it sounded too scripted

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP140423#GPM14042305

[Mighty Atom]

They used to give a magnum of champagne for the drive of the night. For Aldo Cortapassi, a stale bottle of a substance in a beer bottle, preferably filled from under an old garbardine overcoat for authenticity, would be an appropriate award for one of the worst drives ever.

Absolutely, Cortapassi had every chance to get out before Lavra Joe boxed him in. In saying that the locals were outclassed in every department firstly by a pair of young gun drivers with vastly superior horses. They are reporting this one million dollar race is going to be a permanent feature I hope not because the locals don't deserve it although, on last night's performances, they will be fighting for the lower end of the prize money if they are lucky.

[Messenger]

It is amazing when you realize that Betterzippit had only ever won a $50k race before last night's $1M race
The biggest race he had run in was the Schweppes Sprint ($100k) where he ran 9th behind SOS
To compare last nights two slot races. Betterzippit was in a 2700m race v Copy That on October 28. Copy That was giving him 60m start

[aussiebreno]

It is amazing when you realize that Betterzippit had only ever won a $50k race before last night's $1M race
The biggest race he had run in was the Schweppes Sprint ($100k) where he ran 9th behind SOS
To compare last nights two slot races. Betterzippit was in a 2700m race v Copy That on October 28. Copy That was giving him 60m start

I was looking at the prizemoney earnt of the field during the week. A lot had won a big race like a WA Derby and WA/Freo Cup so were >$300K whereas Zippit was $128K. $76K of that in past 6 starts.

The owner has put a lot of money into harness racing over past few years so hopefully that continues and the money gets circulated within the industry.

[Messenger]

Looking at the race again and reading the Stewards Report it simply has to be one of the Worst big race drives of all time. He said,

"he believed his best option was to shift wider in the back straight as he anticipated being able to get clear,"

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/stewards-reports/stewards-reports-detail/?mc=GP140423

He must be prone to living in fantasy land - oh yeah leave it until the back straight as that will give me the easiest run.
It was a $Million race and he showed ZERO INITIATIVE
It is so bad it is almost suspicious

The pace was not really on early and he says he wanted to lead - that is when he had to do something

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP140423#GPM14042305

[Showgrounds]

Looking at the race again and reading the Stewards Report it simply has to be one of the Worst big race drives of all time. He said,

"he believed his best option was to shift wider in the back straight as he anticipated being able to get clear,"

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/stewards-reports/stewards-reports-detail/?mc=GP140423

He must be prone to living in fantasy land - oh yeah leave it until the back straight as that will give me the easiest run.
It was a $Million race and he showed ZERO INITIATIVE
It is so bad it is almost suspicious

The pace was not really on early and he says he wanted to lead - that is when he had to do something

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP140423#GPM14042305

He should have kept shifting wider down the back straight. Into the Swan River with all the punters' hopes.

[Messenger]

Congratulations to Katie (KTQ) as her family/Dad won the $50k Diamond Classic at GP tonight with 3yo filly Brulee = Vincent x Russian Rocket
I hope you got some of that $17 Katie

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP190523#GPM19052303

[Showgrounds]

Congratulations to Katie (KTQ) as her family/Dad won the $50k Diamond Classic at GP tonight with 3yo filly Brulee = Vincent x Russian Rocket
I hope you got some of that $17 Katie

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP190523#GPM19052303

Ditto. An extremely consistent filly, her record from her last 12 starts is 3 wins, 5 seconds, four thirds. Three wide without cover for the last lap was a supper-tough effort, suggesting she is getting better with a bit of age. I've kept my eye on her since she was sold at the NZ on-line weanling sale, the three Vincent fillies sold all developing into nice 3yo's.

A good night for Vincent 3yo fillies with Vinette blowing her opponents away at Newcastle and Joan's Rising Star a tough maiden win at Addington.

[KTQ]

Ditto. An extremely consistent filly, her record from her last 12 starts is 3 wins, 5 seconds, four thirds. Three wide without cover for the last lap was a supper-tough effort, suggesting she is getting better with a bit of age. I've kept my eye on her since she was sold at the NZ on-line weanling sale, the three Vincent fillies sold all developing into nice 3yo's.

A good night for Vincent 3yo fillies with Vinette blowing her opponents away at Newcastle and Joan's Rising Star a tough maiden win at Addington.

She sure is consistent. She was impressing early here in trackwork but fell off our radar a little. She's starting to get it together albeit with a nasty habit of switching off when she gets in front (case in point her Diamond heat) but Deni drove her like a charm and followed instructions to a tee. About a month ago I was telling Dad she'd been in work long enough, needed a spell and she had NO chance of winning the Diamond, let alone a country race and he laughed at me and told me she was going to win :rolleyes: :D What a dumbass I am eh?

Alice, as we call her, has bad stifle lock unfortunately which doesn't help her cause but she's a beautiful natured girl. No nasty, sensible and trustworthy. The best kind of girl, and she now gets a ribbon browband :)

[Showgrounds]

Great stuff Katie. The three Vincent fillies bought at the NZ weanling sales were your filly, Stickifingers (from Kim Maguire) a first start winner in NZ and Turn The Page, who should have won her first start at Addington but locked wheels with the leader when she ducked out in the sprint lane. Expect to see her in WA shortly.

It's remarkable that all three have made the races let alone won or placed. The three of them required time and patience and, having received both, are rewarding their connections. A simple formula that doesn't work with all horses but seems to strike a chord with Vincent stock.

[Messenger]

From PP this morning :(

[Showgrounds]

Yes, the whole Gloucester Park land deal worried me from the first time I heard of it. I currently do a bit of work calling tenders and letting contracts for a WA organization, which has been my stock-in-trade for decades.

The refusal of the Committee to go to the market and see what the market has to offer reeks of nepotism and the valuation of the land - a short walk into Perth's CBD and surrounded by park land - always seemed the bargain of the century to me.

[Messenger]

Yep, when you think about it - $10 million for 14 acres of river frontage is bloody ridiculous ($2m a yr for 5yrs way worse)
You could not get 1 acre of Brighton beach foreshore for $10m

[aussiebreno]

De Campo 3/3 on Magnificent Storm. Pity the switch wasn't made earlier.

[Messenger]

PP very critical of Chris Voak regarding the last race at GP on Tuesday
but IMO if the stable fancy their other runner over the favourite (resuming) so be it
One was backed into to $2.10 while the other drifted out to $1.80

What I am more critical of is the way that no other runner or runners went around the favourite who was angling for a sit when he found himself in the death. In that regard PP is right - the race was a boatie - the first 2/3rds of the race was a crawl. I am not familiar with the horses, so maybe they are as bad a lot as they seemed and not capable of better. The sit horse putting its foot into the sulky of the leader did not give us a chance to see if it might have been able to make an impression

The drifting favourite could have been expected to do better for although resuming it had won a SS trial faster than Tuesday's time (at the faster Pinjara track) and is a 2.5 sec faster horse than the stablemate

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP130623#GPC13062311

[Jasper]

In two weeks we are commencing a series of 1200 mtre races at Pinjarra, about 4 per meeting every two weeks. I would be interested in any comments about the recent Victorian experience especially with regards to participation numbers, room for improvement, impact on horses etc.

I watched a few replays from Melton and my immediate impression was that they don’t seem like a good look for the sport re quite a few drivers vigorously harassing horses to go faster/keep up a long way from home. Is this a good way to increase interest/revenue with the wider population or are we further damaging our social license of racing horses for sport?

