Trotters Only in Here...

[Maorisidol]

Inspired by fellow poster on this Forum Messenger, aka Kevin O'Donoghue who's 40 years following the trots has had him essentially ignore the good old Squaregaiter, i have decided to open a thread dedicated to the Trotters only.
As Kev has alluded to lately, the trotters can actually have a story to tell, and can actually have some interesting things going on!
For myself as an avid follower of the trotter i totally agree with that sentiment of course and hence have started this thread to talk all about the trotters.
I am talking about trotters in all states and would love to create a micro community where Owners, Trainers, Drivers, Punters and anyone who enjoys the gait can contribute.
With the Trotting ranks essentially going thru a complete Renaissance right now, its a great time for all involved, and also those like Kev who haven't been so involved to read and maybe get a bit more interested.
Currently with the Vicbred Super Series going on and an amazingly deep quality of young horses coming
thru due to some advanced thinking on breeding by some clever Owners and Trainers, its a great time to be into the trotter.
Coming up in late July we have the Redwood Trotters Carnival at Maryborough in Victoria with racing of all Trotters on Friday, a new Non TAB day on Saturday and the Grand Finale of the Group 1 2YO Seelite Windows and Doors Redwood Classic and the Seelite Windows and Doors Victorian Trotters Derby. (your welcome Michael!)
Anyway enough of this intro...

[Maorisidol]

Speaking of the Redwood Classic and particularly last years winner I'm Stately (and isn't he just) where is he and hows he going? I do believe i have seen him at some Shepparton trials a few weeks ago but he hasn't made it to the races yet, and with the Derby coming very soon, i would think he would be not far from gracing the track again...
Anyone know anything?

[djgood]

I grew up with trotters with my father being one of the few who trained them in the 80's in NSW and I feel I train trotters better than I train pacers and really need to find another one now miss in Majorca has retired

[Richard prior]

Ash, I find it extremely interesting that the current World Champion trotter Sebastian K(1.50.1)comes from the same maternal family of the mighty Albatross, He's currently racing in Nth America and really putting their best to the sword.

[Messenger]

Ready to be converted Ash, I have always known that a champion trotter is a beautiful thing to see (aka your namesake) AND there are too many trots races to ignore them all nowadays :p

[aussiebreno]

Speaking of the Redwood Classic and particularly last years winner I'm Stately (and isn't he just) where is he and hows he going? I do believe i have seen him at some Shepparton trials a few weeks ago but he hasn't made it to the races yet, and with the Derby coming very soon, i would think he would be not far from gracing the track again...
Anyone know anything?
It surprises me be trialled as I heard quite a few months ago he had broken down and was told this
again 2 weeks ago. The 2 weeks ago part Id had a bit too drink, hopefully I was confused and he is back!

[Maorisidol]

It surprises me be trialled as I heard quite a few months ago he had broken down and was told this
again 2 weeks ago. The 2 weeks ago part Id had a bit too drink, hopefully I was confused and he is back!

That would b dreadful news Brenno if true!
Anyone from the Jack neighbourhood or Shepparton area know anything?

[Messenger]

I found a trotter that won't break Ash ;)

[Maorisidol]

Know what i hate?
When you write in here for about 20-30 mins, in between glancing at the TV, you press "post quick reply" and then up pops "you must log in"! and the 2-3 paragraphs you just wrote disappear into thin air!

[Maorisidol]

Cant wait for the barrier draws for the Vicbreds for this Fri nite.
Has been some big losses this week namely Maori Time at $1.10 who led from the pole and was coasting running close enough to 33,33,32 and then 30 but was first horse gone at he 300 and ran near 50m from the ever improving Desert Spur.
Also big Blitzthemcalder was disappointing in a regular trot over the SS 2760m coming from 20m but only managing 5th where Xanderxav who has been racing very well his last couple, looked a nice each way bet. Good to see Brief Glance stringing together some consistent runs without galloping, great run from the death. Also nice to see Daddy Lang getting Lucky Twenty Three around in same vain, coming home well. However Daddy didn’t have a good time with $2 Fav Steal a Sixpence at Cranbourne when caught 3 wide the first whole lap and found it too hard. Action Kosmos proved he didn’t have to lead to win coming from well back to beat Triumphant Monarch with Sixpence 12m away in 3rd.
Fri arvo we saw a pretty bad fall at Albion Park when death seat horse Our Sunny Jewel seemed to be pulling out of the race due to a flat tyre??? (strange…) when the follower 1/1 seemed to move forward a little too early and clipped the sulky in front and hit the dirt head first, causing 1/2 horse to join the crash. i believe all horses and drivers are ok but would love some Qld’r to confirm. According to the All American Chris Barsby on Sky all were well…so that's all i got to go by.
Then Sat nite at same venue we had Victorian visitor Just Call Me Earl bumble the start as he can, and come home very well probably a good thing beaten. The Pearl of Paris was too quick at the start and got around my good money maker Its Three by Two and sustained good pressure from him in the last lap to win by 2.2m with the Vic visitor 3rd and Justanothermaori doing well for 4th. Chesapeake Boy, Sunnivue Ted and Goldstar Invasion disappointing. Sea Spray Notch’s time will come soon.
Over in SA ex NSW trotter Casino Kerrie stepped out for her first start at GD and produced good form to run over Vic visitor Rockin Wilma who did all the work initiating the 3 wide train, but i must say was a bit disappointing in the straight, however she does pull a bit too hard quite often.
I think the 3YO boys section of the Vicbred and into the upcoming Derby is developing into an intriguing event.
One Over da Moon, Daenerys Targaryen, Our Twentyten, Asdenro (who will relish the long Derby distance) Spidergrace with many things Aldebaran, and very new fresh fellas like Savannah Jay Jay and the big Imamenace who have done great things in only 3 starts between them and show crazy potential once they grow up!

[Messenger]

Come on Ash this is your gig - predictions please :D

[Maorisidol]

Come on Ash this is your gig - predictions please :D


Ok a quick reply only got a few minutes at the moment, will be back to finish off later...


2YO Boys, Elkayjay Phoenix to lead and win. First time tho he has come up against Spidergirls little brother Illawong Armstrong since they both had their first start together and Illawong galloped so will be interesting. However LJK drawn 2 looks unbeatable based on the othet guys draw where in comparison he will have to do so much work, AND, Josh Aiken will know that! Black Valley maybe even better odds than them both to place with the cosy sit behind leader, has been super consistent but top 2 better at this point.
Back soon...

[Richard prior]

Hi Guys, I'll just drop in here while waiting for Ash to finish his preview. Do yourself a favour and go to You Tube and punch in Sebastian K World Record, Astonishing !!!!!!

[Njcstables]

Hi Guys, I'll just drop in here while waiting for Ash to finish his preview. Do yourself a favour and go to You Tube and punch in Sebastian K World Record, Astonishing !!!!!!

Hi rich, that is amazing. I guess it was only a matter of time before a trotter went that quick but still! For what it's worth the best horse I've seen was Moni Maker. Her record was unbelievable. And if you want to see just how good she was google 'Moni maker Julie krone'. Puts our monte trotters to shame!

[Maorisidol]

Ok a quick reply only got a few minutes at the moment, will be back to finish off later...


2YO Boys, Elkayjay Phoenix to lead and win. First time tho he has come up against Spidergirls little brother Illawong Armstrong since they both had their first start together and Illawong galloped so will be interesting. However LJK drawn 2 looks unbeatable based on the othet guys draw where in comparison he will have to do so much work, AND, Josh Aiken will know that! Black Valley maybe even better odds than them both to place with the cosy sit behind leader, has been super consistent but top 2 better at this point.
Back soon...

3YO Boys.
Main players, Asdenro, Spidergrace, Guiltless. Tiavons Dream in that order, however, we have definitely one major new player based on his only 2 starts who has done amazing things really considering how experienced his opponents were, Savannah Jay Jay drawn great in 4, first 2 starts off back row. If he stays in gait and is to the front half will be up to it with bells on.
Another smokey, will be Imamenace, bad draw inside second row, massive big horse but was last at 400 in only race start and came home for 5th beaten 8m behind Asdenro, will mature into a very good trotter based on that run.

4YO Mares
Spidergirl will be Black Caviar odds here, will win barring accidents.
Paris Pepperell will run second unless something untoward happens, 3rd place will be 40m away like last week.
Desert Spur, Bella Cheval, or I Dreamt It fight out 3rd-4th.

4YO Boys
Blitzthemcalder should win. If he doesn’t his flame is seriously fizzling. Big questions will arise.
The Boss Man can win with the right run and Vincenne could easily blouse them both if he can sit sprint, could be too fast at the finish.

3YO Fillies
Claudys Princess. thats it enough said.
Illawong Helios from the pole for second, however I’m scared that the other Illawong who will lead and capitulate may keep Helios from getting out.
2,10,11,12,13 to fight out other prize money.

2YO fillies
No real standouts here yet in any dominant way.
Endsino will be Fav or Val Gardena but she has back row for first time.
Est Est Est greatly consistent, great EW bet.

[Richard prior]

Excellent Ash!!!!

[Messenger]

Good tipping Ash
4yo Boys you dedicated half your preview to the $35 winner
and did not miss any of the other winners

[Smoken]

Great tipping Ash! Imamenace is a GIANT :)

[Richard prior]

Hi rich, that is amazing. I guess it was only a matter of time before a trotter went that quick but still! For what it's worth the best horse I've seen was Moni Maker. Her record was unbelievable. And if you want to see just how good she was google 'Moni maker Julie krone'. Puts our monte trotters to shame!
Hi Nathan, Fantastic mare and is the benchmark for Trotters all time IMHO. Quite staggering to see her final performance under saddle and she just didn't beat the record, She smashed it into another Universe taking 4 seconds off the previous mark.

[Messenger]

Hi Guys, I'll just drop in here while waiting for Ash to finish his preview. Do yourself a favour and go to You Tube and punch in Sebastian K World Record, Astonishing !!!!!!

http://www.harnesslink.com/International/Sebastian-K-heads-Maple-Leaf-Trot-eliminations

This pic caught my attention Rich. How good does he look

[Richard prior]

Magnificent animal and has the ability to match his good looks.

[jackthepunter]

Even though it's off tropic their never be another Christian
Cullen for looks and ability. Would have loved to see him
race at menangle. Reckon he could go 147 their.

[Messenger]

Another 4 Trots races on the program at Melton tomorrow night

[Viv Strangman]

Will be interesting from a Kiwi prospective how Arya goes in the two year old trot at Melton.
This half sister to Stent has to give them 10 meters start but has great manners and a big motor so it should be a good gauge of where she sits with a view to the Breeders Crown which is what she is over there for.

[Messenger]

Hi Viv, would Brent Lilley only be the trainer until Mark Purdon arrives?

[Maorisidol]

Will be interesting from a Kiwi prospective how Arya goes in the two year old trot at Melton.
This half sister to Stent has to give them 10 meters start but has great manners and a big motor so it should be a good gauge of where she sits with a view to the Breeders Crown which is what she is over there for.
Arya is obviously performing greatly in the top 2-3 2YO Kiwis and Black Valley for mine is pretty much number 3 in Australia but just at the moment lacks the brilliant speed of the top 2 Aussies.
Neither of these 2 have ever had a SS race yet so either or both could end up 100m behind whoever wins the race! So manners ultimately will win between these 2. If they both trot maybe the Kiwi will win but Black Valley is very solid and will be a better stayer than sprinter and this race is 300m more than Arya has raced over as yet.
The 3YO race previous on the card to the 2YO will be great. it has 4 of the leading Derby hopefuls and will prove to be a match race i think between the kiwis Daenerys Targaryen, Our Twentyten and One over Da Moon who is performing exceptionally well so far since in the C.Lang camp.
Theres a great TM1-TM3 race with Thanesan who looked like a new horse in his first start for the Aiken camp last week, with another week under his belt and the 2 who beat him last week at home in their stable he looks the winner. Now we have 2 problems. In that same race last week Brief Glance was absolutely rocketing home the last 100m and may have won if the race went another 50m. He is racing super well at the moment and finally seems to b living up to his potential, he can win. Problem 2, Mister Gunsen will lead and cross Thanesan but then stop anytime after the 400m mark potentially blocking him from getting out and drawn to follow out Gunsen is Brief Glance who should be right up the front half if he behaves.
Race 1 sees the ever improving Paris Pepperell from the pole, if she leads she should win i think. She has been chasing home Spidergirl lately so thats pretty good form against these guys. Wont be easy by any means tho.
Glenferrie Dreamer off the back row should be right in it and Rostevarren another who has found form.

Great night last week for the trotters in the Vicbred Finals and most went to plan.
Imamenace was a great result nice trifecta, nice $35 winner.
Not sure if anyone picked up in post number 10 in this thread also with "Sea Spray Notch’s time will come soon.", he won next start at $9 and same post, "my good money maker Its Three by Two " who also won next up at $7.60???
No Qld trot this weekend !!!
Trot on!

[Messenger]

LOL just noticed this - I do not think that Arya's last start win counts for much as he was the ONLY HORSE IN THE RACE

ps Why would that race have gone ahead?

[jackthepunter]

anyone know what happen to david miles good young trotter, just cant rember its name

[Maorisidol]

anyone know what happen to david miles good young trotter, just cant rember its name
Roy Hobbs...?
Not raced since May 2013
i would have no idea myself sorry...

[Messenger]

but Virgil Hilts is still keeping the movie theme going

[jackthepunter]

Roy Hobbs...?
Not raced since May 2013
i would have no idea myself sorry...

yeah thats him. looked like he really could have been something.

[Maorisidol]

yeah thats him. looked like he really could have been something.

Yes he had a lot of ability, hope he gets back racing, would be great if anyone connected with the Miles camp may know and let us know in here.
Same goes for the even better Im Stately, again would appreciate anyone connected to the Jack camp that may b able to enlighten us...

[Viv Strangman]

Hi Viv, would Brent Lilley only be the trainer until Mark Purdon arrives?
Hi Kev- Brent Lilley seems to be the go to man for the Allstars horses at the moment but Arya would revert to Mark and Natalie once they arrive with the rest of their big team i'd think.

[Viv Strangman]

LOL just noticed this - I do not think that Arya's last start win counts for much as he was the ONLY HORSE IN THE RACE

ps Why would that race have gone ahead?
Heat of Breeders Crown-- Run regardless of numbers.
Arya only out of the money once in NZ when disqualified from second in the Jewels for interference after breaking 1:57 after being wide half the race on 1000 meter track. Has never broken in any of her starts to date but there is always a first time i suppose.

[Richard prior]

Arya's a very serious horse and the Jewel's DQ is a real mystery.

[jackthepunter]

Should they ban 2 year old stand starts? for the most part their a balls up. would like to know if any one bets on them

[djgood]

Properly trained 2yo trotters can start as quick as any off the stand too many these days are rushed and become too erratic , I think more 2yo races should be stands see who the real good trainers are

[Messenger]

Hey Ash, how does Illawong Magic improve his best winning MR by 7.4 secs in the first last night?

ps Shared Interest was a good debut in the last

[Amlin]

It seems the Victoria Trotters Derby is a standalone race this year - there used to be heats run across the state but this year just the one race at Maryborough next weekend.

[Messenger]

That is surprising Kyle - what with all the bloody trots races we are seeing lately (sorry Ash :))

[Amlin]

Perhaps it was altered to make room for more R0 races?


By the way, the Redwood Carnival also contains a non-TAB meeting on the Saturday this year, so that is three days of racing. Hope it doesn't rain. And they have programmed a Trot at Warragul on the Monday, after three days straight of trotting races at Maryborough.

[aussiebreno]

Redwood carnival fields are out. Always enjoyable racing.

Your time to shine Ash!

[djgood]

3 days of racing and not that many really backing up another fine weekend for the majestic trotters

[Maorisidol]

Redwood carnival fields are out. Always enjoyable racing.

Your time to shine Ash!

Here we go...

Maryborough Sunday
Race 1. 2yo Consolation.
Too many here have very little or bad experience in SS races.
Shared Interest couldn’t have been more impressive in his first race when he missed away and pushed NZ’s top 2yo My Arya in the run to the line.
If he trots he will win. Only a bad gallop will or check should beat him. Bring The Action has been great so far holding strong just below the top 3-5 2YO’S this season, but only had 1 SS 2 weeks ago finishing 123m from winner, great chance if goes away. Intersting runner is 1st Emerg, Yankee Sister, younger sister of Cold Sister who has trialled really well, she looks like she could be off 100m in the Pony Trot but looks a good thing to come.

Race 2. Monte.
Si Capisco impressive in his first Monte recently can only improve on his 2nd and gets an extra 10m in front of that winner Sonofanearl. Illawong Magic was huge last week pinging out from the mobile winning in super time (yes Kev, Messenger, it was a big turnaround in form). but these races can be a raffle especially from the SS. I’m out.

