2017 Brian Johnstone Final - Review
Baa Man for Lewiston trainer Karen Wittholz stamped himself as a rising star in the local ranks after a dominate display in the Group 3 Brian Johnstone Final at Angle Park tonight.
Baa Man was sent out a clear favourite after his brilliant display in the semi-finals when he won in easy fashion in 29.94 however he still had to beat a terrific line up of young SA Bred chasers also looking to claim the $25,000 first prize.
As the start was affected the son of Dyna Tron and Just Crazy began well quickly moving to second on the first turn with Long Gully Robbi making full use of the inside box for trainer Paula Hearnden to punch through and lead. Entering the back straight Long Gully Robbi was going quickly in the lead with Dunkirk making ground quickly to second for Matthew Payne and Baa Man balancing up in third and moving to the outside. Off the back straight Dunkirk moved up to Long Gully Robbi to challenge for the lead with Baa Man making a line of three on the apex of the bend however Baa Man put his paw to the floor and quickly put paid to his rivals opening up a break as they entered the front straight. As the field came down to the finish line Baa Man was in full flight and raced away from his rivals going on to win by an ever increasing 5 ¾ lengths. Libby Raider for Paula Hearnden who was marginally held up prior to turning for home flashed into second spot while maiden performer Emerley Storm rattled home into third place a further 3 lengths away. Baa Man ran an impressive 29.99 for the 515m journey and has now won 9 races from 16 starts and 3 minor placings and prizemoney close to $35,000.
Baa Man is owned by the Black Sheep syndicate managed by Gawler GRC Secretary Bob May and was bred locally by Gawler GRC Chairman Mike Wittholz.