[Messenger]

Hi Daniel, I find they are over too quick but that is what they (Sky) want. I remember with more affection the ultra long races that used to be run at the Showgrounds Melbourne than these sprints. We have had blocks of four 1200m races at a few Wednesday Melton meets of late but the 1200's have been around for a while as the following link shows

https://www.harnessracingforum.com/showthread.php?14655-Mercury-80-new-sprint-series-!&highlight=mercury

I cannot see how they would convert anyone to our code. IMO we need to bring back handicap races (Stand Starts are probably the only way) to make people marvel at the distances that the better horses can make up on the front horses. We all know of Cathy Freeman and the Sydney Olympics but for unforgettable you cannot beat a handicap - check out this link

https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sport/swoop/stawell-gift-watch-cathy-freeman-when-she-won-the-400m-in-1995-and-1996/news-story/adfabb20e86813370ba783186b7792e6

[Jasper]

I agree with you re standing starts. We only have one per meeting usually unfortunately (two if there is a totters stand). Probably the best stand of the season that I know of (in WA) was won by Lamandier at Pinjarra which came of 20, galloped and got up late in a mile rate of 1.57.6 over 2600. Excellent race.

It will be interesting to see the number of nominations for the Lightening Lap races. Barring bad fortune our horse will be racing in the standing start race on the first day of the LL’s so I will see them first hand.

Wow re Freeman. Forgot how good she was.

Thanks for your response.

[aussiebreno]

Mister Smartee $7win/$2.20 place for WA Derby. It seems a race in two with Never Ending. Those odds are juicy

[Jasper]

Interesting. I thought Lusaka and Mimi’s Beach were exceptional last night, especially Lusaka. They both seem to love the distance.

Like most mobile races at GP I suspect it will be barrier dependent, despite it being a 2500 mtre race.

If the barrier draw doesn’t go the way of the two favourites the Derby has the potential to be a wonderful spectacle.

[Messenger]

As a very young man I used to love the racing at the Melbourne Showgrounds and I like the small tracks of Stawell and Ararat near me but I look at GP and all I can think is how unfair it is

[Jasper]

I think it has a lot to do with the 9/3 configuration of the barriers at GP. Our largest track Pinjarra has a 7/5 configuration ironically but for some reason the smaller GP track has the 9/3. This is especially relevant to 1730 races where if you draw 8 or 9 you more or less have no chance. Recently we drew 9 at GP, went back to last and ran second last (field of 10), beaten 12 mtres. Our horse however ran the fastest last half, of the race and it is the only time he has been unplaced in 13 starts for us.

So I don’t mind small tracks as such. One of the best races I have seen is the 2022 Williams Cup, a mobile race over 2600 hundred metres with ten starters on a 737 mtre track with a 78 mtre straight.It was on from the start with three challenging for the lead, mid race race moves and a wall of horses coming into the straight (well 5 anyway). The winner, Awaiting Instructions, came from second last at the bell!

The goal posts on the last bend aren’t a bad add on either (NZ have sheep on their infield, we have goalposts).

People often mention the Showgrounds but I haven’t seen any footage. Is there anywhere I can watch a race or two from that era?

Also Collie is on today, a 644 mtre track. I hope the drivers count the laps correctly. Last year a couple got suspended, I can see how as it is a little confusing in the longer races and the bell isn’t too loud, as far as I can recall.

[Messenger]

Hard to find quality video of the old Showgrounds racing but this link is as good as any (being one of the last)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NHXj4caZSY0

The date is wrong - this race was Jan 19, 1980
I think this was the 4th last meeting held at The Showgrounds
Not a bad crowd for an ordinary meeting

[Jasper]

Wow. Stands all around the track, good crowd (by modern standards), horse comes from last to win, standing start.

Thanks for the link.

Also congratulations to the Whytes (and Donald Harper) re Jamie Kim’s win last night at Narrogin. JK won after 10 months away from the track after a fairly serious injury. A truly well deserved win for a lovely natured horse. Great work to get him back.

[halfyourluck]

For old vision, let's not overlook Kyle's efforts here- his youtube account link is here
https://www.youtube.com/@kylegalley

Just some of the highlights with Showgrounds vision on Kyle's youtube page are:

ITG interview with Gordon Rothacker with vision of Minuteman's Showgrounds Inter - Gordon says the gates were closed before the first race. Stay watching for his Wedderburn anecdote.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MVA1NzLniYA

Kyle's interview with Ted Demmler has Showgrounds footage plus Pure Steel at MV
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fp4kY-ThKpM&list=PLylFJ21EeO7CfcIpQVv_ZA9wMifLapoM8&index=15

Rare Movietone type footage of former top juvenile pacer Opal Chief and his trainer Keith Raw
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mIvcSUpg8ZI&list=PLylFJ21EeO7D_dotI3iJ0r3_T1YUhGEXB&index=4

While it's not at the Showgrounds, don't leave without viewing Kyle's piece on the great Maori's Idol including the famous Qld Group 1 against the pacers when 2nd to Rip Van Winkle
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dcKRduCmzok&list=PLylFJ21EeO7DGIKoexefeRJAVGzjz6BY6&index=16

There are several other Showground's races as well, and even footage of the old Croydon training track.

His efforts are great, especially as I get the impression he is really a Greyhound man at heart.

[Messenger]

Thanks Graeme, I had not forgotten Kyle's efforts - sadly 'Amlin' has not been seen on the forum for 4yrs
Horrified to hear he may be a 'Dogs' man!

[Jasper]

Brilliant channel (There goes the afternoon!). I’ll also be inventing a Time Machine, first stop Showgrounds 1979 and then Richmond Raceway 1980, Gloucester Park match race etc.

Thanks for posting the links.

[Toohard]

Haven't seen Kyle for few years but don't think he's lost to harness racing. I could be wrong but think he still heavily involved at Warragul Trots club. Very, very accomplished race caller and calls dogs mostly but still does occasional trots meeting. Does a great job and a good fella too!

Has deservedly won awards for all the work he does keeping the Trots history 'alive'. Think he has 'shed loads' of stuff. Follow him on Facebook (Kyle Galley) he often posts some interesting Trots stuff.

[Messenger]

Definitely still Warragul's biggest spruiker. You will see his posts on HRV's facebook page in the lead up to Warragul meets.

[aussiebreno]

Mag Storm impressive first up but barrier won it for Diego.

If there is any justice in the West Mag Storm get even luck and wins the WA Cup in a couple weeks. $2.80 Lads but $5 TAB - the very least a lay off opportunity.

[Jasper]

Your right re barriers. Diego always seems to draw a low barrier in bigger races and Magnificent Storm always draws wider. It is quite weird given the RBD component.

Tenzig Bromac went huge as well. He will add a lot of interest this year. Shaping up as a good race, fingers crossed it isn’t the same as last year, from a viewing perspective.

[Messenger]

Yes, the winner was probably only the 3rd best run of the race

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP271023#GPM27102304

[Jasper]

Sulky App has Diego equal 9th rating re performance rating! Top three are Jumpingjackmac , Tenzing Bromac and Magnificent Storm.

[Jasper]

WA Derby - the draw has made it a fascinating race. Mister Smartee in 6, Never Ending in 7, Lusaka in four etc. Very rare to have a filly, Turn The Page, in it as well. I think the last filly to win the Derby was Via Vista in the 80’s, from memory.

[Messenger]

10.20 AEDT works well

[Jasper]

I went too early re barrier draw, thanks for the correction. Going to be a cracking race so it might be worth staying up for. On the site they have NE at 7-2 , unless I am again mistaken. Seems a little generous to me.

[aussiebreno]

Was there a re-draw? I seen the draw Jasper did.

I think this has happened before with a WA big race

Edit: Unless fields got published in alpha order?