Race 3. Derby Consolation
Enjoy An Ale clear top pick but Annies Life has a lot of ability but bad manners, if she behaves could outsprint the other fella.
Balmoral Boy scares me, again bad manners but as a recent addition to the Aiken stable, that doesn’t happen for no good reason.

Race 4. T2 only Mobile.
Query runner is pole horse having his first Aussie start for B Lilley, Our St Pierre. He has had 3 Mob starts for a 1st and a 3rd.
Will have pretty good competition from I Dreamt It drawn well in 3. Quest Front not drawn so well but will be in right in it as can Stunning Jasper.
However Canadian Dream is my pick, she is flying.

Race 5. Redwood 2yo Classic Group1.
Well the 2 top Kiwis have landed barrier 1 and 2!!! My Arya will probably start Fav and of course will be very hard to beat from there. Primz Luck drawn 2 should also be there he’s won 4 from 7 and is 1 for 1 in SS.
But our boys Eljaykay Phoenix and Illawong Armstrong will be right there at the finish.
Its about manners in the SS and out of these 4 the ones who trot most and don’t lose ground will fight it out.
Ill go for LJK he is virtually untested apart from his last start but this will b his biggest test to date coming from behind against Arya…

Race 6. The Johhny Slack Memorial T4 SS
Tough race, lots of depth.
Quite A Moment to b Fav I feel, especially from that draw.
Pretty Sunday and Rostevarren next best i reckon with Glenferrie Dreamer too.
Triumphant Monarch and Lord Liam next. But again very even race, not many donkeys in here!

Race 7. Derby.
Claudys Princess gets the pole and totally gets her chance to beat the boys from that draw. Has had a big campaign and her last start she really showed heart, first time over 13Furlongs here, so will be fully tested today. Of course she has the benefit of Mr Gavin Lang!
I see Asdenro leading and he will relish the longer distance that might sort out some more of the “popular” Favs. That gives Claudys the sit and hang in for the sprint lane.
One Over Da Moon great barrier in 3 if the Emerg comes out should be handy and his mum One Over Kenny had no issue with the long trips winning over 3000m in Oz.
He is racing very well for Chris Lang and seems to like it here under his care, great work Chris. Our Twentyten will have his work cut out and will have to prove he is the best horse in the race from inside second row, may be 3 pegs or may decide to come via the outside rail… his last run was good after the run before bit of a shocker so who knows but is obviously good.
Daenarys Targaryen not been that great lately, tough draw and i reckon the boys may be too tough for her in this fight, but she has Mark Purdon in the gig who knows her well.
Her successor 2 starts back the new and improved Maybetothemax son of Maybe Hall could be a smokey as was Imamenace a few weeks ago. He has learnt how to NOT gallop and show some great potential will be interesting here and beyond to see how high he can climb the success ladder.
Which brings me to just mentioned BIG killer in the Vicbred Final Imamenace.
Kind of bad draw outside front row, but gives the chance to balance and maybe keep rolling forward after they settle and again look for the death seat.
Will have to work to get there cos others may know he’s goin there and they want forward cover such as Guiltless and Spidergrace, but could very well repeat his last effort again.
He pulled hard in the death last start so big call for anyone wanting to take it off him i reckon.
In his first start on the track as i said pre the Vicbred he was last at the 400 came very wide and was not far at all from Asdenro and others. So pop him upfront over this distance and his big long legs may just keep grinding home to a Blue Riband.

Race 8. FFA
My High Expectations to be fitter after first run back and should prove he is the best horse.
Thanesan great 2 runs since joining the Aiken camp, drawn to be handy will b in the finish no doubt, as will be Sunset Invasion. But this will be Sunsets biggest test to date against MHE so will be good to see how he goes. Zedalite went to another level last time in and acquitted himself really well over the ditch in the big Kiwi Trotters races in May.
First up here against very good stock, probably will need the run and has a tough draw.
Sit sprint specialist Stoned I Am can sit quietly drawn 2 second row and potentially unleash a great finish, he is in great form and will be fitter at his 3rd run back in.

RACE 9. T1 Mob
I expect The Dutchman to cross pole horse Caledonian Breeze here and can lead all the way potentially.
Kadabra Dynasty slow from mobile start but will be strong at the end second up from a spell, was held up and out late last start and came home well.
Sunnyvale Comet won well first race start but then had a baptism of fire against the likes of big Blitz and Vincennes and was 75m from the winner. Much more suited against these and should run well, also a fast beginner off the arm and could also want to lead but i doubt The Dutchman would hand up.
Drop Us A Line is as dour as the headstall thats never taken off her head during races, bit of a shining light of the past but will be thereabouts.
Argyle Melody the other Conroy clan member racing well, loves mobiles but tough draw and lots of chances in this event, such as Dizzyinterest who drops in grade a lot. Is very smart but has been not too great lately. Bella Cheval racing well without luck, Kains Boy in hot form, and Sun Of Anarchy winning in TRO class for Brent Lilley. Tough race.

Race 10. T2 Mob.
Jeter on pole should lead a long way.
But, the back row sees some good stock with Steal A Sixpence who is strong, Queens Vacation who is fast but headstrong and Jusamirel who has loads of ability but is like driving a car with no wheel nuts on ya wheels! Just waiting for him to put it all together and win a few in a row…Super Zeck is another with good ability, no luck last run and came home strong, will be longer odds than the others mentioned, each way, but more place then win...

[Messenger]

Fillies quinella the derby with the more patient drive winning - and Gavin Lang was on the receiving end. A mighty effort by Claudys mind you.

[spider2311]

Fillies quinella the derby with the more patient drive winning - and Gavin Lang was on the receiving end. A mighty effort by Claudys mind you.

Well deserved win for Helios. But gee Claudy was a massive run, had to burn out of the gate, then went around with ova the moon going mad, found the top then got attacked by twentyten and only got beat 1.5 meters in track record time. Wow. Asdenro big run for 4th. One ova da moon, ill hold my judgement on that. Great day, great racing.

[Messenger]

I am worried that Ash overdosed at the Redwood festival and is lying semi-conscious in a Maryborough stall

[Maorisidol]

I am worried that Ash overdosed at the Redwood festival and is lying semi-conscious in a Maryborough stall
Hey Kev, I’m alive!!
Had a busy week since getting back home Sunday nite and have been meaning to pop in here but just hasn’t happened till now.
Mind you i started writing this Wednesday night and its now Sat nite!!! Bit late i know, bit of old news, but this thread is all about the trotters so heres what i saw...

Firstly Congratulations to the Maryborough Club for putting together 3 seamless days of fine Squaregaiting with 25 races run and won.
I must say the Non TAB day on Saturday was quite a pleasant surprise, quite busier than Friday even tho the latter essentially had better fields vs the TR races on Saturday.
Obviously on the TV monitors you had all the Gallops races in all major cities throughout the day as well to keep people busy too…

So back to Friday,
Well no superstars were discovered here but all the racing was well contested, all very competitive and generally a good day. Great to see also that every horse from 6th to last got a cheque for $115!
Saturday we saw a few good efforts from first starter in the 2YO, son of good mare WHY WORRY, called OF NO CONCERN who death seated all the way and gave driver Daryl Douglas pretty much a worry free drive. He’s a big strong fella and was nice and solid. Favorite, fellow first starter SKY PETITE who is a Skyvalley/ Thepowerofhealing filly who also ran well sitting quietly with the sit and coming home nicely in the sprint lane for a very close 2nd.
Our Elvis was another great training effort to win at his first race start at 5 years of age in the 2nd race.

Also well done to Eddie Conroy who had his new stable addition, the daughter of great mare La Coocaracha, Blaring, have her first race start for him.
Blaring has had a number of trainers over her 21 start career who have thrown their hands in the air and hand balled her out of their stable in frustration.
She successfully trotted all the way and finished 3rd in her first race in over a year. Well done Edwin.

Of course well done to the great man Master Kiesey winning and leading all the way at 13 yrs of age. And again a nice training effort from Kari Males with THE TRUTH putting together 2 wins in a row after being a bit disappointing when first arriving in Oz after losing his initial mojo.

THE BIG DAY!

2YO Redwood Consolation
Nice win to Kyvalley Boomerang who sat quietly and came home strong to win over Fav Shared Interest who had a very tough run and tried hard.
Derby Consolation saw Lightning Calder get the sit behind Fav Enjoy An Ale, and outsprint him in the sprint lane. Great effort midfield by outsider Columbias Deejay, he’s in at Stawell this Mon and should run well drawn 2 in the Mobile…

Redwood Classic
Eljaykay Phoenix great effort from pushing forward from 2nd row at the start to lead and win well from the fast finishing Kiwi who got within a neck after having an easier run and sprintlaning late. Endsino best of the rest with many bungling the SS or breaking gait.

Derby.
Wow what a spectacular!
A bit of a comedy really but not in a good way with poor old Imamenace moving forward to the death as predicted but unfortunately One Over Da Moon fired up and couldn’t be restrained by Chris Lang who would have eased for the 1/1 normally. But that was not to be, and Asdenro who lead as predicted then was tackled twice by One Over, and never really got any peace. Awesome performance by him to finish 4th.
Claudys Princess another great performance, she showed great staying ability against the boys in a crazy race to finish 2nd.
Congrats to Illawong Helios for getting a dream run, and being in the right place after most had exhausted themselves so she could then use her sprinting prowess to run over them all to grab the prize.

FFA
My High Expectations wins to most peoples expectations but Zedalite continues to impress and improve even more based on that effort first up to be gaining on the winner and only be 2.1m away.

[Messenger]

Glad you are alive Ash. You will be pleased to know I am going to the Maori Legend tomorrow

[Maorisidol]

Glad you are alive Ash. You will be pleased to know I am going to the Maori Legend tomorrow

Thought you would be going regardless of the trotters races. Interseting race the Maori Legend this year as there are certainly no superstars in it...
From the pole we have a half sister to none other than Sundons Gift from the Kerryn Manning stable who has had a few trials when beaten by up to 75m by stable mate in this race number 2. So watch and see with her...?
Then we have 2 Glenferries from the Walker stable who have form and more experience, probably leaning toward Glenferrie Burn.
Chris Lang has Valley Ess Jay who could win with the right run, but i like the other Peter Manning trained Majestic Jess who is a very fast beginner from the mobile and has a big drop in grade here.

In the 3yo Boundary Row should push forward to lead with Greg Sugars steering and lead all the way, he has won at Stawell already. Comaidai Lodge will be running home as will Majestic Ess Jay and Gaelic Lass and Bacardi Breeze to fill Tris and first fours...
In the 3rd trot, Candy Digger is in hot form and can certainly win if things go her way, but Tiroroa Idol will be Fav i reckon and hardest to beat. However look out for only second starter Peters Passion who started nicely on debut at Maryborough and led until heavily pressured and broke, may run a cheeky race if left alone in front and allowed to settle. Any of the back markers can run in the top 4...
Should be a great day there weather wise Kev, so have a good day!

[Maorisidol]

Thought you would be going regardless of the trotters races. Interseting race the Maori Legend this year as there are certainly no superstars in it...
From the pole we have a half sister to none other than Sundons Gift from the Kerryn Manning stable who has had a few trials when beaten by up to 75m by stable mate in this race number 2. So watch and see with her...?
Then we have 2 Glenferries from the Walker stable who have form and more experience, probably leaning toward Glenferrie Burn.
Chris Lang has Valley Ess Jay who could win with the right run, but i like the other Peter Manning trained Majestic Jess who is a very fast beginner from the mobile and has a big drop in grade here.

In the 3yo Boundary Row should push forward to lead with Greg Sugars steering and lead all the way, he has won at Stawell already. Comaidai Lodge will be running home as will Majestic Ess Jay and Gaelic Lass and Bacardi Breeze to fill Tris and first fours...
In the 3rd trot, Candy Digger is in hot form and can certainly win if things go her way, but Tiroroa Idol will be Fav i reckon and hardest to beat. However look out for only second starter Peters Passion who started nicely on debut at Maryborough and led until heavily pressured and broke, may run a cheeky race if left alone in front and allowed to settle. Any of the back markers can run in the top 4...
Should be a great day there weather wise Kev, so have a good day!

Well 2 out of 3 long shots today at Stawell...The Maori Legend 2YO goes to Sisulu Success at $12.80 with the 2 more favoured Glenferries filling the trifecta.
The 3YO goes to $46 second starter Royal Dream trained by Joanne Franklin having her first win this season (thanx Kev for that info, thats not my discovery...) and it was only the horses second race start.
Her first start was a SS and she galloped, today was her first Mobile, drew the pole took the sit, sprintlaned to win quite easy.
Without properly researching before the race exactly who is Royal Dream, for goodness sake she is out of the same mare as OUR DREAMLOVER!!!
No one told us that!! lol...
Tiroroa Idol wins the 3rd trot easily from Candy Digger who picks up her 4th 2nd in a row!!! The Kiesey stable 2nd,3rd,4th!
4 days ago they grabbed a 1st, 2nd, 4th!!
If theres not a stable trifecta or even first 4 looming somewhere quite close by, ill be surprised.
New stable addition My Archie Way a better run today, looked way better in the home straight, but was hanging a bit final turn, good signs in general tho.

How'd you go Kev?

[Messenger]

As is often the case I did not have a bet.
Liked the look of the first winner in the parade ring - in there way before any other horse with trainer and driver and the name was a massive omen for me But Oh Well, after that I thought that was going to be my win for the day
I thought I should have a little on your Legend's suggestion but didn't when it halved its price. If your saw their first attempt at a start you could not have had a bet on any of them.
and I left before the THIRD trot - sorry but had things to do ;)
I did however see the winner as it came out and did the preliminaries with the horses in the race before

[Maorisidol]

The Sumthingaboutmaori FFA tonite at Melton had an interesting coincidence when her son Justanothermaori won the trot at Redcliffe like a stroll in the park!
Justanothermaori is racing in great form up in Qld, i think they have now worked out he is better kept as a sit sprint option rather than doing too much work in his races like what was happening when he first got there.
Tonite he picked up his 10th win in only 45 starts at now 9yrs old, so he certainly hasn't come up to his mums success levels but great to see him winning 3 of his last 5 starts with more to come.
So back in Melton My High Expectations dominated and won the FFA. Zedalite continues to put up great performances but the most eye catching run was that of runner up Sunset Invasion, he was held up from about the 400 to the 200 and flew home very fast falling short by only 2.4m. Will be interesting to see how he can develop in this class in coming weeks, signs are looking good based on tonite.
At Menangle Alta Rihannah led all the way from the mobile to beat ex pacer On Thunder Road who lost too much ground at the start not scoring up well and was valiant as runner up. A Loan Again very disappointing based on his previous runs. Tonite he didn't fire out of the gate like he has previously where he has crossed Alta TWICE just recently and i expected him to lead no problem and only be able to be beaten by the ex pacer, so poor run by him. Alta has been racing well recently coming from back in the ruck so good on her. Star Gun finally trotted all the way in NSW but is not the horse he has been at all, next stop QLD? And same for Reign Of Darkness. He has showed some good promise after settling in in NSW but has now gone off the boil, sitting 1/1 tonite thought he may be up there but runs last!

Breeders Crown heats at Maryborough Monday looks like a great day.

[Maorisidol]

Breeders Crown heats at Maryborough...
Hot Fav $1.20 Eljaykay Phoenix gets rolled fair and square by the very promising Shared Interest who had the quiet sit on him and in 2 great last quarters of 28.8 and then 28.8 Shared Interest has now made the 2YO boys division something of a highlight not to be missed!
2YO Fillies not too much to report, Endsino lead and won too easy...Val Gardena galloped at the start and made up a lot of ground, good run for an 18m 4th.
One Over Da Moon redeemed himself, too good, mind you Bad Habbot galloped, made up good ground, will be interesting to watch his development after a pretty good 2yo season. Our Twentyten dominated from the front had easy run, Claudys Princess great in the death for 2nd. A 3 horse race really...for the final that is...

[brent_L]

With a good draw I certainly wouldn't be discounting Asdenro Ash.....he was every bit as good as those who finished in front of him in the Derby.

[Toohard]

:) Kiesey trifecta Race 6 Hamilton today.

[Maorisidol]

:) Kiesey trifecta Race 6 Hamilton today.

Yeah great effort Paul. its been bubbling under the surface ever since My Archie Way joined the stable as i mentioned in this thread a week ago...post 51
"Tiroroa Idol wins the 3rd trot easily from Candy Digger who picks up her 4th 2nd in a row!!! The Kiesey stable 2nd,3rd,4th!
4 days ago they grabbed a 1st, 2nd, 4th!!
If theres not a stable trifecta or even first 4 looming somewhere quite close by, ill be surprised.
New stable addition My Archie Way a better run today, looked way better in the home straight, but was hanging a bit final turn, good signs in general tho."

