2019 Group 3 Brian Johnstone Final - Review
In one of the most event fields in recent history Corbett for trainer Petar Jovanovic took out the 2019 Group 3 SA bred classic when he was able to lead throughout and claim the $25,000 first prize.
Corbett began nicely from box 3 and pushed hard to the first turn being challenged for the lead by Kisses For Chloe for trainer Ben Rawlings. Hot Desert Storm for Tony Rasmussen made a line of three with Footrot Fosse for Bosco Stamenkovic making a line of four at the winning post on the first occasion as the racing was tight. Rounding the bend on the first occasion Corbett held the challenges at bay as he rolled away from the inside and pinched a break. Kisses For Chloe was in second with Long Gully Evie railing strongly to challenge on the inside. Hot Desert Storm and Footrot Fosse dropped back while race favourite Miss Bellawood for Jeff Britton was squeezed out early and was always at the tail of the field. As they flew down the back straight Corbett opened up a nice break and was in full flight as they left the back straight. Long Gully Evie moved to a clear second while Kisses For Chloe battled on strongly in third. Into the front straight and Corbett was in no danger going on for a scintillating victory by 2.50 lengths from Long Gully Evie who railed strongly while Kisses For Chloe was a solid effort in third 1.75 lengths back. Corbett ran a sizzling 29.77 for the 515m journey giving nothing else a chance once he found the front.
He is out of Fabregas and Spicy Peppa and was bred locally by Tim Richards. He is owned in Victoria by the Wild Boar Racing syndicate with syndicate members making the long trip across the border to be on hand for the presentation. Syndicate member Jess Hopkins spoke graciously as she accepted the trophy and the appreciation of winning a race named in the honor of Brian Johnstone.
Corbett has now won 8 races from 22 starts and 9 minor placings and prizemoney just over 43,000.
This event was introduced in recognition of former Adelaide Greyhound Racing Club Chairman, Brian Johnstone who passed away 11 years ago. Brian was a true ambassador and great administrator for SA greyhound racing. He was involved with Angle Park from the early 1970’s and served many years on the Adelaide Greyhound Racing Club Committee.