[Jasper]

No redraw, they published the field and then did the draw this morning. I was a little confused and thought there may have been a stuff up but this wasn’t the case (see last years Quokka).

I was a little too fast out from the strands. There’s a reason why I am still a weanling.

[aussiebreno]

The issue is for all intents and purposes it looked like final field with final barriers on harness.org. I think they are best off not publishing it via that medium and if they want the final field announced pre-draw doing a media release or similar.

[Showgrounds]

WA Derby - the draw has made it a fascinating race. Mister Smartee in 6, Never Ending in 7, Lusaka in four etc. Very rare to have a filly, Turn The Page, in it as well. I think the last filly to win the Derby was Via Vista in the 80’s, from memory.

Via Vista it was, trained by Bill Duffy. 1981. From the draw, if Turn The Page lobs outside the leader she has a big chance. She should have won the Oaks on protest.

[Jasper]

You don’t hear Via Vista mentioned much over here as far as harness racing history goes but I can remember she dominated during her 3 year old year especially.

Has there been any other fillies to win a Derby since then ie any Derby?

It could seem like a just reward if Turn The Page won the Derby. The Oaks situation was just the latest episode of whip rule chaos in Australian racing ie both codes. I wonder if a disqualification rule would work, however I suspect that would end in a lengthy legal process and nobody would want that.Personally I would like to see the whip used in only a tapping motion and trainers owners should have an option of not taking a whip out in a race.

[aussiebreno]

You don’t hear Via Vista mentioned much over here as far as harness racing history goes but I can remember she dominated during her 3 year old year especially.

Has there been any other fillies to win a Derby since then ie any Derby?

It could seem like a just reward if Turn The Page won the Derby. The Oaks situation was just the latest episode of whip rule chaos in Australian racing ie both codes. I wonder if a disqualification rule would work, however I suspect that would end in a lengthy legal process and nobody would want that.Personally I would like to see the whip used in only a tapping motion and trainers owners should have an option of not taking a whip out in a race.

Pink Galahs won a Vic Trot Derby off the top of my head.

Tailamade Lombo won an Aust Pacers Derby at Harold Park (with Under Cover Lover coming 3rd) and was 2nd in the NSW Derby in same year.

[Showgrounds]

Pink Galahs won a Vic Trot Derby off the top of my head.

Tailamade Lombo won an Aust Pacers Derby at Harold Park (with Under Cover Lover coming 3rd) and was 2nd in the NSW Derby in same year.

The most recent filly to win a Derby is Amazing Dream in the Northern Derby in Auckland, where she bloused Copy That. That was March 2020. Interestingly, she was owned by Jean Feiss, who originally purchased Turn The Page at the NZ Weanling Sale in 2020. I did have photos of that filly as a foal and I recall her having a very deep neck and a thick backside. She looked like a broodmare as a foal but struck me as one that might take a bit of time to mature. Turns out I was right. Tough as an overcooked mutton chop, she is still learning but building on her reputation every start.

[Messenger]

Trev, how was it that Jean let her go without ever racing her.
Would it have been the fact that she was only going to be a 3yo and by the time she qualified there were already 4 siblings that had raced without setting the world on fire

[Showgrounds]

Trev, how was it that Jean let her go without ever racing her.
Would it have been the fact that she was only going to be a 3yo and by the time she qualified there were already 4 siblings that had raced without setting the world on fire

The other foals weren't much chop, although the previous filly won a weak Sires Stake heat for Tony Herlihy. TTP didn't demonstrate a great attitude when broken in and her tubby frame gave the impression she would need a lot more time. Which proved true. I guess, with half a dozen more yearlings to break in Jean had to move her on.

Look at her now and you see a powerfully built and striking filly. Looks tough, is tough. When you buy half a dozen yearlings every year you just can't give them too much time. Mind you, Jean is truly rapt with the filly now because she is by her old champ Vincent. Her eye for good unbroken youngsters hasn't diminished.

I am noticing a lot of the better Vincent fillies display the same breeding traits. While their first and, sometimes, second dams may not have left much you tend to find some really good horses further back in their pedigree. I guess that is the lot of young, unproven Colonial stallions. They don't attract too many stand-up mares in their initial crop and have to prove themselves the hard way, Many fail because of this, Vincent appears to be succeeding. 48 individual 2 and 3yo winners in Australia this year suggests he will make the grade. So far, he is just lacking a group 1 winner. Maybe the filly can change that.

[Messenger]

Thanks Trevor - I knew you would have valuable insights on the matter

[Jasper]

Let’s hope so. Amazing Dream has won 1.96 million over the course of her career, that is quite remarkable to say the least. Interesting that she has got Lumber Dream on her mares side going back several generations too. From memory Preux Chevalier ran third in the WA Derby at his fifth start, or something like that.

[Messenger]

Not that surprising in terms of Lumber Dream

Check out this list of his Broodmare Sire awards

https://classicfamilies.dev/career/LMBRTRM10011619

[Messenger]

The Derby favourite is very short at $1.35
I don't know the WA horses but I note that he has not run over the distance before and that he has led for his last 3 wins while he is off the 2nd line tonight

[aussiebreno]

Shannon Suvaljko race 2 great drive unlucky to have got nutted on the line.

Hotly Pursued in the Derby Consolation showing how hard it is to come from the back. I expect Never Ending may make an earlier move that that horse though.

[Messenger]

When did the Derby get put back to 7.49/10.49
58 minutes between races!

[aussiebreno]

Interesting

[Messenger]

as in son's unrestrained drive sees dad train the winner

[Messenger]

and the other crazy thing is that Gary Hall Jnr has pretty much been the main driver for the First Four place-getters
(off to bed)

[aussiebreno]

as in son's unrestrained drive sees dad train the winner

Yeah. I would think nothing untoward but optics isnt great.

He ramped it up in the 2nd qtr which was fair enough given the wraps and driving that way gave main danger Smartee no chance.

The drive on Smartee was also interesting, one stopped in his face but surely at that point you pull 4 wide to continue pressing forward. Then he got to the back and came 3 wide charging. Not talking through my pocket because he wouldnt have won anyway but it was a stinker of a drive.

[Jasper]

Thought the Never Ending drive was a misjudgement re speed given the horse is coming off a respiratory issue and first time over 2500. Usually GP 2500 mtre races at GP are rack em and stack em. The first quarter and down the back sprint really told in the last 150mtres. It’s very easy with hindsight though. You can dissect the race but barriers and fitness won out, in my humble.

Those stats on Lumber Dream are quite remarkable. I do recall he was a good broodmare sire but not to that extent. (Also did Pruex Chevalier had one of the most distinctive gaits that you will ever see?, wonder if that was from his sire or dams side?)

[Messenger]

Sweet Lou sired the quinella

[Jasper]

I failed to mention how meritorious the winner was ie Skylou.1.56.3 mile rate is really moving and much faster than the previous year (mile rate 1.58.8). It was probably a race record. Essentially a great staying performance, wonder if Skylou could be the one to mix it with the big guns in the slot races.

[Messenger]

That was a good finish by Rolling Fire

[Jasper]

Good point. Very good horse. A fair way from the winner but it’s hard not to see Rolling Fire being competitive in some good races. I have the impression he will be one horse that strengthens with maturity.

[Messenger]

$450k is a lot of money in the harness world

[aussiebreno]

A travesty if Storm doesn't get his name on the honour roll as he has been best in the west for 18 months by a gap (except Shockwave who we barely get to see in action).