And it only took a week. Archie is racing really well at the moment so the transfer from "regular" racing to "Kiesey" racing having multiple runs in a few days has certainly done no harm to him...hes actually racing better under Brians training now.
I take it from your "smiley face "Paul you got on the Trifecta???
I was all over it like a fat kid on a cupcake!
Box Tri 10 times
First 4 46% and also 83%
Quinella and on winner at $7.50
Who doesn't love the trotters!!!

its funny you know, when i was at Maryborough Redwood Carnival i was watching a guy who had massive printouts of form guides highlighter texta pens, writing notes and jotting down stuff which is great but i got the impression he does that for every meeting he goes to for all races and probably all meetings he may watch on Sky, so he has loads of paper about hundreds and hundreds of horses from RO to CO to C9 to MO to T1 to T2 TMO TM1 etc etc. thats too much stuff! Then i nearly fell over when there was about 5 guys watching a replay of a previous race and he says"whose that going around 3 wide there?"
I couldn't believe he didn't know who the horse was based on the look of the horse in that class of race, its posture (if i may) the way it physically carries itself, body language and the colours it wore (yes colours can change...)
Instantly i knew the horse he was asking about at the time was called Right Side Up, a small dark horse, slim neck fine body, green colours.
I reckon i could tell you who nearly and i say nearly any trotter that races regularly in Vic NSW or Qld is just by looking at them on the screen so long as they have their regular colours on and regular gear.
Now i only follow the trots part time, i'm certainly no Pro punter but i reckon you could have more success if you concentrate on a certain segment of the overall horses so you REALLY know them by looks, by who's a good beginner, who's faster at the start than that other good beginner, whose reliable to trot and not gallop in the trotters example vs a horse who may have more ability but a mental case, who specialises in Mob starts vs SS races, who prefers 2100m to 2500m etc etc.
I reckon if someone concentrated on the Claimers you would get to know them nearly ALL (and yes they come and go) in a few weeks and be more successful than trying to win a dollar and any race where you don't INTIMATELY know every horse.
Hence i only take notice of trotters races from a betting perspective, i reckon i have watched, replayed, replayed the last 200-400m in slow motion, fast forwarded the last 200-400 in fast motion, replayed the start, replayed the start again, paused and analysed every trot in Vic for the last maybe 3-4 years 7 days a week. And this works...i don't reckon you can do that with over 40 races a day sometimes in Australia or maybe 20 a day in 1 state.
Just my opinion, interesting to see what others may do, if anyone else "specialises" in say 3YO racing only? Or Melton weekend racing only for example.
However as this is the trotters thread, not too many people may be reading it anyway!

[Toohard]

No trifecta here mate. Went school with Brian. We all used go Showgrounds trots. His dad had horses. Remember one called Frisky Bar. Might be wrong but reckon Bob Knight trained it. Won at Showgrounds one night and we all backed it and went out after. Memory of night a bit 'blurry' but do remember Brian being the mobile barrier running arms outstretched down middle of Swanston St at 4am in morning with the rest of us scoring up behind him. In all years been going trots since have never run into him. Ran into him Saturday night. Remembered me straight away (talking 35 years ago).

[Richard prior]

No trifecta here mate. Went school with Brian. We all used go Showgrounds trots. His dad had horses. Remember one called Frisky Bar. Might be wrong but reckon Bob Knight trained it. Won at Showgrounds one night and we all backed it and went out after. Memory of night a bit 'blurry' but do remember Brian being the mobile barrier running arms outstretched down middle of Swanston St at 4am in morning with the rest of us scoring up behind him. In all years been going trots since have never run into him. Ran into him Saturday night. Remembered me straight away (talking 35 years ago).

Hahahahaha

[Messenger]

However as this is the trotters thread, not too many people may be reading it anyway!

Of course we are!
Specializing makes a lot of sense Ash. I haven't got back into punting (yet) but I always like to keep an eye on the 2 & 3yo's - more so the 2's as reference for when they become 3yo's

[spider2311]

Endsino wins 2yo fillies, phoniex still wins 2yo colts, 3yo trot only 2 horse race claudys princess & twentyten, spidergirl 4yo trotters

[Amlin]

A rare event will take place at the Warragul trots this Monday afternoon when a two-year-old trotter competes against older horses.
New Zealand visitor My Arya lines up in the Trotters Handicap for premier Christchurch horseman Mark Purdon.
Purdon is campaigning the horse in Australia and will make his first visit to Logan Park on Monday.
My Arya ran second in the recent Redwood Classic at Maryborough, and has four wins and four placings from nine starts to her credit.
Purdon's famous blue and silver silks, seen in Australia behind some of the best horses to visit from New Zealand in the last two decades, go around in the third race at 2:25pm.
My Arya strikes a capacity field of 12 in the event, including a strong local contingent.
Under handicapping conditions, My Arya lines up off the front row.

[Maorisidol]

A rare event will take place at the Warragul trots this Monday afternoon when a two-year-old trotter competes against older horses.
New Zealand visitor My Arya lines up in the Trotters Handicap for premier Christchurch horseman Mark Purdon.
Purdon is campaigning the horse in Australia and will make his first visit to Logan Park on Monday.
My Arya ran second in the recent Redwood Classic at Maryborough, and has four wins and four placings from nine starts to her credit.
Purdon's famous blue and silver silks, seen in Australia behind some of the best horses to visit from New Zealand in the last two decades, go around in the third race at 2:25pm.
My Arya strikes a capacity field of 12 in the event, including a strong local contingent.
Under handicapping conditions, My Arya lines up off the front row.

Yes Kyle,

Will be quite interesting to see how she goes, i don't doubt she won't win really, there are some ok back markers in the race but will have to be right on their game to give this baby 20-30m start on the small track.

[Maorisidol]

Great win tonite by MY DADS A TEN, having only his 3rd race start for now a form line of 211 after breaking at the start and losing quite a bit of ground, impressive win.
To be fair AINSDALE did the same thing but lost way more ground and she is showing she will do a lot of good things in the next few months.
Nice to see 2YO SKY PETITE get the win also tonite at her 3rd start after coming in 2nd at her first 2 starts. She is a Skyvalley out of good mare THEPOWEROFHEALING who is by the Great Maoris Idol so great to see his blood running around doing good things with obviously a lot more to come form this little filly. Trainer Dean Pattison will be no doubt pretty happy he has seemingly replaced his ex best stable trotter MAKEMCRY MAORI who is in Perth nowadays...
Funny thing Vic trotters going over there and seeing them simply not performing to what they could back here. On their best behaviour the likes of Makemcry, Earl Harbour and Earl of Charity should be doing so much better over there than are currently doing.

[Messenger]

Rostevarren was Ross Graham's 1st Metro winner for the season
Blitzthemcalder and Sunset Invasion was a great sprint home in the other trot tonight. That was only Craig Demmler's 3rd Metro win for the season.

[Maorisidol]

Rostevarren was Ross Graham's 1st Metro winner for the season
Blitzthemcalder and Sunset Invasion was a great sprint home in the other trot tonight. That was only Craig Demmler's 3rd Metro win for the season.

Well deserved win to Rostevarren and good drive by Daryl to keep the Glenferries at bay, and Just Call Me Earl of course good run, just missed.
Abbotshall continues to have bad draws and bad luck, a win is not far away at big odds...

Great run by Blitzthemcalder, seems to be getting way better his last 2 runs and back to the Big Bad Blitz we want. 3 wide for maybe first 700-800m and pushed to get to the front so burnt a fair bit of petrol, i thought Sunset Invasion had no excuse not to run straight past him in the straight especially based on how well he went last week, but couldn't do it, last half 57.5.
This brings Blitz into better calculations for the 4yo Breeders against Spidergirl who has been absolutely flying at the top. Alford will be out to make it last horse standing I'm sure against the mare, he won't want any sit sprint possibilities to run over him.

[Messenger]

A rare event will take place at the Warragul trots this Monday afternoon when a two-year-old trotter competes against older horses.
New Zealand visitor My Arya lines up in the Trotters Handicap for premier Christchurch horseman Mark Purdon.
Purdon is campaigning the horse in Australia and will make his first visit to Logan Park on Monday.
My Arya ran second in the recent Redwood Classic at Maryborough, and has four wins and four placings from nine starts to her credit.
Purdon's famous blue and silver silks, seen in Australia behind some of the best horses to visit from New Zealand in the last two decades, go around in the third race at 2:25pm.
My Arya strikes a capacity field of 12 in the event, including a strong local contingent.
Under handicapping conditions, My Arya lines up off the front row.

SCRATCHED (not sure when)

[Messenger]

Covering for Ash again here folks (us blokes who are retired have to do something to justify our existence ;))
I reckon the Franklins could be doing alright if they have been putting a little on their 3yo trotter Royal Dream.
She has only had 5 starts winning once at $45.90 and again today in the Breeders Consolation paying $12.90

[spider2311]

My tips for the trotters on crown day.
2yo fillies - my arya. Just to classy.
2yo boys - el jay Kay Phoenix to win but shared interest will make it mighty tough for him.
3yo - claudys princess. How did she open up at $4.40. wow. Truly run race, she proves too quick up the lane.
4yo - spidergirl just wins. Like the stable mate vics cheval for a place ticket.

[Toohard]

3yo - claudys princess. How did she open up at $4.40. wow. Truly run race, she proves too quick up the lane.
.

Good luck Stephen!

[Toohard]

Steffi Jay. Dam of the winner of the first at Maryborough yesterday. And dam of the winner of the last at Melton last night.

[spider2311]

Thanks mate

[Maorisidol]

BREEDERS CROWN TROTTERS 2014

2YO Fillies
My Arya looks lengths above this field.
Val Gardena to come out of barrier 2 assuming Emerg comes out so should be right up front and may lead if she can cross last start winner, pole horse Glenferrie Burn.
Glenferrie Burn therefore should be right up there fighting for good prize money, Naked Majesty drawn to follow Glenferrie so should also be there with Aldebaran Midnite the roughie with the best chance.
A shame Endsino not there…

2YO Colts
Obviously Shared Interest from gate 2 has the major advantage over Eljaykay Phoenix, and based on their last race together when Shared Interest sat on LJK’s back and outsprinted him you would think he will b extremely hard to roll. However David Aiken has admitted to being a bit soft on his horse after his previous big win and he’s confident that LJK will be a better horse on Sunday, either way should be a great contest.
From gate 3 Illawong Armstrong won’t know himself from such good draw, has been beaten soundly by LJK so far but the good draw will bring him closer while NZ visitor Primz Luck was sitting pretty with the sit in his first Aussie run when he galloped so we didn’t see him run to his potential that day. Kerryn Manning is training /driving from barrier 6 so will need luck.
At this point these 4 should be the first 4…

4YO…
Well it should prove to be the Spidergirl show and could very well give the track record a shake with a good push coming from Blitzthemcalder.
He has beaten her 2 out of 2 but thats when they were 3yo’s and of course she has gone up several levels since and deserves Fav.
Will be an intriguing race, would be great to see a stirring duel down the straight lets hope Blitz can serve it up to her (not literally!)
Of course the smokey as the barriers have been released is last weeks Blitzbuster, Glenferrie Typhoon who pulled out around the big guy and flat out outsprinted him in the 27.8 last 400m. He has drawn to follow Spidergirl on the pegs and will be waiting for that sprint lane, so Alford has to deal potentially with Blitz hassling him and The Typhoon sitting on his back. Great race, great last 400m. And Bailey no i can’t see Spider handing up to Blitz. Yes she could sprint lane him, and the Blitz camp would be crazy to try run her into the ground, it would be simply ruining their own chances. I think Gavin has to yes let them know he is there (assuming he is in the death) while not making it a sprint to the finish as she will be too fast. Having said all that, and its great that Spider has risen to this new level, can’t wait to see her clash with our FFA level regularly, but i would really love to see Blitz rise to his next level.
PS. oh i have to mention $201 shot, ex pacer Vote Pedro who ridiculously had his FIRST race as a trotter in his heat last week against Blitz, Typhoon, Our Dreamlover , Vics Cheval etc, what a cheek, has Murphy gone mad against that lot? Hell no! What a run, was near last, motored home from memory as fast or faster over last 800-400 than Blitz etc passed a whole bunch of decent trotters and finished 4th. If he was up the front somewhere what may have happened? Time will tell, not saying he will win this today cos he has a bad draw but i might have found $10 somewhere to grab i think it was about $20 or so the place Fixed...With a potential war upfront a smokey with a good sprint could cause a boil-over...might see if i can find another spare tenna...

3YO
Well i believe Claudys Princess has proved to be the toughest and best trotter here. She is not only fast but has recently shown us her staying power too racing against the boys.
With reasonable luck would be great to see her victorious, she does deserve it.
There are primarily 3 horses that will stand in her way. Our Twentyten, One Over Da Moon and my 3rd danger is pole horse Bad Habbott, he is a fast beginner, will have to be on his game to hold out Asdenro and maybe Twentyten. If Twentyten is able to lead and Bad Habbott can hold out Asdenro this gives the sprint lane to him and he will get his chance.
Ill be on him EW.

[Maorisidol]

A quick congrats to Team Conroy with hardy mare Drop Us A Line cracking the $100,000 mark yesterday at Maryborough.

[Messenger]

Thanks for the great write up Ash
as for
"...might see if i can find another spare tenna..."
You can't fool us - you would be like my old father-in-law - go to his wardrobe and you would find cash in every pocket

[Maorisidol]

BREEDERS CROWN TROTTERS 2014

2YO Fillies
My Arya looks lengths above this field.
Val Gardena to come out of barrier 2 assuming Emerg comes out so should be right up front and may lead if she can cross last start winner, pole horse Glenferrie Burn.
Glenferrie Burn therefore should be right up there fighting for good prize money, Naked Majesty drawn to follow Glenferrie so should also be there with Aldebaran Midnite the roughie with the best chance.
A shame Endsino not there…

2YO Colts
Obviously Shared Interest from gate 2 has the major advantage over Eljaykay Phoenix, and based on their last race together when Shared Interest sat on LJK’s back and outsprinted him you would think he will b extremely hard to roll. However David Aiken has admitted to being a bit soft on his horse after his previous big win and he’s confident that LJK will be a better horse on Sunday, either way should be a great contest.
From gate 3 Illawong Armstrong won’t know himself from such good draw, has been beaten soundly by LJK so far but the good draw will bring him closer while NZ visitor Primz Luck was sitting pretty with the sit in his first Aussie run when he galloped so we didn’t see him run to his potential that day. Kerryn Manning is training /driving from barrier 6 so will need luck.
At this point these 4 should be the first 4…

4YO…
Well it should prove to be the Spidergirl show and could very well give the track record a shake with a good push coming from Blitzthemcalder.
He has beaten her 2 out of 2 but thats when they were 3yo’s and of course she has gone up several levels since and deserves Fav.
Will be an intriguing race, would be great to see a stirring duel down the straight lets hope Blitz can serve it up to her (not literally!)
Of course the smokey as the barriers have been released is last weeks Blitzbuster, Glenferrie Typhoon who pulled out around the big guy and flat out outsprinted him in the 27.8 last 400m. He has drawn to follow Spidergirl on the pegs and will be waiting for that sprint lane, so Alford has to deal potentially with Blitz hassling him and The Typhoon sitting on his back. Great race, great last 400m. And Bailey no i can’t see Spider handing up to Blitz. Yes she could sprint lane him, and the Blitz camp would be crazy to try run her into the ground, it would be simply ruining their own chances. I think Gavin has to yes let them know he is there (assuming he is in the death) while not making it a sprint to the finish as she will be too fast. Having said all that, and its great that Spider has risen to this new level, can’t wait to see her clash with our FFA level regularly, but i would really love to see Blitz rise to his next level.
PS. oh i have to mention $201 shot, ex pacer Vote Pedro who ridiculously had his FIRST race as a trotter in his heat last week against Blitz, Typhoon, Our Dreamlover , Vics Cheval etc, what a cheek, has Murphy gone mad against that lot? Hell no! What a run, was near last, motored home from memory as fast or faster over last 800-400 than Blitz etc passed a whole bunch of decent trotters and finished 4th. If he was up the front somewhere what may have happened? Time will tell, not saying he will win this today cos he has a bad draw but i might have found $10 somewhere to grab i think it was about $20 or so the place Fixed...With a potential war upfront a smokey with a good sprint could cause a boil-over...might see if i can find another spare tenna...

