Ryan Levitzke
The Esperance Thoroughbred season came to a close after Saturday’s Cup Meeting. On a beautiful day, a big crowd was in attendance to witness a local victory in the Cup when Danish Currency scored over another local in Key's Ace who attempted to lead all the way.
The first of seven races was sponsored by Horizon Power and a small field of five competed over 1100m. Race favourite Diamond Royale proved far too good for Mt. Barker mentor Justin Parsons, winning by over 2 lengths in a slick 1.04.64. Outside Influence capped off a consistent season with a fast finishing second and Gosh ran third.
The Stearnes Glass Sprint was a cake-walk for odds on favourite Henry De Horse. He was ridden like the best horse in the race and won in effortless fashion in a new track record of 1.03.16. Summer Crossing finished second despite a wide run and Expedition did well to salvage a third after missing the kick.
The Tru-Blu Hire sponsored third race provided four kilo claiming apprentice Rayce Nielsen with his first TAB winner. The South African had previously ridden a winner at the Non-TAB venues of Mt. Magnet and Meekatharra. He steered the Don Whitfield trained Pure Sparkla to a gutsy win over favourites Flanno and Tanganyika. Unbelievably, the first time Nielsen had sat on a horse was December 2008. He has a great attitude and is sure to continue to improve with more race riding experience.
The Esperance Combined Tyres Handicap was taken out by Arcade Attraction. Ned Colbeck claimed four kilograms and it told at the finish when Arcade Attraction pulled away from Landmark Lady and San Supremo. The victory carried Arcade Attraction to 16 points in the Horse of the Year Award. The easiest win of the day was in the Farm and General Handicap when Stormy Express thrashed a quality field by four lengths. Willie Arnold ‘let his horse rip’ at the 300m mark and he charged away to beat stablemate Ears Loppy. Silver Ambush battled on well for Debbie Warnes to finish third.
Race Six was supported by the Kalgoorlie Punters and Drinkers Club and winning connections were presented with a bottle of champagne with a sizeable gold nugget floating in it. Wing Star surged to a brilliant victory and notched a hat-trick for Sally Roworth. Western Crown ran second for the third time this season and Sarabella was close up in third. Outta The Blue was an eye-catching fourth and is a horse to follow.
The Express Yourself Printing Esperance Cup provided a grandstand finish. After another stellar season Brendan Corver trained Danish Currency to a terrific, gutsy Cup triumph. Colourful jockey Russel Hanson reigned supreme, winning by half a length and just after the post he gave an almighty salute. Key’s Ace led for a long way and after losing the lead regained it at the 250m mark, only to be overhauled with 50m to run. The Bunbury visitor Troubled Smile hit the lead at the 400m mark but folded over the late stages to finish third. Just Sue failed to run out a strong 2000m and failed to beat a runner home.
Congratulations to Season Award Winners ;
McCreeds Classique Jeweller Rider Of The Year : Willie Arnold
Fred Bow Trainer Of The Year : Brendan Corver
Swanns Veterinary Hospital Horse Of The Year : Arcade Attraction & Just Sue
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