[Messenger]

There was always going to be a protest if he JJM could run 2nd.
I am off to bed - will read about it in the morning

[Messenger]

Dismissed

[aussiebreno]

12m margin we should have been in bed 30 mins ago. Will chip in for De Campos fine though

[aussiebreno]

Magnificent horse!

[Showgrounds]

My take on the race:
Magnificent Storm spent the entire first bend trying to cross Jumpingjackmac. De Campo showed no intention of easing, yet McDonald kept trying to hold MS out. Contact was made when De Campo eventually crossed, yet JJM was not "knocked down" as Snr claimed mearly mixed its gait for a few strides before regaining the run of the race.

The subsequent protest was, um, ambitious and optimistic. MS sprinted clear of the field in the straight to win by 12.7 metres. This, in a Grand Circuit event and WA's premier race.

Snr's outburst and claims in the steward's room were both outrageous and unfactual. Just watch the replay if you disagree. Snr calling De Campo a cheat is highly unprofessional coming from a once-respected trainer (his stocks with me now amount to zero). His claim that MS could not win if it had to sit in the death is plainly ridiculous given the manner in which the horse won and the early petrol it consumed to lead. If Snr thought JJM could win, you would expect it to have finished a lot closer than 12.7 metres.

The only truth spoken during Snr's rant was by Ray William's during his brief, to the point, interruption.

De Campo did cause interference, compounded by McDonald's blind compliance with his trainer's instructions. He deserved a suspension, likely to be reduced on appeal. Six weeks seems a bit excessive,royally given with some added mayonnaise to appease the raging Snr.

The stewards handled the protest well and earned their pay, dealing with a licence who's demeanour suggested he is in charge of WA trots. As for Snr, pull your boof head mate and publicly apologise for your behaviour.

Snr is the elder statesman of WA trotting. Compare his arrogant, disrespectful behaviour with the Fred Kersley and you quickly draw the conclusion only one of them is deserving of "legendary" status.

All of these shenanigans greatly detracted from Magnificent Storm's wonderful win.

[Jasper]

My immediate reaction was how on earth would they overturn the result, then I immediately thought of the Lucky Grey protest, the most unusual protest that I can remember in any code in WA which was upheld. Overall it was a pretty interesting 30 or so minutes. Ray Williams old school approach elevates him in my opinion. MS has been a wonderful horse over here for the last 3 years so it was great to see him win our biggest race.

I wasn’t overly interested in the Pacing Cup this year; 7 starters from the previous year, same trainers with multiple runners, lower class horse from the East was the only visitor etc. Turned out to be the most memorable for a few years. (Kyle Harper drove a double also including the big mares race which was great to see).

[Messenger]

I am a bit less accommodating of De Campos drive Trev. As McDonald had the inside, I see it the reverse of you - he showed no signs of surrendering the lead and yet De C kept persisting
He was going to get the lead but should have got another ½ m clear before coming down
As it was the biggest of races, the stewards were entitled to be ropable too - what if he had brought JJM down

Magnificent won magnificently and very hard to say he would not have done so from the death But he broke the rules to take the lead
I didn't see any Stewards room footage and have not bothered reading much about it
I didn't expect them to uphold the protest but I would not have been totally surprised - it would have been drawing a moat as opposed to a line in the sand

Overall it says something about how ridiculously leader biased the GP track is (thus drives like we saw last night)
I was happy to see Magnificent win

[Showgrounds]

You summed up the race pretty well Kev, the track is notoriously leader biased. That, in a nutshell, explains De Campo's determination to lead as well as McDonald's resolve not to hand up. The odds of contact being made increased with every stride the horses took. In accordance with the rules, De Campo cops a suspension while McDonald just copped a check for continuing to push his horse up when his chances of continuing to hold the pole had diminished. Fortunately for McDonald there are no rules or laws that I am aware of against stupidity.

G. Hall Snr can thank his lucky stars for the absence of rules against stupidity as he might have copped 12 months for his behaviour in the stewards' room.

Did the contact that caused Jumpingjackmac to break look to be a deliberate action of De Campo's to you? This is what Snr stated, not alleged, several times in the protest hearing. Watch the race again and compare it to Snr's statements - not allegations- that his horse had been deliberately knocked down. That is a very big stement too make and somewhat defamatory towards De Campo. He then went on to say, as part of his reason for protesting, that Magnificent Storm was a great horse but not brilliant enough to sit outside the leader and win. again I say the extra work the horse did, the winning margin and the manner in which MS won suggests Snr got his assessment wrong.

He then added that MS, by knocking JJM down, he had cost his horse the best position in the race (the lead) and, wait for it - and forced his other horse (Diego) to race in the death when it would have had the 1/1 spot if MS had stayed in the death.

That last comment summed up Snr's frustrations perfectly. The race was not rum in the way he hoped it would be. Had JJM not been checked, would he have vented so much?

From his 1 minute tirade I learnt Snr agrees the best place to be in a race is in the lead, he probably underestimated MS's staying ability but couldn't admit this having protested, and MS's failure to cease attacking for the lead cost Diego the coveted 1/1 position. And, worse, repeatedly accused De Campo of knocking his horse down.

Throwing a driver under the bus in this manner is extremely disrespectful and unprofessional in my opinion. He then followed on, ranting about his 55 years in the game and again stated it was a deliberate act. Having shut Ray Williams' attempts to refute his statement, I give a tick to Ray for shutting up when the stewards directed him to.

Williams' three word interjection summed up Snr's rant to that point and, intuitively, what was to follow. "You're talking sh!t".

Nuff said!

[Messenger]

Thanks for the transcript - he was talking shit.

[Showgrounds]

Thanks for the transcript - he was talking shit.

And gets away with it without even a tut-tut.

[Jasper]

But they had to have a crack re the protest as they had a responsibility to the owners and there was huge prize money on offer. As for throwing another driver under a bus what else could he say as it was pretty evident what occurred. Intent, which is what Hall focused on, isn’t really relevant to the matter at hand so that was an error in their argument.

If the protest was upheld it would have set an interesting precedent. The weak link was that JJM was almost ran over for second and he actually wasn’t off stride for very long. While Hall got off subject, alot, he was clearly stressed and emotional and having the camera so close to his face was probably a little unfair. It’s not as if he turned over tables or was abusive. If he had walked out that would have definitely been unprofessional and letting the owners down.

In the interviews on twitter post race DC seemed a little flat, RW on the other hand was bright and happy.

Out of interest does anyone know of a protest which was upheld based on interference a long way from the winning post?

[Showgrounds]

Yes, if my horse was checked by the winner in a $450k race I would consider a protest. Perhaps not when it occurred 2 3/4 lap from home, probably not when my horse was comprehensively beaten in the manner JJM was. Given the precedence of the Stewards suspending Hall jnr for his blatant breaking of whip rules in the Oaks, after determining the short half head margin did not adversely affect the (legally driven) runner up's chances, the 12.7 margin in the Cup suggests Hall snr had no hope of success.

I reiterate, Hall snr's performance in the Stewards room did nothing to enhance the sport's reputation. The first protest hearing I recall being broadcast live was Sunline v Northerly in the 2001 Cox Plate. I wish I could find a copy of the footage. Fred Kersley was relatively unknown in thoroughbred ranks at the time. While there definitely was interference, the protest was dismissed largely due to the way Fred calmly, methodically and rationally defended his horse. The stewards obviously agreed and Fred won plaudits from the massed racing media. He won two races in my opinion; one on the track and another in the stewards room.

Compare that with Snr's bombastic minute and a half rant on Friday night. The only thing "impressive" was that he managed to defame a leading driver, tell the winning trainer what he thought were his horse's limitations (which appeared to be none on Friday night), told the world how his team had been instructed to drive and accused the winner of having deliberately knocked his horse down (didn't happen) and made himself look foolish. Not bad within 90 seconds!