3YO
Well i believe Claudys Princess has proved to be the toughest and best trotter here. She is not only fast but has recently shown us her staying power too racing against the boys.
With reasonable luck would be great to see her victorious, she does deserve it.
There are primarily 3 horses that will stand in her way. Our Twentyten, One Over Da Moon and my 3rd danger is pole horse Bad Habbott, he is a fast beginner, will have to be on his game to hold out Asdenro and maybe Twentyten. If Twentyten is able to lead and Bad Habbott can hold out Asdenro this gives the sprint lane to him and he will get his chance.
Ill be on him EW.

Claudys Princess Scratched!!!!!!!!

[Richard prior]

That's a bummer Ash!!

[Lenny]

I love spidergirl!

[Messenger]

I love the name too Martin

[Maorisidol]

BREEDERS CROWN WRAP...

2YO Fillies
My Arya just blitzed, too good.
Massive effort by runner up Meadow Valley Road who pushed thru from back row to death seat and was very strong, well done.
2YO Colts
Shared Interest gave up the lead to Eljaykay Phoenix who he did sprint past in similar positions in their last race. But to no avail this time. Josh Aiken obviously learnt more about his opposition in their last race, David Aiken obviously tightened the screws and together with a clever drive from Josh, they got the big bucks.
These guys will have many a duel in the future!
Poor old Illawong Armstrong, I did say in my Pre Breeders predictions that he wouldn't know himself from such a good barrier, and yeah well he galloped at the start and was last. He motored around most of the field from the 500-300 but his initial gallop and lost ground took its toll. Next time...
3YO
Shame about Claudys Princess getting injured and being scratched, hope she recovers very soon.
Bad Habbott leads quite easily and gets a cosy run in front. Our Twentyten sits quietly in the death with Asdenro 1/1 and One Over Da Moon was way out the back.
Clever drive from Mark Purdon to drop in behind Bad Habbott at about the 300m and pretty much wait until the 150 or so before he went bang, he won, too good.
4YO
Spidergirl too good. Simple.
Glenferrie Typhoon did well to get within 1.9m and Blitz brave in the death had no other option.

How good is the state of Trotting in NZ/Australia????????
What a future we have with these animals, the depth, the skill, it's a whole new frontier, onwards and upwards!

[Messenger]

What a future we have with these animals, the depth, the skill, it's a whole new frontier, onwards and upwards!

and who should lead us

ps Onwards and Upwards sounds more like Superman than Spidergirl :)

[jackthepunter]

Just check the maryborough trial results roy hoobs won a trail their on sunday

[Maorisidol]

My Breeders Crown preview...
"PS. oh i have to mention $201 shot, ex pacer Vote Pedro who ridiculously had his FIRST race as a trotter in his heat last week against Blitz, Typhoon, Our Dreamlover , Vics Cheval etc, what a cheek, has Murphy gone mad against that lot? Hell no! What a run, was near last, motored home from memory as fast or faster over last 800-400 than Blitz etc passed a whole bunch of decent trotters and finished 4th. If he was up the front somewhere what may have happened? Time will tell, not saying he will win this today cos he has a bad draw but i might have found $10 somewhere to grab i think it was about $20 or so the place Fixed...With a potential war upfront a smokey with a good sprint could cause a boil-over...might see if i can find another spare tenna..."

Vote Pedro ran 6th in Final, 5 back the pegs, beaten 33.7m but was coming home very fast, another eye catching run!
Had his first chance in a T2-4 at Kilmore tonite, and there was no Spidergirl, Blitz, or Glenferrie Typhoon!
He sat in death, won untouched by 7m at $4 TAB, $4.50 Fixed, thank ya mother for the rabbits! $4.50!!! won't see him that price in a similar race again...

Great to see Mister Zion back in tomorrow nite against My High Expectations and Zedalite, and Kyvalley Blur, I See Icy Earl, Trappers Puzzle also first up. Barrier draw should see MHE win.
oops, just checked, Zion and Zedalite scratched, thats a bugger...

[Race For Fun]

Vote Pedro ran 6th in Final, 5 back the pegs, beaten 33.7m but was coming home very fast, another eye catching run!
Had his first chance in a T2-4 at Kilmore tonite, and there was no Spidergirl, Blitz, or Glenferrie Typhoon!
He sat in death, won untouched by 7m at $4 TAB, $4.50 Fixed, thank ya mother for the rabbits! $4.50!!! won't see him that price in a similar race again...

And looked very impressive. He has a full brother also a trotter Its All Me so maybe he always showed something at home.

[Maorisidol]

And looked very impressive. He has a full brother also a trotter Its All Me so maybe he always showed something at home.

Yeah i believe Toni that Pedro could trot when maybe a 3YO but was too unreliable so the hopples stayed on. A few years and a bit of maturity later, instant success and looks like a very good future.
So far Its All Me has 1 win and has not quite shown the skill her little brother has in his first 3 trotting races, but maybe in "time" a bit similar to Pedro, she may improve.

[Messenger]

Gee there have been a lot of trotters races lately BUT where is the MAN?!

[Messenger]

Ash's absence is forcing me to do this
Jarrod Alchin's win with 10yo Supper Waltz Wilson in the last at Menangle, rating the impressive 1.54.9, has knocked 1.4 sec off his best rate (when 7th for the McCarthey's in Feb last year) despite doing it tough

http://www.harness.org.au/meeting-results.cfm?mc=PC041014&ms=nsw#PCM04101407

[Maorisidol]

Ash's absence is forcing me to do this
Jarrod Alchin's win with 10yo Supper Waltz Wilson in the last at Menangle, rating the impressive 1.54.9, has knocked 1.4 sec off his best rate (when 7th for the McCarthey's in Feb last year) despite doing it tough

http://www.harness.org.au/meeting-results.cfm?mc=PC041014&ms=nsw#PCM04101407

Hey Kev, I'm still around, been away a bit, been busy ra ra ra...Thnx for thinking of me, and thnx for the Supper Waltz Wilson post. And yes hasn't he come back alive his last couple of runs, great work running the 1:54.9 from the death mind you, great work JJA!
Another old fella doing well right now after a short freshen up is the regally bred Justanothermaori who did away quite emphatically with the young 4YO on fire up in QLD, Our Overanova. The young fella had won 15 out of 16 starts in QLD but for the first time without galloping, was beaten on his merits. Great drive by Pete McMullen.

[Messenger]

Glad you're back Ash, since filling in for you I have found myself breaking stride whenever I hurry :)

[Maorisidol]

Well done Roy Hobbs easy winner tonite at Bendigo SS 2150m MR 2:02.9. Hot pace set by AJ Sullivan who loves to lead on Mowbray Mates at $92.50. Pushed to get lead off known "leader" Kains Boy then wouldn't give up lead to 2nd Fav when challenged, subsequently finished as a coincidence, 92m behind winner. AJ Sullivan got a holiday from the stewards to watch the replay of the race over and over again to maybe realise his horses actual ability against tonites opposition, as opposed to his perceived ability in his eyes...Against the right opposition i regularly back Mowbray myself and quite often do well at goods odds, but ya gotta do ya homework and study the form AJ...as Clint Eastwood says "a mans gotta know his limitations"

Looking forward to the SEELITE WINDOWS AND DOORS DARRELL ALEXANDER MEMORIAL TROTTING CHAMPIONSHIP heats tomorrow nite round 2, as well as some very competitive racing in 3 good races at Melton.

[Maorisidol]

Nice to see My High Expectations back to his absolute best tonite, i believe was .1 off track record great stuff. Cold Sister has a new lease on life, really racing well.
And massive credit to El Paco sitting in the death running that time and still running 4th. He certainly has also leaped up a notch or two and loving the higher level of racing.

Anyone got any thoughts on the trotters final in Qld Sat nite?
Is it a Goldstar Invasion/Our Overanova quinella? or will the big field cause a few front row horses to steal some spots at big odds? Tough race, many could win really depending on what happens in the race.
Mister Malakye 75% place 25% win...

[Maorisidol]

Nice to see My High Expectations back to his absolute best tonite, i believe was .1 off track record great stuff. Cold Sister has a new lease on life, really racing well.
And massive credit to El Paco sitting in the death running that time and still running 4th. He certainly has also leaped up a notch or two and loving the higher level of racing.

Anyone got any thoughts on the trotters final in Qld Sat nite?
Is it a Goldstar Invasion/Our Overanova quinella? or will the big field cause a few front row horses to steal some spots at big odds? Tough race, many could win really depending on what happens in the race.
Mister Malakye 75% place 25% win...
So Our Overannova proves he's number 1, not there was much doubt, mind U Goldstar and the Maori man have served it up to him lately, anyway here's the run down the straight...
https://vimeo.com/m/109359957

[Messenger]

HRV's strategic plan has this season pencilled in to achieve 3 trots races per program. I know it is a strategy to capture European punters but heaven help us if it fails.
Nobody is going to bet on them if they are anything like yesterday's trot at Horsham

http://www.harness.org.au/meeting-results.cfm?mc=HS271014&ms=vic#HSC27101408

[The Form Student]

I can put up with 1, sometimes 2 a meeting, but 3, they have to be joking!........suggest they make them the 1st 3 races, or the last 3 races, so you can either arrive late or go home early!

[The Form Student]

No, 1st 2 races, so you can get their and have some dinner, and the last, so you get an early mark, and beat the traffic!

[brent_L]

Like the mobile trotters but geez I'm sick of watching botched false starts in the stands. The 2nd today at Menangle was woeful.....3rd time lucky they got away but by then they were shoved over to sky2.

[The Form Student]

There doesn't seem to be too many stands for pacers, where they are off various handicaps!.........if they are looking to mix it up a bit, they should try some of these! The problem is, owners and trainers seem to prefer short course races, which does not allow the backmarkers to get into the race most of the time!

[djgood]

Problem today was backmark drivers taking thier time everyone else was ready and they did another turn and the front markers just got edgy and too close to tapes it was my fault the first one as the tape wrapped around my legs

[Messenger]

I did not realize NSW was into it too - 3/9 SS Trots today - WOW

[djgood]

I did not realize NSW was into it too - 3/9 SS Trots today - WOW

Still not enough , really need more trotters races

[Messenger]

I cannot really put my finger on why but as I have previously mentioned, I have never followed the trotters. I think back in the 70's I thought (or was lead to believe) they were too unreliable which brought into play a way to lose your money without getting a run for your money. I can appreciate the champions but not races like I saw at Horsham yesterday

[The Form Student]

Dave, there were 3 races today, 21starters in total, 6,7 & 8 runners........$20,000 in prizemoney given away......nearly a $1,000 a head! When there are more horses perhaps they will increase the programming for trotters............I did notice the trotters races pulled in roughly the same tote pools as the pacers....so that's a plus! Overall, I would say that it was a pathetic set of fields for the day, some races only had 5 runners!

[The Form Student]

I cannot really put my finger on why but as I have previously mentioned, I have never followed the trotters. I think back in the 70's I thought (or was lead to believe) they were too unreliable which brought into play a way to lose your money without getting a run for your money. I can appreciate the champions but not races like I saw at Horsham yesterday

The races at Melton are very competitive, and generally the better credentialled horses win the races!

[djgood]

Dave, there were 3 races today, 21starters in total, 6,7 & 8 runners........$20,000 in prizemoney given away......nearly a $1,000 a head! When there are more horses perhaps they will increase the programming for trotters............I did notice the trotters races pulled in roughly the same tote pools as the pacers....so that's a plus! Overall, I would say that it was a pathetic set of fields for the day, some races only had 5 runners!

Yeah im only saying that cause 95% of horses i train are trotters , more trainers are getting them due to the prizemoney breakup -pay place money down to 5th -

[djgood]

And the reason there was 3 was to fil the meeting up they are struggling for pacers and there is enough trotters in sydney to hold 4 or 5 races if they are all racing

[Richard prior]

Hi DJ, Would you agree that standing starts are still a problem with the Trotters, I stopped having a punt on them many years ago in standing start races. Sure, It's great seeing a horse get up off a big handicap but wouldn't you agree, Mobile racing is definitley the way to go particularly with the juvenile trotters. The breed has evolved very quickly in recent years due to the high class Nth American and European stallions that are now available and it's a far better spectacle when all or most of the horses get away clean from behind the mobile. I'm not saying to get rid of the standing start races all together but maybe save them for the older more mature trotters and the Country Cups etc.

[Maorisidol]

I cannot really put my finger on why but as I have previously mentioned, I have never followed the trotters. I think back in the 70's I thought (or was lead to believe) they were too unreliable which brought into play a way to lose your money without getting a run for your money. I can appreciate the champions but not races like I saw at Horsham yesterday

I can understand the 70's feeling towards the pacers poorer cousin and for about another 10 years or more. But i think the likes of the great man Maoris Idol then Lyell Creek etc started to show that there can be a serious class act possible worthy of attention.
Nowadays and i have said maybe earlier in this thread the Chris Lang factor with his passion and success with also the introduction of a lot of US and European bred trotters the standard has risen enormously in the last 10-5 years.
Re today Kev 2 out of 12 did gallop at the start and subsequently another was CAS (checked at start) however nothing too new there, but
During the running into the back straight 1 horse i think 3 pegs did gallop and checked and caused 3 others to gallop, so 4 galloping, certainly didn't "look" good, but having watched a lot of trotters races specifically in the last 3-4 years i can say thats quite rare... was certainly a shamozzle tho

[The Form Student]

Yeah im only saying that cause 95% of horses i train are trotters , more trainers are getting them due to the prizemoney breakup -pay place money down to 5th -

I was hoping MIM was going to run 3rd, for the trifecta.......plus it would have doubled your prizemoney!......I don't think she is going as good as some of her past preps.....she was matching it with the good trotters!

[Maorisidol]

Hi DJ, Would you agree that standing starts are still a problem with the Trotters, I stopped having a punt on them many years ago in standing start races. Sure, It's great seeing a horse get up off a big handicap but wouldn't you agree, Mobile racing is definitley the way to go particularly with the juvenile trotters. The breed has evolved very quickly in recent years due to the high class Nth American and European stallions that are now available and it's a far better spectacle when all or most of the horses get away clean from behind the mobile. I'm not saying to get rid of the standing start races all together but maybe save them for the older more mature trotters and the Country Cups etc.

While I'm on the keyboard Rich i'll give my 2cents worth...
SS to me are not too much of a problem if you know the form.
And i don't just mean the form, but which horses are likely to step well, those likely 90% or above to lead or sit top 3, and those that are definitely not safe at all in a stand. So thats doin ya form regardless wether u may watch and study trotters races or not. If you wanna throw your money blindly without knowing these things then you're not too serious really are u about your coin...
Good idea questioning SS racing for 2 and 3yo's but when do they get the experience when they get to 4 and have never had a SS?
There are quite a few 5 6 7 year olds who hate SS who have maybe had 50-100 starts, so some, like pacers, just aren't wired for it mentally i reckon...
Over to you DJ...

[The Form Student]

http://www.racingforum.com.au/avatars/vadim.gif?dateline=1231739010 (http://www.racingforum.com.au/members/vadim.html)

If only we could have another Maori's Idol, then people would stand up and cheer the trotter.....to be able to beat the best pacers in the land, as well as come off 50 & 60 yard handicaps and beat pacers in cup races! He was a freak of nature!

[djgood]

she is working well probably run or 2 off being fully back

[Richard prior]

Hi Ash, Good point about the young ones not getting the SS experience early on and it would be a lot harder to try and teach them this when they get older and have been racing behind the mobile, As you say, Some horses just aren't wired for it and prefer mobile racing over SS and vice versa and some pacers can be that way as well. I did say that it was a long time ago when I stopped having a punt on the SS races but your Absolutley correct, Do your form right and there's still an opportunity to snag a winner or even a placegetters at big odds.

[The Form Student]

Hi Ash, Good point about the young ones not getting the SS experience early on and it would be a lot harder to try and teach them this when they get older and have been racing behind the mobile, As you say, Some horses just aren't wired for it and prefer mobile racing over SS and vice versa and some pacers can be that way as well. I did say that it was a long time ago when I stopped having a punt on the SS races but your Absolutley correct, Do your form right and there's still an opportunity to snag a winner or even a placegetters at big odds.

Maybe they should introduce SS jump outs at the trials so that " race day" experience can be gained, and perhaps improve the overall standard of getaways for when race day comes along, and improve the image for those betting on trotters! NZ has a lot more SS racing and perhaps a better standard! Other comments have been to get rid of SS races altogether........but at least with SS races you can apply some handicaps to help even things out!

