2018 Howard Ashton Final Review
Trainer Barry Stewart had a night to remember at Angle Park last night when his up and coming sprinter Waterloo Kate took out the Group 3 Howard Ashton final. Not only did he train the winner, Barry also trained third place Springvale Choix in a great night for connections.
In front of a large crowd the Group 3 feature for SA Bred greyhounds was one of the most open in recent history with all greyhounds given an each way chance.
As the start was affected Waterloo Kate made full use of her inside draw to push through and lead on the first turn after an average beginning. Breemelia Swift for Tony Hinrichsen also mustered quickly to be challenging for the early lead while Minacious for Northern trainer Graham Brown was slow to begin but also railed hard from his inside drawn to move to third. As the field settled Waterloo Kate who normally runs home in her races found herself in front and proving very hard to catch. She was chased by Breemelia Swift, Minacious and kennel mate to the leader Springvale Choix who was beginning to make good ground.
Rounding the home turn however Waterloo Kate was full of running and went down to the finish line a big winner by 3 ½ lengths in a solid 30.33 with Minacious edging out Springvale Choix in a photo for second.
Waterloo Kate is by Fernando Bale and Hope’s Up and was bred by Cameron Butcher. She was purchased for $9,000 in the 2016 AGRC/GRSA Auction and after winning $25,000 tonight certainly has repaid her happy connections which include trainer Barry Stewart, Gavin Harris, Stuart Barber and Ray Fewings.
Waterloo Kate has now won 2 races from her 9 starts including 4 minor placings and prizemoney around $27,000.