And it is not suitable to throw a driver "under the bus", so to speak. There was interference and ample film of the incident. Hall should have ust channelled Fred and calmly prosecuted his case. Instead, he throws a tantrum, diverts the stewards' attention from the race to himself and behaves like a complete dick. Not good enough and totally unprofessional.

[Messenger]

Having tuned out after the race (just keeping an eye on the TAB results page as I expected a protest) I am guessing but somewhat surprised that Sky 1 gave harness extended time and telecast the protest?

[Jasper]

Well that’s good news re Sky. I tuned out and watched it on the Trots WA X site. Straight after the race Sky showed a second or two of the connections etc and then did their classic of switching to a dog race and we saw the dogs walking up to the boxes. At least there wasn’t any images of dogs doing their business on that occasion. I hate the quick switch from the trots to the dogs and the long dog walk with the inevitable occurring.

With respect to the protest and the Kersley comparison, the Northerly protest is the yardstick re behaviour but Kersley was in the prime position of winning the race. Also whilst Hall did throw the winning driver under the bus, fair enough. Most people watching the race would think the same, and he called it as he saw it (although it diminished his argument). It is funny however that we lauded (or at least I have) Williams for his response but haven’t labeled him as being unprofessional around the use of profanity in an official inquiry.

[Messenger]

Well that’s good news re Sky. I tuned out and watched it on the Trots WA X site. Straight after the race Sky showed a second or two of the connections etc and then did their classic of switching to a dog race and we saw the dogs walking up to the boxes. At least there wasn’t any images of dogs doing their business on that occasion. I hate the quick switch from the trots to the dogs and the long dog walk with the inevitable occurring.
Sorry for the confusion - I was asking if it was on Sky, not saying it was
What is the Trots WA X site?

[Jasper]

It is the old trots WA twitter site. They do pre and some post race interviews (links to stories and podcasts). I am not sure who administers the account but it is pretty a good resource. Some of the drivers are a bit generic but others can be quite funny (Chris Voak springs to mind). Matt Young will sometimes does the interviews and then run up and call the race. They pretty much have pre race interviews for most country meetings, either individually or when the drivers are in the parade rings. I have only got into to this sort of thing recently so others may be able to provide a more accurate summation.

Trots WA has a Facebook site but that isn’t as immediate.

[Messenger]

I know it is a long way but you would think money like this might attract a Vic mare

[aussiebreno]

The Norms Daughter a fortnight ago for $100K as well so GP give themselves every chance to get an interstate mare with double the big races for mares but maybe they need to push it back a bit so it doesn't clash with Queen of the Pacific and more closely aligns to the Golden Nugget.

[Messenger]

The 2536m probably has more appeal not only for the money. In the Norms Daughter, if you draw badly and are out the back, you have no chance. The extra 406m tonight gives a poorly drawn mare a bit more hope but yes, if your operation can afford someone to be away for a fortnight, there is the potential double

'Norms' place-getters could do it again tonight

[Messenger]

Interesting to see in last night's edition that despite it being 2536m, the $81 pop in the death would not give it up with over 2 laps to run - I guess it is his right but it then determines that the race is going to be a procession for the next lap. (He did get a QDT)
PP critical of Young on the favourite running along and getting beat by the one on his back

His point about team driving in the last is hard to disagree with

[aussiebreno]

I would be thinking they stitched up the fave in the last race but he is going to have a good defence given how he drove it to its last start win. I probably couldnt convict him of team driving based on how he drove it last week (without betting/phone evidence etc) but would still give him time for not giving horse every chance.

[Jasper]

Would have been interesting to be a fly on the wall when the horse returned to the stall ie if the owners attended. Another “not a good look for the sport” moment at GP.

[Messenger]

The replay runs for a long time and I think you see some chatter from Shannon directed towards Maddison and looking around for Dylan

[Jasper]

Apart from that race it was a good night of racing. The weather was perfect and we got to see My Ultimate Ronnie for the first time between races. He was on the rail but seemed to get around the track ok.

[Jasper]

Four horse FFA field this Friday at GP. I suspect if it wasn’t the Pat Cranley Memorial the race wouldn’t have gone ahead. The FFA races have been pretty average this year overall (same horses, best barrier wins, numerous small fields).

Maybe the issue is that some FFA horses are being given a break re The Nullarbor and Fremantle Cup in April. Whatever the reason is I hope this week’s race isn’t an example of what to expect in the next month or two.

[aussiebreno]

We've already had a few <6 horse FFAs over the past 6 months.

[Jasper]

Hope there isn’t a scratching. I think that happened once this year and we were left with three horses in the race.

The four year old race may be interesting ie if Hoppys Way leads (disclosure - I co-own a starter, Lucca). If My Ultimate Ronnie gets to the lead that may be it.

[Messenger]

Good luck Daniel - nice prizemoney

[Jasper]

Thank you, we going to need it re luck (agreed re prize money - can pay for the smoochies if he earns)

[Messenger]

I bet he slept well last night.
I hope the punters that had been on Wonderful when she was beaten 4 times at under $1.50 in her last 6 starts, got some of the $19

[Jasper]

Well I hope no one jumped off re Wonderful to Fly - think everyone was blinded by My Ultimate Ronnie over here and he struggled in the last 100 or so (only beaten about 10 mtres mind you).
Our horse pulled up better than me. I got some sort of virus (negative for Covid) and had my worse night at the trots (both due to the horse running last and illness) and am just starting to feel better. Saw the horse this morning and he seems very bright so fingers crossed.

[Jasper]

Small fields the order of the night again at GP. Only one race has a full field (i.e. the 9k race). Six horses in the FFA and 5 in the conditioned 25k race. December, in previous eras, used to be the premier month of racing ie leading up to Christmas! I can’t help but feel a little confused at the moment re many changes to race dates and names (especially with respect to the thoroughbreds). I for the first time had little interest in the Spring Carnival. One of the best races The McKinnon is now called the Championship (or something similar) and I completely missed the race (do we need another race with the word Champion in it!?). This is starting to occur in WA with the changes to the Pacing Cup and Fremantle Cup dates I feel with a slot race being the major focus of the current batch of administrators.

Apologies re whine, back to GP. The highlight for me is the return of Vultan Tin. Rising 12 year old, million dollar earner who recently won a trial in 1.55.8 and he will be having his 223rd start. Drawn 5 in the 5 horse race. Another interesting runner, earlier in the night, is Doc Holliday who is now in a new stable. He is always good to watch given his size and style of racing.

[Messenger]

I know that he used to train and drive Soho Dow Jones and that Robert Watson still owns him but can you imagine flying in Michael Stanley to drive a horse in a big race for you

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP151223#GPM15122303

[Jasper]

Best I could do is an Uber, possibly (disclosure bit again re Nugget).

Albany season begins again on Friday night. About 5 years ago I attended an Albany meeting and had a really good time, despite not backing a winner.

[Jasper]

Brilliant night at GP last night, very good patronage (long line to get in). Not sure if they expected such a good crowd given that they had the same number of staff on the front gate. Great atmosphere, is there anything better than being in a racing crowd when the field comes down the straight for the last time and people start cheering for the horse they backed. You just can’t get that feeling on a phone or iPad. Great to see Vultan Tin win, given his age and status. More wins are in store given the conditioned racing system I suspect. Lavra Joe was impressive, his connections must have been greatly relieved to see him bounce back after his recent AF event in trials (quite distressing to watch).