[Race For Fun]

There is no doubt that there is more skill needed to train and drive square trotters (balance, shoeing and the patience of Jobe) than pacers . There was a time when it was said that if you didn't have square trotters in your stable then that was one less race you could win at a meeting. Trotters need to be fostered. Victoria did this back in about the 1970's (from memory). NSW have tried but not with the success that Vic has had. There is nothing nicer to watch than a field of nice trotters in a race. Sure when they gallop and are spread out it's a bit ordinary but pacers who have hopples on to keep them pacing also gallop and split fields.

Young trotters need the education at stands as young horses as mobile racing can fire them up, it can be hard to get the to settle and stand if all they have is mobile racing at a young age.

[Messenger]

Soon it will be said that if you don't have square trotters in your stable then that is 3 races you cannot win at a meeting (in Vic)

[Messenger]

A $1.30 fav badly away - how can any trotter, other than a legend, rightfully start those odds

http://www.harness.org.au/meeting-results.cfm?mc=BA301014&ms=vic#BAC30101407

[The Form Student]

Watched him closely, he almost got down trotting after losing about 30 metres, but then he galloped again, and was tailed off............trotting races, you always need a plan B!

[Messenger]

Watched him closely, he almost got down trotting after losing about 30 metres, but then he galloped again, and was tailed off............trotting races, you always need a plan B!

They are HRV's plan A

[The Form Student]

And some people are upset about not getting a run from behind the leader!

[djgood]

Maybe they should introduce SS jump outs at the trials so that " race day" experience can be gained, and perhaps improve the overall standard of getaways for when race day comes along, and improve the image for those betting on trotters! NZ has a lot more SS racing and perhaps a better standard! Other comments have been to get rid of SS races altogether........but at least with SS races you can apply some handicaps to help even things out!

We do have them , until recently we could have 2-3 in a ss trial but lately i have been informed that 4 or more are needed for a trial in nsw and they havent been holding them
I was desperate for a ss trial for Paddy NZ and he missed out 4 times the result of this can be seen last Tuesday , he had been stepping perfect at home

[Maorisidol]

A $1.30 fav badly away - how can any trotter, other than a legend, rightfully start those odds

http://www.harness.org.au/meeting-results.cfm?mc=BA301014&ms=vic#BAC30101407

Kevo...

The man responsible for thankfully giving us the "odds-on FAVS only win about 50% of the time" rule, of all people should know that when you apply that rule to a trotter, particularly a low grade trotter in his case who is still pretty much young and still learning/maturing, even tho highly talented, theres maybe More than a 50% chance you may not win...
Clever and safe from the bookies/tote but as Steve said, trotters, Plan B!!!
Not too many mind you had Looks A Moral winning at about $45 tho, and hows this, he used the non-existent SL at Ballarat, leader drifted up!

[Maorisidol]

Qld day meeting today...
Not too many on here I'm sure who have their finger on the pulse of these guys but if so,
after 2 death seats in his 6 starts this season for a 7th and 8th and 2 2nds and 2 3rds when not in the death, do ya reckon after another death seat today (that simply wasn't necessary!!!) and now another 7th, that hopefully in his future races, depending on circumstances, that Five Star Trump who shows great promise to win a race at this level, may not be PUT in the death in the near future????????????

yes, I'm talking thru my pocket :)

[Messenger]

Kevo...

The man responsible for thankfully giving us the "odds-on FAVS only win about 50% of the time" rule, of all people should know that when you apply that rule to a trotter, particularly a low grade trotter in his case who is still pretty much young and still learning/maturing, even tho highly talented, theres maybe More than a 50% chance you may not win...
Clever and safe from the bookies/tote but as Steve said, trotters, Plan B!!!
Not too many mind you had Looks A Moral winning at about $45 tho, and hows this, he used the non-existent SL at Ballarat, leader drifted up!

Fair enough Ash and from what I have read of the Wagering Report so far - it could well have been all stable money creating silly odds ons

[Messenger]

Neville Vaughan looked pretty impressive winning the St Arnaud Cup in his 148th start Ash

http://www.harness.org.au/meeting-results.cfm?mc=SA091114&ms=vic#SAC09111407

[Adaptor]

Next Saturday night at Lord's Raceway Bendigo, on the 60th Anniversary of the first meeting on November 17th, 1954, one of the races is a Veteran Drivers' T1 or better Trot.
All of the drivers have driven at least one top notch trotter.......can you add to the information that will be included in the racebook?

BENDIGO SMARTPLUMB VETERAN DRIVERS TROT, November 15th 2014
Drivers who have played a significant part in Victorian and Australian Harness Racing history headline the field for the Bendigo Harness Racing Club’s Veteran Driver's Trot , at the Anniversary Cup meeting on Saturday, November 15.

Graeme Lang, Peter Manning, Jim O’Sullivan and Neville Welsh have all won either Australian or Victorian driving and training premierships.

Group Races won by the drivers include Hunter Cups, Bendigo, Ballarat, Echuca and Geelong Cups, Kilmore Cups, Sydney Easter Trotters Cups, Dullard Cup. Oaks, Derbies, Breeder’s Crowns and more.

The wizard of Great Western Peter Manning, a perpetual Leading Trainer and Brian Gath who made his name on the tight circuit at the Royal Melbourne Showgrounds, have also been invited.
Master reinsman Gath has more than 3000 wins to his credit.
Interdominion winning drivers Graeme Lang, Jim O’Sullivan, Jim O’Sullivan, Cliff Powell and Brian Gath are in the field.
Dick Lee has won four derbies as well as a host of trotting cups.
Keith Pratt ( Bendigo) , Jack Sullivan (Woodend), Colin Redwood ( Bridgewater) , Graeme Whittle and Glenn Williams (Bacchus Marsh) , all with over 40 years training and driving experience will contest the mobile trot.
The Veteran Drivers race will be one of a host of on-course highlights complementing the Anniversary Cup meeting at Lord’s Raceway Bendigo on Saturday, November 15.

Veteran Driver’s Challenge Participants:

Brian Gath
Hall of Famer, resident of Longlea. A member of the famous Gath dynasty. Drove his first winner at the Royal Melbourne Show in 1960. Has trained and driven multiple champions from Corop McEwen, to Rocknrolla and Safari. Won the 1978 Inter Dominion Pacers Final with Markovina and finished second with Franco Tiger in1992 and Shakamaker (2002). Has driven over 3000 winners in Australasia and at the Meadowlands in the U.S.A.

Graeme Lang
The Gordon Rothacker medallist for 2013. Started as a teenager in the 1950’s at Watchem in the Mallee. Dairy farmed near Warragul, while training and driving, before moving to Romsey and then Melton. Leading Australian driver in 1979. Father of leading trainer/drivers Gavin and Chris, grandfather of Chris Jnr. Trained and drove Inter Dominion standouts Billboard (1980-4th), Scotch Notch (1983-1st, 1984-2nd, 1985-1st), Dark Edge (1992-8th), Wagon Apollo (1996-3rd, 1997-2nd), Desperate Comment NZ (1997-5th). Sent Champion Scotch Notch to the US.in 1986 after she won two Inter Dominions and recorded 1.56.6.

Ian (Dick) Lee
Won this race last year. Multiple Derby winning trainer/driver, who spent time in Wales at Prestatyn Raceway in the 1970’s. Top horses include 4 times pacing Derby winner Rufus Youngblood, Bendigo Cup winner Rhodonite, Dullard Cup winning trotters Glenfield Girl and Game Ebony, and Hamden’s Pride. Recent winners include Reed’s May and Dora Pepperell. Trains at Weering in the Western District.
Peter Manning.
2007 Rothacker medallist. Master trainer of juveniles before expanding to train a large team at Great Western. Leading Australian trainer in 2004/5. His three training/driving daughters include world record setting driver Kerryn. Standout horses include Kathryn Dancer, Pelicanrama, the champion international trotter Knight Pistol and 1996 Australian 2yo Pacer of the Year, Sheza Mona.
Jim O’Sullivan
Leading Australian trainer in 1978 and trainer/driver in 1979. Trained and drove standouts including Margaret Shannon, Quite Famous and It’s Motor Power. He is a dual Inter Dominion winning driver, winning the 1987 Inter Dominion Pacers final with My Lightning Blue and the 1989 trotting final with Yankee Loch. Trains locally at Maiden Gully.
Cliff Powell
Trains at Elmore. First winning drive at Bendigo was Convive. Cliff trained and drove Derby Royale to victory in the 1978 Inter Dominion Trotter’s final in Melbourne. Has trained and driven top notchers Our Grattan, Modern Man, Belgian Accent (Shepparton Cup) Bendigo Cup winner Taronga, and Paula Morley (Victorian Mares Championship and Spring Cup).

Keith Pratt
Won the first edition of this race in 2012. Keith’s father Cyril was the original Lord’s Raceway track curator. Keith, an HRV distinguished service award recipient, was long time Clerk of Course at Lords Raceway. He drove his first winner at Echuca in 1966. Still trains and drives a team from his property, less than 2 Km from the track. He rates Crystal Sunset, Pannoo Lass, Torvanger and Arrogant Al among his best horses.

Colin Redwood
First drove in 1954. Drove Great Princess at the first meeting at Lord’s Raceway. A member of Bridgewater’s Redwood family, immortalized by the annual Redwood 2yo trotters’ classic at Maryborough, named for Colin’s father Hugh. Colin and brothers Noel and Albert all trained and drove successfully. Rock n Dale raced in two Interdominions,1976-4th and 1978-8th, and won the NSW Easter Cup in both 1973 and 1974. Other trotters of note include Mount Alm. He represented Australia at the 1996 World Amateur Drivers Championship in Italy. Colin has trained over 200 winners since taking out his training licence in the mid-1970s.

Jack Sullivan
A hobby Trainer / Driver based at Woodend. Originally worked for well known trainer Pat Cooper at Doreen . Drove his first winner in 1979. Trained and drove Miss Excellence to win the 1993 NSW Trotters Derby. Recent winners include Michaels Mename ( 2013 Redwood Consolation) and Nicky Newkie.


Neville Welsh
The 2012 Gordon Rothacker Medallist, and Hall of Famer who has driven winners in every decade since the 1950s. Began his career driving track work at a very young for father Lew first at Beaufort, then Sydenham, and secured his first win, Sea Witch at Horsham, aged just sixteen. Career highlights include the 1971 AG Hunter Cup aboard Son of Nancy and the 1974 National Drivers Invitation at the Melbourne showgrounds on Truant Armagh. Most notable however were his record breaking premierships in 1970/71 and 1971/72 where he drove 81 and 84 winners for the season respectively. Recently trained a double at Echuca.

Graeme Whittle
A hobby owner/trainer/driver who had good horses and a lot of success at the Showgrounds and Moonee Valley. Some of his good horses were Tweedsmuire, (1977 Stawell Cup), Joueur (Echuca Cup), Slow Coach and Melpark Sunrise which won the Tontine for Trotters. Graeme trains at Bacchus Marsh.

Glen Williams
Trainer and drove initially with father Les, at Digger’s Rest and Woodvale, then Sebastian and Bacchus Marsh. Glen drove Truscott Boy and Lord Setay early in their careers, and won two VL Dullard Cups on top trotter Bundanoon Prince. Recent winners include Kadabra Dynasty.

[Maorisidol]

Neville Vaughan looked pretty impressive winning the St Arnaud Cup in his 148th start Ash

http://www.harness.org.au/meeting-results.cfm?mc=SA091114&ms=vic#SAC09111407

Quite right Kev and i think was it Brent in another thread who mentioned that he went like a rocket! Was a nice return to the winners circle for him after getting it right against our 2nd tier Vic trotters.
He is a very fast SS beginner and these Country Cups will have him front and centre if he continues to trot.

[Maorisidol]

Next Saturday night at Lord's Raceway Bendigo, on the 60th Anniversary of the first meeting on November 17th, 1954, one of the races is a Veteran Drivers' T1 or better Trot.
All of the drivers have driven at least one top notch trotter.......can you add to the information that will be included in the racebook?

BENDIGO SMARTPLUMB VETERAN DRIVERS TROT, November 15th 2014
Drivers who have played a significant part in Victorian and Australian Harness Racing history headline the field for the Bendigo Harness Racing Club’s Veteran Driver's Trot , at the Anniversary Cup meeting on Saturday, November 15.

Graeme Lang, Peter Manning, Jim O’Sullivan and Neville Welsh have all won either Australian or Victorian driving and training premierships.

Group Races won by the drivers include Hunter Cups, Bendigo, Ballarat, Echuca and Geelong Cups, Kilmore Cups, Sydney Easter Trotters Cups, Dullard Cup. Oaks, Derbies, Breeder’s Crowns and more.

The wizard of Great Western Peter Manning, a perpetual Leading Trainer and Brian Gath who made his name on the tight circuit at the Royal Melbourne Showgrounds, have also been invited.
Master reinsman Gath has more than 3000 wins to his credit.
Interdominion winning drivers Graeme Lang, Jim O’Sullivan, Jim O’Sullivan, Cliff Powell and Brian Gath are in the field.
Dick Lee has won four derbies as well as a host of trotting cups.
Keith Pratt ( Bendigo) , Jack Sullivan (Woodend), Colin Redwood ( Bridgewater) , Graeme Whittle and Glenn Williams (Bacchus Marsh) , all with over 40 years training and driving experience will contest the mobile trot.
The Veteran Drivers race will be one of a host of on-course highlights complementing the Anniversary Cup meeting at Lord’s Raceway Bendigo on Saturday, November 15.

Veteran Driver’s Challenge Participants:

Brian Gath
Hall of Famer, resident of Longlea. A member of the famous Gath dynasty. Drove his first winner at the Royal Melbourne Show in 1960. Has trained and driven multiple champions from Corop McEwen, to Rocknrolla and Safari. Won the 1978 Inter Dominion Pacers Final with Markovina and finished second with Franco Tiger in1992 and Shakamaker (2002). Has driven over 3000 winners in Australasia and at the Meadowlands in the U.S.A.

Graeme Lang
The Gordon Rothacker medallist for 2013. Started as a teenager in the 1950’s at Watchem in the Mallee. Dairy farmed near Warragul, while training and driving, before moving to Romsey and then Melton. Leading Australian driver in 1979. Father of leading trainer/drivers Gavin and Chris, grandfather of Chris Jnr. Trained and drove Inter Dominion standouts Billboard (1980-4th), Scotch Notch (1983-1st, 1984-2nd, 1985-1st), Dark Edge (1992-8th), Wagon Apollo (1996-3rd, 1997-2nd), Desperate Comment NZ (1997-5th). Sent Champion Scotch Notch to the US.in 1986 after she won two Inter Dominions and recorded 1.56.6.

Ian (Dick) Lee
Won this race last year. Multiple Derby winning trainer/driver, who spent time in Wales at Prestatyn Raceway in the 1970’s. Top horses include 4 times pacing Derby winner Rufus Youngblood, Bendigo Cup winner Rhodonite, Dullard Cup winning trotters Glenfield Girl and Game Ebony, and Hamden’s Pride. Recent winners include Reed’s May and Dora Pepperell. Trains at Weering in the Western District.
Peter Manning.
2007 Rothacker medallist. Master trainer of juveniles before expanding to train a large team at Great Western. Leading Australian trainer in 2004/5. His three training/driving daughters include world record setting driver Kerryn. Standout horses include Kathryn Dancer, Pelicanrama, the champion international trotter Knight Pistol and 1996 Australian 2yo Pacer of the Year, Sheza Mona.
Jim O’Sullivan
Leading Australian trainer in 1978 and trainer/driver in 1979. Trained and drove standouts including Margaret Shannon, Quite Famous and It’s Motor Power. He is a dual Inter Dominion winning driver, winning the 1987 Inter Dominion Pacers final with My Lightning Blue and the 1989 trotting final with Yankee Loch. Trains locally at Maiden Gully.
Cliff Powell
Trains at Elmore. First winning drive at Bendigo was Convive. Cliff trained and drove Derby Royale to victory in the 1978 Inter Dominion Trotter’s final in Melbourne. Has trained and driven top notchers Our Grattan, Modern Man, Belgian Accent (Shepparton Cup) Bendigo Cup winner Taronga, and Paula Morley (Victorian Mares Championship and Spring Cup).

Keith Pratt
Won the first edition of this race in 2012. Keith’s father Cyril was the original Lord’s Raceway track curator. Keith, an HRV distinguished service award recipient, was long time Clerk of Course at Lords Raceway. He drove his first winner at Echuca in 1966. Still trains and drives a team from his property, less than 2 Km from the track. He rates Crystal Sunset, Pannoo Lass, Torvanger and Arrogant Al among his best horses.

