March Legend Storms Back Into The Winners List
Wednesday
Penny Sargent helped herself to a winner on a pleasant Wednesday afternoon at Gawler, with Any Road returning to the winner's list for the first time since July last year! The brindle dog had run a couple of good races in recent starts and on Wednesday his box manners were at their very best, which certainly proved a big difference in the race. After finding the early with a quick 8.76 split, he was never in any trouble and simply waltzed away for a widening four-length win in 22.98. A nice reward for patience for Penny and the team!
Jan Jones unveiled a first starter for her kennel with the homebred White Lilac (Fernando Bale x Star Anise) stepping out for her debut. She was very heavily backed from box one, which suggested that she had some ability, which she went on to show. After leaving the boxes well, she had to keep mustering hard to hold the rail, but she did and was looking good in front. She was challenged strongly, but just proved a bit too good, winning by 2 lengths in 23.35. Her dam was a top chaser, and it would be no surprise at all to see White Lilac go on with things from here.
Sunday
Steven Brook had an enjoyable night at Gawler on Sunday, landing a training double. Memphis Rock was first up, and he was able to land his first victory since coming to South Australia. After a luckless but good run the week prior, he made amends this time around with a fast start setting up his victory. Leading with an 8.68 first split, he had set up a nice lead into the back straight and was doing things nicely. He got a bit weary late but had done enough and won in 22.85. The talented March Legend had his second start after a lengthy layoff and was fantastic en route to his win over the 531m trip. From box one, he had to work hard early to hold his spot on the rail and as they went into the back straight, he had his eyes set on the leader who was a few lengths in front. It took a while, but in the home straight March Legend proved too powerful, as he took over and won well in 31.19.
June Sharpe picked up a winner with Aston Alora (Aston Kimetto x Aston Eclipse) breaking her maiden status. After not showing a heap thus far in her career, her box manners showed great improvement on Sunday, as she flew out and led comfortably with an 8.74 first split. It was a tight tussle, but midrace she broke free and was all but home. Towards the end, she got a bit tired but had done more than enough and won in 23.19. A result that certainly would have pleased June!