Trikki Mikki was outstanding in the Nugget. My Ultimate Ronnie had no luck from the barrier. We went out o make our own luck and settled in the One by One only to be dragged back in the last lap, and then cop a slight check on the turn. Thrilling experience all round though just to have a runner in a Group One. Our trainer achieved our goal that I set around nine months ago so I am more than proud of that and how far Lou has come.

Even though there is a lot of negativity in the culture of harness racing at the moment (and I am guilty of this at times too), I can’t help but feel that the sport is primed for a revitalisation. It remains an exciting sport on the track, a way for families to either reconnect or remain connected and most of all a celebration of this wonderful and unique breed of horse that we are all richer for being around.

[Messenger]

Thanks Daniel, here's hoping for a big crowd at Albion Park tonight and that the rest of Australia can catch WA's enthusiasm

[Mighty Atom]

Brilliant night at GP last night, very good patronage (long line to get in). Not sure if they expected such a good crowd given that they had the same number of staff on the front gate. Great atmosphere, is there anything better than being in a racing crowd when the field comes down the straight for the last time and people start cheering for the horse they backed. You just can’t get that feeling on a phone or iPad. Great to see Vultan Tin win, given his age and status. More wins are in store given the conditioned racing system I suspect. Lavra Joe was impressive, his connections must have been greatly relieved to see him bounce back after his recent AF event in trials (quite distressing to watch).

Trikki Mikki was outstanding in the Nugget. My Ultimate Ronnie had no luck from the barrier. We went out o make our own luck and settled in the One by One only to be dragged back in the last lap, and then cop a slight check on the turn. Thrilling experience all round though just to have a runner in a Group One. Our trainer achieved our goal that I set around nine months ago so I am more than proud of that and how far Lou has come.

Even though there is a lot of negativity in the culture of harness racing at the moment (and I am guilty of this at times too), I can’t help but feel that the sport is primed for a revitalisation. It remains an exciting sport on the track, a way for families to either reconnect or remain connected and most of all a celebration of this wonderful and unique breed of horse that we are all richer for being around.

Hi Daniel,
I agree to a point but It's unfortunate that the Golden Nugget, despite being around for so long and having champion horses win the stake money, is still only worth 250 grand. On the other hand, the Phoenix greyhound race at The Meadows was worth over a million dollars, making it no surprise that harness racing is considered a poor relation. It seems like million-dollar dog races are becoming a regular occurrence. While Tricky Mikki won, I also think Wonderful To Fly proved herself as the best four-year-old.

I also share your sentiments about the culture of harness racing at the moment. The number of races and the average performers can make it difficult to enjoy the sport, and the good quality horses tend to be overshadowed by the mediocrity of the lesser ones. Back in the day, the trots were a spectacular night out with enormous crowds, but it seems like the experience has changed.

Regarding the track at GP, it does seem slow for this time of the year, except for some of the open horses the rest seem to be stuck in the 1:57.8 to 1:58.3 mile rates, and it's almost possible to guess the time just by watching the race go like the clappers for the first 400 and then drop anchor. It all makes for boring and predictable racing. More than a few of the times are similar to what they're clocking at Globe Derby.

[Jasper]

Sorry to correct you but the Golden Nugget was worth 200k! The Greyhounds taking over the Trots is a big change that I have noticed since coming back to the sport so I agree with you in that regard.

I believe that we can get back to the old days of decent crowds (and I may be the only one) if the experience of participation can be sold to the public ie both through ownership and attendance. In the last 12 months I have been to more than 20 meetings to watch both my horse and the horses of other family members. On Friday alone around 15-20 family members came along to Gloucester Park. There was a line at the front gates which was the first time I had seen that in years. The other positive was the relatively short times between races, despite the late start. The Pony Trots was a real winner too.

I am not sure how to articulate this but I am sure that if the public had a spot where they could actually get closer to a horse or pony then that would add to the experience of attendance at the trots ie where they could feed them smoochies, carrots etc. Our breed seems to be perfect for that sort of interaction.

Agree with you re Wonderful To Fly. The trainer has to be commended for the way he has managed her over here racing career. Be good to see her in the next Pacing Cup (can’t get enthused about slot race re equity issue).

Had a serious look at Busselton re my horse but I don't think he would get a start. It looks like being an excellent season down there though so I hope it goes well. (These “community” meetings have been another positive thing that I have noticed since getting back into the trots).

[Jasper]

This Friday at GP we have something like 63 starters. The same meeting last year had something like 93 starters. You have to wonder what is going on.

Is it time for RWWA to make some sort of statement in order to restore some sort of confidence in the future of harness racing in WA? If not, what does it take for this to happen?

[Messenger]

Imagine if you were Vic and had prizemoney reductions and your leading stable under a disqualification cloud

[Jasper]

I see your point but at least you have a decent number of starters re Shepparton (is that the equivalent to a metro meeting?).

Kalgoorlie’s last meeting, prior to it closing in 2017, had 49 starters. GP Friday with excellent money on offer and no travel factor has 63, as previously mentioned.

It will be interesting to see how the yearling sales go this year in both jurisdictions. I can only hope this Friday is an aberration but it seems like it has been coming for a while.

If Emma Stewart does end up on the sidelines I wonder if she is the first leading trainer to be disqualified? I can’t recall any in WA. The outcome of the Stewart appeal will be interesting re unusual charges/precedent (I think).

[Messenger]

When Shayne Cramp was charged and stood down in the middle of the 2014-15 season, he was the reigning premier for the 2013-14 season in Vic

[Jasper]

Oh.

[Jasper]

Interesting times coming up in WA with Divided Stakes races being programmed for GP. It seems to me that all horses over Level 7 can be nominated and fields will be made up from this group (the races for younger horses are still programmed). It is unclear exactly how the fields will be determined and the drop back option may have been eliminated (?).

It happens already to a certain extent when races are split but this is usually within the class of the race. It kind of takes away the idea of placing a horse and you have to wonder if such races will be over one particular distance. The Level 7 preference clause for 7/9 races is not present for these races also, which isn’t a bad thing.

No announcement has been made, regarding this change, but you would have to think one is coming soon. (Please note I am no gun re programming but this is how it seems to me).

[trish]

10 HES NEVER BEEN BETA NZ Fr7 7 Gary Hall Snr Gary Hall Jnr 79.40 $ 1.95 fav 3W W1 GG5 QP VXAR NAR

QP.......Really????

[Messenger]

Yes, Jnr got stitched up there - a slow Q so he went and they did the next Q three seconds faster.
Stewards seem to have questions about his drive in R5 when the stablemate seemed to get a 'sprint lane' - I'm not sure there is anything in it and as for QDT I am not sure what was wrong with going to the lead, unless they think he went a long a bit too fast?

[Messenger]

Oops, now I get it - I just read on PP that Brown and Hall are partners off the track

[Jasper]

I think PP summed it up nicely.

Went to Bunbury last night, learnt a little about myself ie that I am a pessimist. I was the only person in our group who during the week thought “I hope the lights don’t go out”.

The lights, well the ones that work, are really impressive. Despite the problems last night you can see the potential for harness racing to be invigorated in the area. I am not sure what it is but they seem different to any other lighting system that I have experienced.

(We also learnt that our new companion horse is the worse companion horse ever re running around bucking and kicking in the car park, parade ring etc.Turns out she (ironically her racing name is Sweet Suzi) hates ponies and given that the pony trotters were just down from us she caused a few problems and was on her worse behaviour. Might have even made our horse more anxious. I suspect she also had something to do with the lights malfunctioning too, just can’t prove it)

[Messenger]

Great post Daniel LOL

Were there only 3 races run at Bunbury?
That would seem obvious from your post and the results page but I am just checking as the TAB do not have the results up for the second half of most meetings from last night

[KTQ]

I think PP summed it up nicely.