Colin Redwood
First drove in 1954. Drove Great Princess at the first meeting at Lord’s Raceway. A member of Bridgewater’s Redwood family, immortalized by the annual Redwood 2yo trotters’ classic at Maryborough, named for Colin’s father Hugh. Colin and brothers Noel and Albert all trained and drove successfully. Rock n Dale raced in two Interdominions,1976-4th and 1978-8th, and won the NSW Easter Cup in both 1973 and 1974. Other trotters of note include Mount Alm. He represented Australia at the 1996 World Amateur Drivers Championship in Italy. Colin has trained over 200 winners since taking out his training licence in the mid-1970s.

Jack Sullivan
A hobby Trainer / Driver based at Woodend. Originally worked for well known trainer Pat Cooper at Doreen . Drove his first winner in 1979. Trained and drove Miss Excellence to win the 1993 NSW Trotters Derby. Recent winners include Michaels Mename ( 2013 Redwood Consolation) and Nicky Newkie.


Neville Welsh
The 2012 Gordon Rothacker Medallist, and Hall of Famer who has driven winners in every decade since the 1950s. Began his career driving track work at a very young for father Lew first at Beaufort, then Sydenham, and secured his first win, Sea Witch at Horsham, aged just sixteen. Career highlights include the 1971 AG Hunter Cup aboard Son of Nancy and the 1974 National Drivers Invitation at the Melbourne showgrounds on Truant Armagh. Most notable however were his record breaking premierships in 1970/71 and 1971/72 where he drove 81 and 84 winners for the season respectively. Recently trained a double at Echuca.

Graeme Whittle
A hobby owner/trainer/driver who had good horses and a lot of success at the Showgrounds and Moonee Valley. Some of his good horses were Tweedsmuire, (1977 Stawell Cup), Joueur (Echuca Cup), Slow Coach and Melpark Sunrise which won the Tontine for Trotters. Graeme trains at Bacchus Marsh.

Glen Williams
Trainer and drove initially with father Les, at Digger’s Rest and Woodvale, then Sebastian and Bacchus Marsh. Glen drove Truscott Boy and Lord Setay early in their careers, and won two VL Dullard Cups on top trotter Bundanoon Prince. Recent winners include Kadabra Dynasty.

Thanks for that trip down memory lane Noel, a lot of great names in there, horses as well as humans! I think you covered things really well, sorry i can't add to any of that myself!
Great to see these guys get a race like this, nice to see them going around!

[Messenger]

Fantastic stuff Noel. I cannot add any facts but if that is a draft of what is going in the racebook I might suggest a couple of 'typo' like corrections. Should be a great event

[Race For Fun]

Thanks for the infomation Noel, and welcome. Is there an age limit to get an invite to this race (over what age)? I wonder how many winners these gentlemen have driven between them? How many of them still drive on a regular basis (Brian Gath but who else)? Being from NSW some names are not as well known to me as others but good to get some information on all the drivers.

[Adaptor]

Thanks for the feedback. The Bendigo racebook publisher will make corrections. The fields are out for the race...a T 1-3 mobile trot. It's great that trainers have nominated a good field of horses, with winning form in the last three starts for four of the runners . It's race 3 on the card at 7:30 Nov 15th.
The field: http://www.harness.org.au/fields.cfm?mc=BN151114#3

The Veteran Drivers race is in it's third year. The age of the drivers is 65+, so we had HRV list the current licensed drivers from oldest down to 65 and went from there. The drivers are allocated horses by random draw.
As for the drivers..Brian Gath, Jim O'Sullivan, Glenn Williams, Dick Lee, Graham Lang (aged 84) and Keith Pratt drive regularly. Jack Sullivan drove a winner at the St Arnaud Cup meeting last Sunday. Neville Welsh drives his young trotters in races before handing over to son Clinton. Cliff Powell drove recently at Kilmore. The others train teams of horses (Peter Manning had 2 winners at last week, ) that race regularly, so the field is made up of active participants. Last year the stable area cleared out as everyone watched these veterans of the Melbourne Showgrounds and Moonee Valley ( Harold Park and Wayville as well ) show that they are very capable skilled horsemen.

[Adaptor]

Re the Veteran Driver's Race total winners..
Estimation...Brian Gath has over 3000 winners, and Graeme Lang is well over 2000 for a start. Neville Welsh has been driving since 1950s. I would estimate somewhere around 8000 winners or more among them.
I'll try and get winning numbers from each of the drivers on Saturday night.

[Race For Fun]

Thanks Noel for the info. Makes you wonder how many of the junior drivers of the last and next 10 years will still be in the game after as many years as these gents.

[Adaptor]

Did anyone see the Monte Trot at Cranbourne tonight? Son Of An Earl with Daryl Douglas, 2.01.2 from a standing start ( off 60 behind) . First time I believe that they were able to race tactically. With the change in conditions for Monte Racing, and stable like Matt Craven shortly to enter trotters, there may be a future for this>
http://www.harness.org.au/meeting-results.cfm?mc=CR221114&ms=vic#CRC22111408
Thoughts anyone?

[Messenger]

You convinced me to have a look Noel
It was by far the best Monte race I have seen (only a few mind you)
I know we probably should not compare them to gallopers but compared to them I am afraid IMO they look ordinary
Reminds me of watching walkers (athletes, I am talking about) - you get the feeling they really want to break into a faster gait
You would think if it was to catch on, that rider weights has to come into it at some point

[Smoken]

LMFAO @ the walkers comment :p Not sure if it wil really catch on in Australia?

[Adaptor]

There is a need to get full fields.
There is a lot of time and effort ( misguided or not ) by HRV to get this to work, as part of the Eurupean-Australasian Trotters ( Great Southern Star) initiative.
Have a look at this mobile Monte in Sweden , to see what a race with a full field is like.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F55G_zfjvM8

[Messenger]

Thanks Noel
I noticed gallopers are even a problem over there
I think the horse coming off 60m (40m behind the others) tonight was more interesting
I know that youtube was 2009 but I thought our jocks looked more comfortable on their horses than the Swedes - surprising

[Maorisidol]

Thanks Noel
I noticed gallopers are even a problem over there
I think the horse coming off 60m (40m behind the others) tonight was more interesting
I know that youtube was 2009 but I thought our jocks looked more comfortable on their horses than the Swedes - surprising

Yes was a good Monte that one, liked the way Tsonga was catching the winner, i dont doubt if it was 2000m or more Tsonga would have won.
We certainly are lacking numbers in these races especially since the main driver behind the concept initially C Lang, has reduced his stable numbers which is a shame.

How was Keystone Del at Melton last Fri night? Smashed 'em. Based on that no Aus horse can beat him right now!
Mister Zion reverted to a pace after a little skip and pulled up, will he continue?????

[Smoken]

What's happened to my MHE his last few runs? He's much better than that.. I would like to see Spider Girl up against Keystone Del. I'd say Mr Zion will continue on.

[Maorisidol]

We saw an impressive win by regally bred Gus An Maori at his 2nd race start on Friday night at Ballarat. This Colt is by Angus Hall out of Sumthinhaboutmaori so hopefully he may continue to race as well as and better than his last 400m of 28.6 after sitting in the death for the majority of the race.

Great run by Flying Isa to win over the 3000m at Menangle, bolted in, Our Overanova capitulated badly, out of character...???
Interesting to watch a horse who for essentially his whole career in Victoria was a flyer at the standing start come to NSW in Tritton stable with Ms Panella driving and gallop at the start, it "looks like" she really doesnt know how to drive squaregaiters, the stable did no good with another trotter that was racing well in Qld who came to them and had maybe 2-3 races galloping and tailed off each race after they gave up and essentially, i believe i read in the media, admitted they didnt know what to do with trotters.
Yet they take on Si capisco who was a foolproof trotter and very fast SS horse, hopefully results and a little SS practice may benefit.

[Maorisidol]

I'm Stately wins Shepp trial.
Great to see him back, hope he gets to the races soon when ready!
Connections must be happy to see him nearly back! I am!
http://www.sheppartonhrc.com.au/news.php?id=682

[Messenger]

Reckon you could rustle me up one of those Finnish money-spinners Ash?

[Maorisidol]

Reckon you could rustle me up one of those Finnish money-spinners Ash?

Huh???????

[Messenger]

Huh???????

You're slipping Ash - I want a Kvintet Avenger :)

[Maorisidol]

You're slipping Ash - a want a Kvintet Avenger :)

Ah yes, isnt he dominating at the moment. 9 starts in Aust so far has earned him about 50K. Will be interesting when he progresses up to the Keystone Del, My High Expectations leaugue, but everything so far says he could be challenging for maybe the Exacta behind Del at least.
$1.50 for Del tonight on Beteasy, $1.35 TAB in the Bill Collins Mile at Cranbourne

[Adaptor]

Can any of the local trotters beat Keystone Del in the V.L. Dullard Cup at Ballarat on Saturday night? He was convincing last week at Cranbourne despite not handling the track ( he moved off the pegs on a couple of the corners.
http://www.harness.org.au/fields.cfm?mc=BA131214#5

[Maorisidol]

Can any of the local trotters beat Keystone Del in the V.L. Dullard Cup at Ballarat on Saturday night? He was convincing last week at Cranbourne despite not handling the track ( he moved off the pegs on a couple of the corners.
http://www.harness.org.au/fields.cfm?mc=BA131214#5

Hey Noel, based on what Del has done in his last couple of months, no-one can beat him in Australia when hes at his best.
Brunelleschi is fresh up from a spell and if he improves again on his last campaign he may be the one who may test Del especially as he gets fitter.
Spidergirl who rose many rungs up the ladder last campaign is still yet to come back and she also can push him.
My High Expectations scratched which is a shame, obviously pulled hard last start following Del in the sit and finished way out the back having a few oxygen problems!
He doesnt seem to be himself this campaign unfortunately, hopefully David can resurrect him!
El Paco should ping out and lead in the Dullard Cup with Stoned I Am into the death seat waiting for Cold Sister to come over and give him cover. Then they will all be waiting for Del to either come around to the chair soon after or be 3 wide at the bell.
Del wins for mine, Brunelleschi follows him home for 2nd/3rd with El Paco battling away first up for 3rd/4th...

The very smart Majestic Grace should win no problems (if she behaves) in the Vicbred Platinum Trotting Mares Sprint Championship and Savannah Jay Jay will prove fitter after his first up 3rd last week in the last race.

Backtrack to Fridays Yarra Valley Trotters Cup; call a plumber and get him to remove your kitchen sink, because you will want to put that on Kvintet Avenger as well as anything else you can find down the back of the couch, Paris Pepperel for the Exacta and a small dabble on Michael Thomas for a place, who is quietly running into form for Lisa Miles

[brent_L]

I reckon Cold Sister will cross them Ash and is a mighty chance to place. Can't find a decent price unfortunately, so will stick with Del in weekend multis @ $1.32.

[Maorisidol]

I reckon Cold Sister will cross them Ash and is a mighty chance to place. Can't find a decent price unfortunately, so will stick with Del in weekend multis @ $1.32.

El Paco has actually crossed Cold Sister previously and theres no sprint lane at Ballarat for Paco to get that opportunity, so id be surprised if he handed up to her.
Sister is $2.81 Fixed for a place on TAB...

[Adaptor]

Keystone Del is the real deal....11 in a row with an easy win at Ballarat in the VL Dullard Cup.

Majestic Grace ( by the fastest son of Angus Hall- Majestic Son) is good too !

With a good win at Bendigo, Somethinaboutmaori's Angus Hall son GusnMaori showed that he is good too: http://www.harnesslink.com/Australia/Living-up-to-their-breeding

Angus Hall was the leading North American trotting sire before being overtaken by Kadabra, Donato Hanover and Cantab Hall

[jake80]

For those that love trotters, sad news that the great True Roman had to be euthanised today. Vale Jake!

[Maorisidol]

Keystone Del is the real deal....11 in a row with an easy win at Ballarat in the VL Dullard Cup.

Majestic Grace ( by the fastest son of Angus Hall- Majestic Son) is good too !

With a good win at Bendigo, Somethinaboutmaori's Angus Hall son GusnMaori showed that he is good too: http://www.harnesslink.com/Australia/Living-up-to-their-breeding

Angus Hall was the leading North American trotting sire before being overtaken by Kadabra, Donato Hanover and Cantab Hall

Yes Noel, it was a great weekend for the trotters starting with Kvintet Avenger winning at what i thought was generous odds of $1.70 in the Yarra Valley Cup on Friday,
and finishing today with Neville Vaughan bolting away with the Wedderburn Trotters Cup and personally for me round 2 of the "Kiesey Cup" at Mt Gambier with the Fav winning again...
Majestic Grace is this prep proving she will be more than a challenge for her star stablemate Claudys Princess whenever they meet, and great to see a "new" Maori clan member showing he will be more than a force to be reckoned with if he keeps his current form up!

[Maorisidol]

For those that love trotters, sad news that the great True Roman had to be euthanised today. Vale Jake!

Ah very sad!...

[Smoken]

May True Roman be running free in the clouds :(

[Adaptor]

There was a double page feature on True Roman, and his former trainer Graeme Johannesen in Saturday's Bendigo Advertiser...sad to hear that the 34yo died the day after the news article. 73 wins .

http://www.bendigoadvertiser.com.au/story/2760642/roman-a-true-champion-of-the-track/?cs=81

[teecee]

Wow 34 years young. What a great innings from the horse and true testament to the care of his connections.
One of my earliest Oz idols from the days when technology couldn't get racing news across the ditch in real time.


Thank heavens for a scratchy radio reception after sunset!!!

[Toohard]

Ash..believe Roy Hobbs have accident today and no longer with us. Too sad. RIP

[Richard prior]

That's very sad news indeed Paul.

[Maorisidol]

Ash..believe Roy Hobbs have accident today and no longer with us. Too sad. RIP



Holy crap.
That's terrible for any horse regardless of ability, he had quite a future he was building!
Whata shame, very sad, thnx for letting us know Paul! :(

[Smoken]

So sorry for Roy Hobbs and his connections:(
Not long after True Roman passed away.

[teecee]

For those that love trotters, sad news that the great True Roman had to be euthanised today. Vale Jake!


I have just added the following article of his record
http://www.harnesslink.com/News/Champion-trotter-succumbs-to-old-age

[Maorisidol]

Congrats to Brian Keisey for his work and success now with Its Not Dark Yet!
She has now won 6 from her last 9 starts and is trotting fabulously.
Superbly driven by Michael Bellman on Fri night at Shepparton, her nose was firmly attached to the helmet of favourite Tyron Lochie's driver Mark Pitt and followed him throughout the whole race, it was a great "tagging" display to use an AFL term. The fav has now been rolled 3 times in a row at odds-on.
Its Not Dark Yet ran past him quite easily and is getting seemingly better each run, well done BK!

Speaking of Favs getting rolled multiple times Be Free Dreams while last night 2nd Fav, again muffed the SS and finished near last costing im sure many punters a dollar or 2...
Top effort from the recently unlucky Michael Thomas to roll Cold Sister and Brunelleschi at $20.70!! He has been showing a win is imminent but to be honest i didnt think he could roll the the other placegetters...bugger! had him for 3rd and 4th in the first 4 but not up the top. just goes to show Favs get rolled and with the first 4 paying $8300 im not upset at all!!! ah well i did get a good fixed odds place price...

The 3yo races at Melton last night saw 2 Hot Favs have a night off! Both Gus An Maori and the filly Sky Petite both galloped and particularly the filly just couldnt go at all, was rough as.
All Under Control for Brent Lilley put it all together at $40 grabbing the now consistent Casa Fundada who did most of the work out front, and again Zaire Diva at good odds grabbed 3rd. And the other Lilley horse running 4th also showed similar improvement for the stable.
In the boys race Aim For the Moon led all the way and there were many big runs including Gus who lost a lot of ground at the start and did a good job to finish as close as he did, the runner up top effort only going down by a half neck after death seating and catching leader at every stride.
These guys look like they will have many great battles as they all mature in coming months.

And the Boss Man dominant later in the night

[Messenger]

Your mob have won Ash. I will have to start following the trotters again (I actually used to 40yrs ago) as there will be more trots races than pacing races soon
7/11 split this weekend in Vic

[Maorisidol]

4YO Derby???
The first heat of the Victorian Trotting Championship at Maryborough on Monday resembles a potential 3YO Derby re-run. The first 6 horses are 4YO's and include the first up after a year Champion 2YO I'm Stately, Group 1 Winner after 2 starts Imamenace, Derby Consolation Winner Lightning Calder, Group 1 Redwood winner Daenerys Targaryen, the very consistent and improving Guiltless and actual Derby Winner Illawong Helios who is first up since the Derby. It is a SS event over 2690m so should be an intriguing race to see how these guys all come up after quite a big spell for some of them. None more than I'm Stately who missed his whole 3YO season but who dominated his first year winning 8 from 11 with 3 2nds and $183,000!
The very imposing Imamenace faces his first SS race but interestingly has Chris Alford up for his first drive on him.

