Climb up to the winners’ circle Sonnyboy!

FANS – and those tortured by their fathers playing his music – would have backed at least one winner in Kilmore last night.

Once touted as the ‘the world’s greatest entertainer’, Al Jolson was a phenomenon during the early 1900s

Along with being the biggest act on Broadway, Jolson was the star of the first talking motion picture in 1927.

Among Jolson’s hits is the ballad Sonny Boy – the name of the two-year-old trot winner at the provincial meeting.

Trained and driven by Jack Sullivan, Sonnyboy broke his maiden at his eighth start.

“He’s been thereabouts a few times, including running three placings, so he earned the win,” Sullivan said.

“I thought he was a good chance and I’m thrilled to have him win as it’s been a long time between drinks.

“I think my last winner was Red Rustler also in Kilmore in 2018.

“I do remember it was also a cold winter night and we were in the last race just like last night.”

Beginning quickly to lead from barrier three, Sonnyboy rated 2:05.8 over 2180 metres to account for Mustang Kelly and Hi Ho Kyvalley.

“He’s always been a nervous type, his mother was the same, and last night was the most relaxed he’s been before a race,” Sullivan said.

“When I was breaking him in he took fright, tipped me out and I broke a couple of ribs.”

To be given a short spell, the son of Majestic Son will be aimed at the Vicbred Super Series later in the year.

Traditionally staged during June/July, the Vicbred Super Series has been rescheduled due to the Coronavirus pandemic, with the Finals set to be conducted in Melton on New Year’s Eve.

“He will go for a break now while the grass is nice and green,” Sullivan said. “I’m not saying he is up with the better ones, but we’ll have a look at the Vicbred with him.

“You pay up for these things and only get one shot at them, so we may as well have a go.”

HOOFNOTE: My siblings and I fit into the tortured category as our father would crank up the volume on his Jolson album after having a few too many!