(We also learnt that our new companion horse is the worse companion horse ever re running around bucking and kicking in the car park, parade ring etc.Turns out she (ironically her racing name is Sweet Suzi) hates ponies and given that the pony trotters were just down from us she caused a few problems and was on her worse behaviour. Might have even made our horse more anxious. I suspect she also had something to do with the lights malfunctioning too, just can’t prove it)


:D:D

[KTQ]

In a town of 50,000, they should be able to get a good crowd. I think they should get a van and pick up people from the retirement villages for a day out.

[Jasper]

Works at Pinjarra re buses of older people having a day out, That was one of the things that impressed me when I came back re room full of retired people enjoying the Pinjarra trots.

I suspect though that Bunbury will improve re crowds. The lights offer something new and need to be promoted as such. I hope they don’t malfunction again though.

[Jasper]

This news is a couple of days old but the brilliant horse Shockwave has been retired. Lifetime stakes of 567k, 39/50 top 3 finishes with 22 wins etc.

His most amazing win for mine was on the 11/9/23 (James Brennan Memorial) when he beat Chicago Bull over 2500 after putting in some small buck as after about 200 and then over racing and leading the field by about 40 metres with a lap to go (due to hitting the cart). The second quarter was run in 26.6 and the mile rate was 1.55.7.

Horses like this are rare over here and it would be fair to say that we probably didn’t see the best of him due to injury.

[trish]

Well done Daniel, great win.
We were there to cheer you on.

[Messenger]

Well done Daniel, great win.
We were there to cheer you on.

"Travel All Over The Countryside" :D

[Jasper]

Thanks Mike/Mal (pick your favourite LL brother). He went super! Dropped him off on June 7 last year so he has been in work for 9 months and still racing well (Kudos to the trainer, perfect drive too). He passed the 100k mark last night too, although this didn’t stop him kicking the cart numerous times pre and post race (which he does every week). Sidebar- Suzi was on her best behaviour last night too.

The win will pay for my treatment re my recently self diagnosed standing start, your horse starts favourite after galloping last week, anxiety disorder!

[trish]

Ha ha Kev , but its fun.
We sing on the road again as well!!

[Jasper]

Last years Nullarbor didn’t really capture me but this years race is shaping up to be a fascinating event with the inclusion of Catch A Wave into the field. The questions are how is he currently going? (How good was Triple Eight!), can he run a fast 2500 metres?, will he get around a 800 metre track ? etc.

Hopefully this years race won’t be so late and, fingers crossed, the weather will be kinder than it was last year. At the very least it will be great to see one of the best horses to travel to WA in many years.

[Messenger]

He is a good inclusion but over 2500 and with his inconsistency, I would be backing against him

[Messenger]

I know Q4 was 26 secs last Saturday but you would be wanting CAW to be winning the rematch this Saturday

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=MX300324#MXM30032401

[Jasper]

You would think CAW would have to win to justify the trip. Not the greatest lead up to a 2500 metre race either. Mind you there are very few lead up mobile FFA races over the 2500 metres apart from a couple of country cups over here at the moment.

HAT will also be an interesting runner re The Nullarbor.

(Anyone wanting a punt on GP please note they start racing two hours early because of the football I guess. Full day Friday - Stations of the Cross , footy and the trots!)

[Messenger]

The Wave will be arriving early enough to race at GP the week before the Nulla so he will be going 1720m, 2130m, 2500m but draws for him and St Louis will be everything

https://www.harness.org.au/media-room/news-article/?news_id=64654

[Jasper]

True, ditto for the locals after watching the Bunbury Cup. Excellent race as opposed to our usual GP FFA’s which favour front runners/small track It will be interesting should Pinny Tiger get a start in the Nullarbor given his point to point speed.

The Bunbury Cup raised a few questions re Never Ending’s ability to run 2500 against the best horses, even though he was beaten less than 5 metres and had a hard run. The only four year old I can remember making the transition , over here, as a four year old to genuine Group 1 racing was Village Kid when he won the Pacing Cup beating Preux Chevalier (I think) courtesy of a fantastic drive by Phil Coulson. NE might be up against it but I hope I’m wrong.

CAW was very good last night so he is on the right track re Nullarbor.

[Jasper]

Oh- Apologies to San Simeon re 4year old transition point in previous post.

[Messenger]

A half sister of Pinny Tiger is the dam of Tonkin's 2yo Storms Collide which looked impressive winning on debut at Ballarat on Thursday

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=BA280324#BAC28032406

[Jasper]

That was impressive. I can’t recall the sire racing and we haven’t seen many of his progeny over here (or I haven’t noticed). I think there was one in the local sale though.

Hopefully PT gets a start in the Nullarbor.

[Messenger]

The Storm Inside was one impressive horse who had to contend with injuries
Before breaking down in his last start, he had a record of 18 starts for 16 wins and 2 seconds
This included missing his 3yo season (other than one start) and breaks that included 8mths, 6mths and 13mths

[Messenger]

CAW ok over 2100m last night, it was just part of his preparation but it was not a champion's run
I think he will need a leading draw

[Messenger]

I have read a local saying that sitting 3 wide running those sectionals was one of the best runs ever at GP so we will see

[Messenger]

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP190424#GPM19042404

[Messenger]

The TAB (Vic) has Hot And Treacherous $2.80 favourite
He has no right to win this
He is a 6yo whose biggest payouts have been $37k for a 3rd in the Blacks A Fake (from 1.) and for an 8th in the '22 Grins
BUT will Jason Grimson do it again (and then we see the horse never win another race)

Although they're all good odds, the locals have all firmed while the raiders have all drifted

[Messenger]

Catch A Wave - nothing wrong with his form :D
Sensational odds
But the best drive won it - congratulations Kate Gath

[trish]

Just watched the replay.
Yes well done Andy & Kate, top training effort & great drive by Kate.

Just maybe Spirit should have let H&T go.........spirit was gone a long way from home.
And G Hall was smooth in pushing H&T out at the bell.....very smooth

LAVRA JOE ....... Unlucky.

[trish]

I have read a local saying that sitting 3 wide running those sectionals was one of the best runs ever at GP so we will see


The local was 100% correct.

[Mighty Atom]

The best horse in the race Minstrel was deprived of a win because of the corrupt barrier draw starting 9 horses across the front at GP is absurd. Cameron Hart and Jack Callaghan must have been shellshocked when Minstrel destroyed their horses. The horse did all the bullocking in the race and only went down about 50 metres from the post Catch A Wave had a lot easier run.

[trish]

The best horse in the race Minstrel was deprived of a win because of the corrupt barrier draw starting 9 horses across the front at GP is absurd. Cameron Hart and Jack Callaghan must have been shellshocked when Minstrel destroyed their horses. The horse did all the bullocking in the race and only went down about 50 metres from the post Catch A Wave had a lot easier run.


Yes, Minstrel huge.