Tonite we see Keystone Del run around at $1.10!!!
Then the very exciting Glenferrie Typhoon resumes after blousing ex stablemate Blitzthemcalder when last in, he has had a few trials and ran some very quick times so seems primed to run a big race first up while facing a difficult barrier inside the 2nd row over the 1720m sprint trip.
This is followed by a very even T1-T2 sprint trip and a T0-T1 Final where the Chris Lang trained Majestic Ess Jay will meet the back row for the first time in quite a while, so this will test his mettle a little...

Off to Stawell for the Trotters Cup on Sunday and we see the return to the track of the very talented but green Maorisfavouritesun and also Unico Crown taking on the fit Action Kosmos and the in-form small track loving Neville Vaughan. Watch for Neville to try ping around early and run them off their legs if the chance arises. Either Wildenstein or Action Kosmos should lead and both will hand up to Neville. Unico has trialled recently against Glenferrie Typhoon running very fast last sectionals and he has 1 start 1 win at Stawell so again looks like a good race.

[Maorisidol]

Yeah would have gone out to Melton tonite for 4 Trotters races, but a bit too far to go from Broadbeach right now!
Very exciting racing coming up with these 4YO's and others coming back in, get on it Kev!

[Amlin]

Last four for the trot events so they can be beamed into Europe with live betting. Hrv receives funds from this venture so a smart move and apparently when done in the past has generated some nice levels of overseas interest.

[Adaptor]

Kyle
The last four races on the Bendigo Cup program on Jan 17th are going live to France. There will be an 8 minute intro by Rob Auber and then the 4 trotting races.
I think the Aldebaran Park Maori Mile for open class trotters will be one of these.

In the US, they have just run a trial with a Sunday morning card at Yonkers ( starting around 10:30 am) going live into France with co-mingled parimutual ( TAB) pools. Apparently the results have been encouraging.

[Messenger]

I'm Stately, winner of 8 with 3 seconds from 11 starts makes his comeback at 3.55pm at Maryborough tomorrow after nearly 17mths away (and having completely missed his 3yo season)
It is however a hot field in this heat with the derby winner Illawong Helios also resuming after nearly 6mths off

[Richard prior]

Im Stately trialled pretty nice at a Shepparton on the 31/12/14 and looks like he's back on track.

[Zanzi_Bromac]

Interested to hear the views on the trotter Redy To Race?


I've followed the Red River Hanover gelding pretty closely and always thought he has loads of ability but average manners.

[brent_L]

Im Stately trialled pretty nice at a Shepparton on the 31/12/14 and looks like he's back on track.
He went nice today......driven the way u would expect being 1st up for so long.

imo the big horse was going to win before he galloped. Mistake prone horses must be incredibly frustrating to their connections.

[Maorisidol]

He went nice today......driven the way u would expect being 1st up for so long.

imo the big horse was going to win before he galloped. Mistake prone horses must be incredibly frustrating to their connections.

Hey Brent, was a great drive to nurse the little guy in his first race in nearly 17 months and not to mention over the long 2690m trip of which he had never raced!
Had he been fit i have no doubt he would have won, thats what the winner had on most of todays front line, race fitness...
And was a shame the big guy Imamenace or "Lurch" (as seems his stable name is judging by the lady yelling "go Lurch" at the Mile mark!!!) galloped when he did, would've made things very interesting.
All makes for a very interesting Victorian Trotting Championship as todays first ups get fitter and go on to race in other things too!

[Messenger]

I didn't actually think the 3f was intentional - he had to go inside a galloper and then he got locked up

[Richard prior]

A race of many chances on the corner, A real spectacle and it was a pity Lurch broke as he would have been right in the finish, Im Stately's was a big run first up and he might have bawked just a wee bit when Lurch went off stride, Winner Definitley had fitness on her side and this is a real good bunch of young trotters coming through, Not a lot between quite a few of them.

[Maorisidol]

I didn't actually think the 3f was intentional - he had to go inside a galloper and then he got locked up

Sorry Kev, who/what is this about, has a post been deleted somewhere here???

[brent_L]

Sorry Kev, who/what is this about, has a post been deleted somewhere here???
I'll answer for Kev......it's re Im Stately's positioning being 3fence early on in yesterday's race.

[Messenger]

I'll answer for Kev......it's re Im Stately's positioning being 3fence early on in yesterday's race.

Thanks Brent. Didn't I say that? I am starting to wonder if Ash speaks the trotting dialect of English while I speak the pacing dialect :confused:

[Richard prior]

Thanks Brent. Didn't I say that? I am starting to wonder if Ash speaks the trotting dialect of English while I speak the pacing dialect :confused:

Sorry Kev, I was a bit confused also as I was thinking about the finish but Brent set me straight, I must have been having a Senior moment��

[Adaptor]

Bendigo voulant aller vivre en France sur Tasse Nuit ( That basically means that French punters can bet on the trots on Bendigo Cup night).

How exciting !! The last four races on Bendigo's Petstock Pacing Cup Race-night – on Saturday, January 17th are to be telecast live from Lords Raceway into France.

European harness racing is all trotting , so the vision of the Petstock Bendigo Pacing Cup will not be exported.

French punters will be able to view and bet on the last four Bendigo races including the Group 2 Aldebaran Park Maori Mile and the Vicbred Platinum Trotting Mares Sprint Championship Heat .

[Maorisidol]

Bendigo voulant aller vivre en France sur Tasse Nuit ( That basically means that French punters can bet on the trots on Bendigo Cup night).

How exciting !! The last four races on Bendigo's Petstock Pacing Cup Race-night – on Saturday, January 17th are to be telecast live from Lords Raceway into France.

European harness racing is all trotting , so the vision of the Petstock Bendigo Pacing Cup will not be exported.

French punters will be able to view and bet on the last four Bendigo races including the Group 2 Aldebaran Park Maori Mile and the Vicbred Platinum Trotting Mares Sprint Championship Heat .

Last 4 races at Ballarat Saturday night are for Trotters too!

Heat 2 of Victorian Trotting Championship was a breeze for the well bred Maybetothemax who seems to be putting things together after a scratchy start to his career, not a fast Mile Rate but a nice 28.4 last quarter, he will challenge the Maryborough participants of a few days ago.

Nice clash between Kvintet Avenger, Cold Sister and new NZ arrival Realmein at Melton fri night, then Pretty Sunday off 10m goes against Neville Vaughan 30m in SA Trotters Cup Sat night and Sunday the Horsham Trotters cup sees The Boss Man on front row vs Flying Isa and Brunelleschi off 10m.

[Messenger]

It is easy to convert me when the best are going around Ash but I worry about races like the 3rd on the Horsham program - 6/12 are ODS.
Only 7 for the Trotters Cup is a little skinny don't you think

[brent_L]

Last 4 races at Ballarat Saturday night are for Trotters too!

Heat 2 of Victorian Trotting Championship was a breeze for the well bred Maybetothemax who seems to be putting things together after a scratchy start to his career, not a fast Mile Rate but a nice 28.4 last quarter, he will challenge the Maryborough participants of a few days ago.

Nice clash between Kvintet Avenger, Cold Sister and new NZ arrival Realmein at Melton fri night, then Pretty Sunday off 10m goes against Neville Vaughan 30m in SA Trotters Cup Sat night and Sunday the Horsham Trotters cup sees The Boss Man on front row vs Flying Isa and Brunelleschi off 10m.
I believe there was approx 1 million bucks turned over in Europe on the final 4 trotting events last Satdy night at Melton (apologies if that has already been mentioned on here). On that, you'd imagine there would only be more of the same to follow in the future right?

Some very good trotting events to supplement the pacing this weekend Ash......we are going to be needing a few selections from our resident trotting guru when u find time please.

[codywinnell]

Brent, yes over $1AUDmillion was wagered in France on those last four races. From what I gather the French punters will wager enormously on any Australian trotting product; be it a G1 or a run-of-the-mill T0. Those blocks of races will continue to be beamed into France and I'll be interested to see if the turnover figures continue to impress. Handy start!

[Maorisidol]

I believe there was approx 1 million bucks turned over in Europe on the final 4 trotting events last Satdy night at Melton (apologies if that has already been mentioned on here). On that, you'd imagine there would only be more of the same to follow in the future right?

Some very good trotting events to supplement the pacing this weekend Ash......we are going to be needing a few selections from our resident trotting guru when u find time please.

Hey Brent,
Sorry a bit late for the fact class in the wet at Melton just finished 5 mins ago and saw the Kiwi Realmein simply too good, mind you best eye catching run was Maori Time getting home very well. Kvintet had a tough run no doubt but i think at this point is finding this rise in class a little beyond him taking first place...

In SA Trotters Cup i guess you gotta go for Neville Vaughan primarily cos we know he will zoom around the track comfortably in comparison to Pretty Sunday, on paper that should be the Quinella/Exacta. Motu now struck his form in SA so he and or Me and Kel and Rejuvenation fighting out Tri and First 4 places.
Horsham Trotters Cup should see The Boss Man lead all the way based on his current and ever improving form. If he is to go to the next level he needs to win this i reckon even tho Scott Dyer has said he wont go right up to the top rung this campaign with him, he is only young.
Flying Isa racing really well of course and wouldnt surprise to see him win, Brunelleschi off just 10m instead of 30m like a few starts ago where he gave Cold Sister 20m headstart wont know himself actually so could produce a big one. 3 horses can win.

[Messenger]

On that performance Ash, it might be time for Rejuvenation to look further afield than SA

[Maorisidol]

On that performance Ash, it might be time for Rejuvenation to look further afield than SA

Yes he obviously is good but can also be unreliable, its like hes either good or bad!

[Messenger]

Not that it was really due to his handicap but Redy To Race's storming finish in the early trot at Horsham reminded me of how exciting handicap racing can be
(Blatant plug - nothing beats the 400m and further races at the Stawell Gift for this kind of excitement)

[Messenger]

Thank heavens the Horsham Trotter's Cup was not being beamed into France
Only 5 in the race and yet the topliners managed to F it up
(sorry Ash but that was like watching a dish-lickers demolition derby)

[Maorisidol]

Thank heavens the Horsham Trotter's Cup was not being beamed into France
Only 5 in the race and yet the topliners managed to F it up
(sorry Ash but that was like watching a dish-lickers demolition derby)

Very rare in this class and very out of character for The Boss Man...

[Maorisidol]

Great Article here on The Great Southern Star, Keystone Del and whats building up in the top echelon of squaregaiters...

http://www.harness.org.au/news-article.cfm?news_id=25446

[codywinnell]

Thanks for posting this link, Ash. I've previewed all the contenders for the Great Southern Star in the next Harness Racer (due out early Feb). Once printed I'll put it online. Was a lot of fun watching all the replays from NZ to get a guide on all the Kiwi aspirants. Plus of course digging through the local form to work out the leading aspirants who haven't won a qualifying race but will get a start on prizemoney earned.

I think Keystone Del has plenty more gears though... Scary stuff, really.

[brent_L]

The bubble showed signs of weakness last Sunday with The Boss Man, but tonight it went POP! In the same race Glenferrie Dreamer went nice after an early hiccup. Tell us u had some of that trifecta Ash??

The monte was again farcical......I wonder how long hrv will persist??

[Maorisidol]

The bubble showed signs of weakness last Sunday with The Boss Man, but tonight it went POP! In the same race Glenferrie Dreamer went nice after an early hiccup. Tell us u had some of that trifecta Ash??

The monte was again farcical......I wonder how long hrv will persist??
Yeah not good last night, small field many mistakes.
I think the mobile Montes also scare away competitors coz usually anyway, Sonofanearl is unbeatable from the flying start to lead and win and even more so over the sprint distance.
Can't believe he didn't win on protest as Thanesan paced from memory twice in run. That's instant dismissal in my eyes...
And no wasn't on the 22k Tri!
Top run yes from the Typhoon, his sprint will win him lots of cash in the future.
Equally as good in the race was Mister Independent, follow him, but don't tell anyone!!!
Also awesome to see Maorisfavouriteson ping thru to get 3rd. If he puts that ability in with improved manners he will up there with the Boss and Typhoon, so long as the Boss gets up off the canvas!

Big Nite tonite with Keystone Del against the strongest field he has faced, dare say he will win tho...
Majestic Grace a moral unless she gallops, however is showing way improved manners this time in.
Vincennes the other upcoming star at Menangle Tonite, have them all up for $1.30!!! ������ Alta Rihannah should b good odds Place.

[Messenger]

Maori Time's 1.55.6 in the Gp2 Maori Mile has smashed the Bendigo 1650m Rec and considering the extra 41m you would have to say it is probably a better effort than Dealornodeal's 1.55.5 for the 1609m

[Maorisidol]

Maori Time's 1.55.6 in the Gp2 Maori Mile has smashed the Bendigo 1650m Rec and considering the extra 41m you would have to say it is probably a better effort than Dealornodeal's 1.55.5 for the 1609m

Top run from Maori Time and maybe an even better drive from Chris Lang! He saw Del making his move and coming just after the bell and Chris took off! Did a 28 qtr down the back and to quote Chris Barsby- he got separation! Then she bravely hung on in the 29.3 last qtr and held off Elegant Image with Del 10m away from the winner.
Chris had a training double with Kyvalley Pink benefiting from hot fave Majestic Grace getting up to her old tricks and galloping at her hot odds of $1.30.
Realmein again slow from the mobile and settled near last, was never a contender. His mobile speed, or lack of it, will cost him...

Vincennes led all the way at Menangle over the Mile running 1:57.5 with some relaxed qtr's of 31.2 and 30.2, cant wait to see him back in Melton soon!

[jake80]

Maori Time..what a great run and all in a conventional sulky too...no "speed" sulky can replace what's between the shafts!

[Richard prior]

Maori Time..what a great run and all in a conventional sulky too...no "speed" sulky can replace what's between the shafts!

100% Correct!!

[Messenger]

Hey Ash there has to be a story behind Frank Evans trotter Upandgone winning at Ballarat at the short odds of 7/2 having never placed in his 10 career starts and having run last in his 4 starts this campaign since Dec

http://www.harness.org.au/meeting-results.cfm?mc=BA200115&ms=vic#BAC20011508

[brent_L]

Hey Ash there has to be a story behind Frank Evans trotter Upandgone winning at Ballarat at the short odds of 7/2 having never placed in his 10 career starts and having run last in his 4 starts this campaign since Dec

http://www.harness.org.au/meeting-results.cfm?mc=BA200115&ms=vic#BAC20011508
I did the form for last nights race Kev and bet accordingly. To my eye there were only two winning hopes. The 6/4 fav had 5 starts this season for a gold, silver, bronze & two 4ths. The winner, either side of her last start 8th had won two trials (one of them by 80 metres) but as you stated had run last at her previous 4 as come race day she continuously made errors. No prizes for guessing who I went with.

[Messenger]

That last start 8th was still last as you know but the trials (compulsory) no doubt explain a lot Brent and I had noted that there must have been some confidence and speccing for her at her previous start as she went from being an $80 pop the start before to a $16 pop. The joys of betting on trotters (wash my mouth out with soap Ash :eek:)

[brent_L]

That's what an 80m trial win will do to your price.
Whilst on temperamental trotters, there was another go around last night that would surely do connections heads in.....Frances Annie. Boy does she have some ability, it's a shame she more often than not thinks she is at Flemington. Taking $1.80 tote $2.40 Betfair about her will surely bring on the grey hair.

[Maorisidol]

That's what an 80m trial win will do to your price.
Whilst on temperamental trotters, there was another go around last night that would surely do connections heads in.....Frances Annie. Boy does she have some ability, it's a shame she more often than not thinks she is at Flemington. Taking $1.80 tote $2.40 Betfair about her will surely bring on the grey hair.

Some trotters have a lot of ability Brent but can also be total nutcases, if they go off, they go off and its goodnight! Frances Annie is one of those, you always need a plan B with horses like her if you bet outright on her, just too risky. What horses like her do is put up the opportunity for a longshot/medium shot to get up and the Tri or First 4 to pay well. Hinault is another similarly gifted looney tune!

[Messenger]

Could this be the death of the Monte Ash?
A horse 110m behind the winner running a place

http://www.harness.org.au/meeting-results.cfm?mc=GE250115&ms=vic#GEC25011508

[doncht]

I don't think so. I still think that there's still more left in the tank. https://imagicon.info/cat/10-3/smile4.png

[Maorisidol]

No Keystone Del in noms for Australian Trotters Champs heats this weekend!

[brent_L]

Welcome aboard Bruce.
Amarula is certainly a nice type. Caldow drove her a treat yesterday but she did the rest, beating up on a few nice types (males at that) in the process. The reason I was an interested viewer yesterday was because of her performance at her previous start at Ballarat. She went a low 42 second lead time (which is flying) and was still able to close in a sub 29 sec qrt. Sure, she got a nice 'breather' after the early burn but few trotting fillies are able to do what she did that night. Exciting times ahead for her connections no doubt.

