Double for Bellman at Charlton Trots
On a weekend where the harness racing industry remembered the anniversary of the passing of two of its legends in Gavan Lang and Greg Sugars, the Charlton club ran a compact six-race program.
With meetings being held at neighbouring clubs it makes it hard for the local club to attract horses. One of the biggest discussion points is the price of fuel and the non-increase of prizemoney. For instance, upon winning a $4,000 race the owners get approximately $1,800. As many said, we are going backwards.
Bellman
The name Bellman has been around in harness racing for many years. D’Arne and husband Neville were and are still now supporters of all clubs in the local area. Both were trainers and drivers in their younger days, but over the years their son, Michael, has been the shining light. But at Maryborough last week D’Arne was back, with Zoolu winning; a 3-year-old trotter who is destined for a big race coming up at Menangle.
D’Arne’s last winner was Buffalo Magic on December 9, 2010. Ill health has kept her away from the track, but she has been a regular attendee at a lot of meetings.
On Sunday, Michael had a very good day with a training and driving double. His first win of the day was in the first race with a 7-year-old mare called Missmalachite, who was having her forty-first race start and recorded her first ever win, after being able to lead all the way.
He completed his double in the final race with Blackrange Glory. This trotter has always shown a lot of ability, but his manners do let him down on occasions. His race record is very good with ten wins and seven placings. Michael said that he wants him placed outside the draw, which in most cases is a disadvantage but not with this horse’s racing manner.
Other Results
Race two: A very good drive from Ewa Justice on Over The Line. Had a good trail in the race to win comfortably.
Race three: Although he does not do a lot of race driving these days, Daryl Douglas was able to lead with Starzinhereyes. There was a lot of mid-race pressure, but controlled the situation to record a two and a half metre win in a quick mile rate of 1-55.0.
Race four: Ryan Sanderson again showed his driving skills on Maxbeca. Was caught wide early in the race, but worked forward to find the lead and simply controlled the race from then on.
Race five: An injury enforced break and a change of stables have helped Bet On Aces record its first win. Now trained by Rebecca Bartley at Kialla, it has had three runs following a break of twenty months. Driven by Liam Older it won by two and a half metres. Liam has only returned to Victoria recently after driving in Tasmania.
Tori Hutchins
Congratulations to Charlton trainer, Tori Hutchins on bringing up her 50th career training win at Mildura last Friday. Her partner, Luke Dunne, drove Don Crunch to achieve this milestone. She made it a double with Ears The Boss driven by Connor Clarke. All Charlton Harness Racing identities, well done.
Coming Up
Donald races this Saturday: the club has received 366 nominations.
Charlton Trots: Friday, May 8.