[Messenger]

Yes, we all saw that Rod and how unlucky Lavra Joe was and Never Ending may have been a place chance if not checked by the winner
Pinny Tiger ran a faster time in the Consolation

It was good to see an exciting race

[Messenger]

Lavra Joe has drawn well but I am surprised that some are so short for the Marathon Fremantle Cup
Only Captain Treacherous and Catch A Wave as interstate raiders now but I think it is a good field and promises to be a very interesting race

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP260424#GPM26042404

https://www.tab.com.au/racing/2024-04-26/H/Gloucester%20Pk%20(WA)/Fremantle%20Cup

[Messenger]

Anyone know why Lavra Joe was a late scratching?
CAW does it again!
2936m not really his distance but driven perfectly by Kate
and I think 1.55.7 MR breaks the Tk Rec

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP260424#GPM26042404

[KTQ]

Anyone know why Lavra Joe was a late scratching?
CAW does it again!
2936m not really his distance but driven perfectly by Kate
and I think 1.55.7 MR breaks the Tk Rec

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP260424#GPM26042404

Signs of colic when he was being walked around. Breaks your heart. Draws well and then scratched :(

[Messenger]

Have a look at this crazy one from last night at GP

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP070624#GPM07062409

If the INQADJ doesn't produce any suspension(s) then they are a joke

[Messenger]

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/stewards-reports/stewards-reports-detail/?mc=GP070624

The Stewards Report does not say when the inquiry has bee adjourned to, so we might be lucky to find the result (I don't read ALL stewards reports) - when you know when you generally find the inquiry to that day's meeting.
Once I had the Victorian stewards agree to tack such INQADJs to the original stewards report but I doubt that they still do that - it was pretty useful and a good system

[Messenger]

GP has the biggest race of the weekend on Friday night with the running of the 2yo Diamond for $100k (and next week the Pearl for the boys)

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP090824#GPM09082401

[Messenger]

Tune in about 9pm AEST for the $100k Pearl tonight

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP160824#GPM16082401

[Mighty Atom]

Once again a Western Australian horse has been stitched up by those cretins on the East Coast. Never Ending Barrier 10. I will never accept that barrier draws are legitimate I think it is obvious now that when it comes to WA horses racing in the east they are penalized. :mad:

[Speedy]

It was a preferential barrier draw.

[Messenger]

I figure this has to be mostly about barriers although $1.38 to $51 seems amazing

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP230824#GPM23082405

[trish]

Never Endings run was super.
Jack drove the perfect race

[Mighty Atom]

Captain Ravishing delivered a fantastic performance in the Navy Cup, last night at GP proving to be the horse to beat in the upcoming Pacing Cup next week. I've heard that the connections may entrust the horse's care to Jemma Hayman and Ross Olivieri, although I'm not sure for how long. Perhaps they're considering the Nullarbor as a strategic move.

That said, I have to mention that the local contingent were unbelievable they roll out every Friday night, charging around the Gloucester Park circuit like asthmatic ants struggling under a heavy shopping load. But aside from that their enthusiasm is excellent, as noted by Captain Blackadder.

Overall, I'm feeling quite disillusioned with harness racing in Western Australia at the moment.

[Messenger]

I don't know Rod - I will swap you for Victoria, at least you are racing for real prizemoney, have a city track and people prepared to breed this season

[Mighty Atom]

After last week's comment, I'm quite happy to eat humble pie. Outstanding win by Minstrel in the Pacing Cup 1:55 in the breeze very much in the style of the mighty Pure Steel.

[Messenger]

It was a magnificent run Rod

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP081124#GPM08112404

[trish]

Excellent result. Great race.

[Messenger]

I have just discovered today that Ch7plus streaming service has a WA Racing channel !!!

I wonder whether we could get TrotsVision on 7plus

[Mighty Atom]

Great racing at Pinjarra today. Nullabor Navajo nailing Steno on the line in 1:50:6 and Sangue Reale (can you believe it?) beating Minstrel and Magnificent Storm in the Mount Eden Sprint in 1:49:9.

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=PA170325

[Messenger]

Thanks Rod - I am heading for the replays!

[Messenger]

That was some Mount Eden sprint - they took 1.8 secs off the Tk Rec
(Well not really as Nullarbor Navajo had taken 1.1 secs off it the race before)

[Messenger]

With an even spread of prizemoney, GP are racing for $260k tonight (10 races)
The least is for $21k the most is for $31k
Some states seem to be going well

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP280325

[Mighty Atom]

Bunbury Cup Saturday night race 6 https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=BY290325
Mister Smartee and Magnificent Storm to clash all leading up to the Nullarbor.:o

[trish]

Bunbury Cup Saturday night race 6 https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=BY290325
Mister Smartee and Magnificent Storm to clash all leading up to the Nullarbor.:o

Great run by Magnificent Storm. Just hope he stays sound.
Great horse.

[trish]

Should have put , Great to see Catch A Wave blow em away here.
That was a great result.

[Messenger]

And a nice win for Katie's family with Little Darling winning the Gp2 Empress

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP180425#GPM18042508

[trish]

Well Swayzee & Catch A Wave drew well. NOT!!!

It is a long way to go to draw a crap barrier.
But someone had to draw them I guess.
Was it publicly drawn????

[Messenger]

Trish, Swayzee's is potentially not bad at all - with no scratchings he would be the only runner on the second line

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP250425#GPM25042501

TAB have Minstrel $2 fav

[trish]

Trish, Swayzee's is potentially not bad at all - with no scratchings he would be the only runner on the second line

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP250425#GPM25042501

TAB have Minstrel $2 fav

Jason is not worried about the draw for Swayzee.
G Hall basically said Swayzee can not win. I do not think MS can win either.
Gath is not concerned about CAW 's draw.

Good luck to them . Hopefully it is a great race .
Minstrel is the horse to beat for sure.

[Messenger]

Swayzee's biggest challenge yet

https://www.harness.org.au/media-room/news-article/?news_id=69714

[trish]

Love how Jason feels Swayzee can go round , sit outside them & win.
That is confidence in his horse.

[Mighty Atom]

Love how Jason feels Swayzee can go round , sit outside them & win.
That is confidence in his horse.

Hi Pat, I think Jason is right but it won't be without a fight especially if Minstrel can get to the front without an effort. I think Junior will take off with MS knowing he will get a trail when Swayzee comes around. But while the war is going on the only horse who is capable of swooping from back in the field is Catch A Wave and that's why I'm picking him to win. All hypothetical of course.

[trish]

I just about agree with you Rod . Swayzee is tough but all horses can get run down after a tough run .
It should be a great race .
How good would it have been if Leap was in the field .

[Messenger]

Catch A Wave might have a crack for the lead Rod

[Messenger]

If you have not seen the Nullarbor and want to watch it WITHOUT knowing the result

Here is a link to the race BEFORE - scroll down carefully - just enough to see the Replay button for R10

https://www.harness.org.au/racing/fields/race-fields/?mc=GP250425#GPM25042504

[trish]

And without telling the result the horse's run that ran 4th was enormous. 3rd horse outstanding as well. The winner & 2nd did not have to do any work , change the positions around & 1st runs nowhere. IMO.

[Messenger]

I plan to discuss it in detail in about an hour as most truly interested fans who might have liked to watch the race live but could not be bothered staying up after 11.30 would know the result by then

[Messenger]

You could have posted that Rod

I think we all believe that as sort after be the 1x1, rarely has it been given such a glorious ride as it was last night, with the result that the 1x2 quinellaed the race.

Swayzee is one tough horse but as PP has pointed out - he rarely wins big races that he has not led in. I half think that he had not been tightened in the last 100m he may have come again for 3rd

Hart got it wrong - if it was the right tactic or executed correctly he definitely places

I know it was a fast race and I prefer Catch A Wave over shorter distances but I thought he was a tad disappointing despite landing in an unenviable position

It turns out that Junior getting to the death before Swayzee, secured the race

[trish]

I actually thought Cameron would have run 3rd for sure if he was not tightened over the last , what 50?

Anyway let's hope the draw in the cup favours both Swayzee & CAW . And IF they get the cushy trips , see you later , bye MS .
Minstrel is a very good horse.

Do you think that 27.8 qtr was wrong Kev?