[Maorisidol]

Check the race start replay of the first at Echuca tonite-50m backmarker Gidah nearly gets hip'n'shoulder from attendant, declared non runner cos he caused him to gallop.

http://www.harness.org.au/meeting-results.cfm?mc=EC290115&ms=vic#ECC29011508

[Richard prior]

Check the race start replay of the first at Echuca tonite-50m backmarker Gidah nearly gets hip'n'shoulder from attendant, declared non runner cos he caused him to gallop.

http://www.harness.org.au/meeting-results.cfm?mc=EC290115&ms=vic#ECC29011508

Bit like crossing the road without looking Ash.

[Messenger]

The way he went tonight Enjoy An Ale wont take long to join his beer drinking brothers in notching up $100k
He equalled the Ballarat 2200m SS Tk Rec
What a family
http://www.harness.org.au/meeting-results.cfm?mc=BA300115&ms=vic#BAC30011509
(snip from ClassicFamilies.net)

[Messenger]

I would not be surprised if Ash had something on Vote Pedro tonight

[Maorisidol]

The way he went tonight Enjoy An Ale wont take long to join his beer drinking brothers in notching up $100k
He equalled the Ballarat 2200m SS Tk Rec
What a family
http://www.harness.org.au/meeting-results.cfm?mc=BA300115&ms=vic#BAC30011509
(snip from ClassicFamilies.net)

Yes great effort in that race he is now stringing together consistent efforts that will enable him to fulfill his potential. Obviously David Van Ryn Trainer has ironed out some glitches he recently had, well done. Interesting with Another Clare having a revitalisation in the Marg Lee camp, first up win and then quite an aggressive serve to Enjoy An Ale at the bell by Jason Lee, a little bit over confident seemingly, finishing 18m from the winner who was clearly to good. No doubt Clare is a different horse to her last campaign tho, so well done Marg and co.

[Maorisidol]

I would not be surprised if Ash had something on Vote Pedro tonight

To b honest Kev, based on his previous run and recent improved efforts i was mainly on The Bohemian at a little higher odds, but he landed in the death and BUP...
I did have a little on Pedro tho but his stablemate put me out of Tri and First 4.
Brave run Claudy, thought she may b up against it first up in this class, she will b fitter next time and turn the tables im sure.

[Maorisidol]

AUSTRALIAN TROTTING CHAMPIONSHIP...
Top front running effort by Flying Isa running home in 27.8 and 27.8 if you dont mind!
Glenferrie Typhoon great effort from him to lead up the 3 wide line from the 800 which is not really his go, would love to see him draw better next week and settle close so he could unleash his powerful sprint.
Spidergirl of course huge really, lost 60-70m at the start and beaten by 25! If she steps she wins!
Good to see Brunelleschi easily win the other heat, nice drive G Sugars.
Realmein good but clearly beaten and Sheemon quite disappointing considering his recent form in NZ. Give him the benefit of the doubt he's way better than that.
Vincennes out the back all the way, looked for inside runs last 400, held up never got a chance to unwind the way he can, also dont discard at all.

And congrats to Peter Hornsby who bred, owns, trains Nica Macdonon to win the $30,000 Vicbred Platinum Mares Sprint Champs beating Majestic Grace who had to come from inside back row over the sprint trip. And when you are really good but dont always run straight, that barrier draw over that trip is very difficult especially when you have to be nursed at all times.

[squaregaiter]

Yes great effort in that race he is now stringing together consistent efforts that will enable him to fulfill his potential. Obviously David Van Ryn Trainer has ironed out some glitches he recently had, well done. Interesting with Another Clare having a revitalisation in the Marg Lee camp, first up win and then quite an aggressive serve to Enjoy An Ale at the bell by Jason Lee, a little bit over confident seemingly, finishing 18m from the winner who was clearly to good. No doubt Clare is a different horse to her last campaign tho, so well done Marg and co.


Credit must also be given to young Haden Gray, it is a brave man ( or woman) who takes him on when he is on song and after a few days of enforced holidays he has his "stop watch" working as shown when challenged at the bell, and with composure rates his horse well and then doesn't knock him about to win well

[squaregaiter]

What a fantastic sight to see those 3yo olds running to the bell at the Glen today ( albeit only 6 ), single file and showing just how good this gait looks compared to leather holding the gait together olollolol Trotters...................... a Beautiful sight !

[arlington]

What a fantastic sight to see those 3yo olds running to the bell at the Glen today ( albeit only 6 ), single file and showing just how good this gait looks compared to leather holding the gait together olollolol Trotters...................... a Beautiful sight !





Just teasing squaregaiter :)

[Richard prior]

I reckon Avonnova would get your attention Bruce.

[squaregaiter]

Your right Richard clever horse aye :)

[Maorisidol]

Just teasing squaregaiter :)

Bryan Healy in the gig???????

[arlington]

Bryan Healy in the gig???????


Bryan and the one and only.

[arlington]

For Ash and Bruce


http://www.harnesslink.com/News/Flashback-Friday....champ-honoured-at-Melton2?highlight=maori's idol

[squaregaiter]

Thanks for that Arlington-
I am sure everyone has seen this many times but is there ANYTHING more beautiful than a Squaregaiter in full flight, brings tears to your eyes
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JbxiMlYFitw

[arlington]

Maori's Idol in full flight, trotting of course. My no.1 sports horse of any code.

[squaregaiter]

This time next month we will have the first of the 2015 2yo's go around, so to help bolster the quality of our future ranks, lets hope there is another Eljaykay Phoenix that will step out, how time flys :)

[Messenger]

Have you got one picked out for me Ash ;)

http://www.harnesslink.com/Australia/Sale-part-of-stellar-pursist-weekend

[squaregaiter]

Have you got one picked out for me Ash ;)
http://www.harnesslink.com/Australia/Sale-part-of-stellar-pursist-weekend


Hi all, is it OK to talk about the TROTTING sales in this threat as it is a subject ? I would like to get thoughts on, or would it need to be placed under Breeding, Trotting, Sales, 2 Yo sales, if anyone could help would be great :)

[Messenger]

Hi Bruce, in the past TeeCee has given sales their own thread in the Breeding forum. So make a thread there with the sale name as the topic. You just have to hope people look in there to find it and respond.

Memo: Everyone do not forget to check out the Breeding forum regularly :D

[Messenger]

The way he went tonight Enjoy An Ale wont take long to join his beer drinking brothers in notching up $100k
He equalled the Ballarat 2200m SS Tk Rec
What a family
http://www.harness.org.au/meeting-results.cfm?mc=BA300115&ms=vic#BAC30011509
(snip from ClassicFamilies.net)

I am starting to worry - I'm tipping trotting winners now!

http://www.harness.org.au/meeting-results.cfm?mc=SP060215&ms=vic#SPC06021510

[Race For Fun]

Be careful Kevin once you are bitten by the beautiful square trotter bug they have you for life. :-)

[Maorisidol]

Great Melton Trotters Cup tonite, shame Keystone Del scratched.
Stent should be too good but likely leader Maori Time will be hard to get past and hopefully after some time off recently, My High Expectations can be back to his best.

Australiasian Trotters Champs will be a great race.
Script says Flying Isa to lead, i doubt Realmein would want that pressure.
Spidergirl is the key, if she bungles the start like last week she will be pushing it uphill. But if she gets away cleanly she will be mighty hard to beat.
Having said that, Sheemon also wasnt at his best last week i didnt think. Hopefully he can lift his game and be more competitive.
Glenferrie Typhoon can win but i think he needs to be driven sit-sprint because thats his biggest weapon, if he has to tough it out against these he will find it tough, he should be top 3-5 no problem, but needs the right positioning and that often comes with luck and a good drive.
Vincennes and Brunelleschi next best and can be there, Vincennes needs a big long clear run out wide to get his long legs up to top momentum.

2 great races!

[Messenger]

a great preview thanks Ash

[Maorisidol]

Great Melton Trotters Cup tonite, shame Keystone Del scratched.
Stent should be too good but likely leader Maori Time will be hard to get past and hopefully after some time off recently, My High Expectations can be back to his best.

Australiasian Trotters Champs will be a great race.
Script says Flying Isa to lead, i doubt Realmein would want that pressure.
Spidergirl is the key, if she bungles the start like last week she will be pushing it uphill. But if she gets away cleanly she will be mighty hard to beat.
Having said that, Sheemon also wasnt at his best last week i didnt think. Hopefully he can lift his game and be more competitive.
Glenferrie Typhoon can win but i think he needs to be driven sit-sprint because thats his biggest weapon, if he has to tough it out against these he will find it tough, he should be top 3-5 no problem, but needs the right positioning and that often comes with luck and a good drive.
Vincennes and Brunelleschi next best and can be there, Vincennes needs a big long clear run out wide to get his long legs up to top momentum.

2 great races!

Stent too good alright, arrogant win. Last 400 27.2 with 1 literal tap on his backside, and only 1, then whip over shoulder to cruise to the line. Based on that he could have gone sub 27 imo...My High Expectations tough run in death but held on better than his last few runs, Maori Time good with sit behind Stent but was never gonna beat him.
Newest kid back on the block having a renaissance of some sort, with his headcheck lowered in new stable is Kyvalley Blur.

Best thing going for Aust Trot Champs winner Flying Isa who repeated last weeks run is the driver Luke McCarthy, just too clever. did the same in a big 3000m race at Menangle also running a moderate tempo then zipping home last 800 in 55.9. you cant catch that from back in the pack.
Realmein unlucky, blocked 2-3 times last 200m shouldve been 2nd.

[Maorisidol]

Good to see Sundons Promise win in WA today!

[doncht]

Saw that one too. The odds were just spot on. https://imagicon.info/cat/10-3/smile4.png

[Messenger]

I see they are running 2 separate meetings at Melton tonight Ash
The pacers finish at about 8.35, we all go home and then
you guys start arriving for the trotters that begin at 9.35
;)

[Maorisidol]

I see they are running 2 separate meetings at Melton tonight Ash
The pacers finish at about 8.35, we all go home and then
you guys start arriving for the trotters that begin at 9.35
;)

Careful there young fella, you'll get a clip!
Just jokin...
Great FFA Tonite Maori Time won't b handing up over short trip, Spidergirl will b trying to keep in front of Stent so pace will b on, if there's a boilover could very well b Kyvalley Blur at $12.63 Fixed for a place, pop a fiver on that just for fun!
Desert Spur top EW chance but Fav Enjoy An Ale is hot right now, he does go back to 30m so pressure is on.
Apollos Gift the comeback kid looks well placed but in same race Mont Morley hasn't seen a mobile barrier draw this good since Jesus was a boy! Many chances in this race for top value in exotics go with 1,2,3,4 but just with spare change not your big stuff.

[brent_L]

Careful there young fella, you'll get a clip!
Just jokin...
Great FFA Tonite Maori Time won't b handing up over short trip, Spidergirl will b trying to keep in front of Stent so pace will b on, if there's a boilover could very well b Kyvalley Blur at $12.63 Fixed for a place, pop a fiver on that just for fun!
Desert Spur top EW chance but Fav Enjoy An Ale is hot right now, he does go back to 30m so pressure is on.
Apollos Gift the comeback kid looks well placed but in same race Mont Morley hasn't seen a mobile barrier draw this good since Jesus was a boy! Many chances in this race for top value in exotics go with 1,2,3,4 but just with spare change not your big stuff.
I see the G1 being run similar Ash. That's why Sheemon really takes my fancy, place more than win.

[Messenger]

Brian Kiesey with his multiple runners in a race can sure decimate a race with the way he regularly scratches them all

[Maorisidol]

I see the G1 being run similar Ash. That's why Sheemon really takes my fancy, place more than win.

$2.70 for the place Brent $2.10 fixed...did as well as he could, Stent just better, Spidergirl was pulling like a train climbing over their backs itching to get out and subsequently broke, so looks like she will have something to give as we all expect. Hopefully next start she has better luck and is able to give Stent a red hot go.
Realmein brave in death, MHE held up was doing good last 200 as was Kyvalley Blur from way back. Elegant Image out back then knocked over by Spider and Real Babe lost ground in the straight.
Our Twentyten hung on by a bare margin to just beat Monorail who is in top form. Steal A Sixpence solid but first 2 too good and Vote Pedro lost ground on final turn but gained heaps in straight.
Desert Spur did the right thing for me at $9 Fixed to just pip Guiltless in the next and Enjoy An Ale found his 30m a bit much especially when Guitless' driver N Jack did the clever thing and led, and ran like a rabbit making it hard for backmarkers. Walter Creed a second improved run in a row at odds, watch for him in a slightly weaker race but dont tell anyone!!
Left Right and Centre had a well deserved win in the last, Sun of Anarchy had a great 2nd his 13th place out of 16 Aust starts while Apollos Gift nearly gallopped at the start so lost ground and was still a very good 3rd, second up after about 26 months! Savannah Jayjay flew home from near last after being held up.

[Messenger]

I took an interest in the trot at Stawell today and as usual looked up the breeding of the winner after.
Congratulations to Ararat trainer Michael McGrath on what I think is his first winner for the season but more so congratulations to the whole McGrath clan of the last 50+ years.
T & Mrs N bought Queen Ling 1961 and bred Napoleon Miss 1974. Then WT & EK bred Can't Find It 1980 from her and then MT & KF being from up this way of course sent her to Maori's Idol to produce good mare Rani Rose 1997 the dam of their winner today Our Rose Bud 2008

These are the families - horse and human, that we need to keep harness racing strong

[Adaptor]

Kevin
Is that the same McGrath family that raced Banooka Bill? Great looking chestnut who did well at the old Horsham track and may have won one at the Showgrounds.
The pedigree has a a personal connection. Queen Ling's dam Gaelic Miss was by Dauntless Peter. First horse to go through the classes at the Showgrounds in one season, winning 8 in a row. He was bred ( Peerless Peter from Louise Wood by Louis Direct) at Shepparton East and raced by my wife's great uncle Joe Hillier.

[Messenger]

I'm afraid I do not know the McGrath's Noel - just noticed the surname running all through the pedigree of today's winner. If we are lucky we might here from them or someone who knows them.
I noticed Peerless Peter in the ped - that is some connection AND memory you have

[Messenger]

I was told the French bet over $1M on the last 4 trotting races at Melton on Saturday night - can anybody confirm those figures

[Adaptor]

Probably correct Kevin as the figure for French betting for the last 4 trotting races on the Bendigo Cup night (at the Hippodrome de Bendigo) was $1.3 million...... Mon dieu!

[Maorisidol]

Race 10 at Maryborough Thu 19th...
CO SS 12 starters
5 are Trotters!
never seen that many before...its happening Kevin, we're taking over, be very afraid!!! lol...
Rob Auber picks them to be first 5 past the post, damn good chance.

[Messenger]

Race 10 at Maryborough Thu 19th...
CO SS 12 starters
5 are Trotters!
never seen that many before...its happening Kevin, we're taking over, be very afraid!!! lol...
Rob Auber picks them to be first 5 past the post, damn good chance.

That is Maryborough of course - we wouldn't allow that to happen at Stawell ;)

[Richard prior]

No offence Ash but big chance in this one for a bit of Dodgem Car action.

[brent_L]

the trotting so far at Maryborough today has looked nothing like a professional sport unfortunately.

[Adaptor]

Ouch !
Star Gun disqualified after the all-clear had been given."Chairman of the meeting erred significantly".

RACE 3 Ballarat –BOB FREEMAN MEMORIAL MONTE (1710 SS)
Star Gun underwent a pre-race veterinary examination after having started the previous evening. This gelding was subsequently cleared to start.
Star Gun was slow out and will remain outside the standing start draw.
Hakuna Sunset galloped with approximately 800m to travel.
Bill Pepperell tired to be beaten 64m at the finish of the race and a warning was issued.
Telern Tiger tired badly to be beaten in excess of 190m. A post-race veterinary examination of this mare failed to reveal any apparent abnormalities and as a result of the poor performance Telern Tiger has been stood down from racing until the completion of a satisfactory trial.
Subsequent to the all-clear being given it was established that Star Gun had galloped just prior to the winning post and acting in accordance with the provisions of AR331 Star Gun was subsequently disqualified from the event however due to the all-clear already being given the original judge’s numbers stood for betting purposes in accordance with the provisions of AR15(1)(ab). In determining this matter stewards took into account the mandatory requirements of the particular rules and that the Chairman of the race meeting had erred significantly by failing to review the replays appropriately.

[aussiebreno]

1.58.1 has there been a faster monte?