Cup result was just as predicted

ALTHOUGH it wasn’t as easy as hoped, it all went to script at Globe Derby for prominent couple Merv and Meg Butterworth.

Dominating the open class ranks in recent weeks, the couple had two runners in Saturday night’s Italian Cup – the first of a series of races restricted to South Australian-trained competitors.

Last December Harness Racing SA announced its plans for the SA Cup with the view of returning the feature to its former glory, while also attempting to keep the bulk of the prizemoney in the pockets of locals.

The Cup is now regarded as a Final for those which earn the highest points while contesting various country cups.

There are seven qualifying events in which to earn points.

As for the Italian Cup, Merv predicted their comeback pacer Im Full Of Excuses would lead from the pole giving their in-form gelding, Jimmy Mack, the ideal trail on his back before proving too good along the sprint lane.

Merv’s ‘crystal ball’ was correct, with Jimmy Mack finishing along the inside to score by a half-head from Wrangler.

First-up since last July, Im Full Of Excuses a metre away third.

Rating 1:58.1 over 2240 metres, Jimmy Mack stretched his winning sequence to nine.

“The race panned out as I expected with Im Full Of Excuses leading and Jimmy Mack following him through from the inside of the second line,” Merv said.

“It was tighter than I would have liked on the line, but I think Jimmy Mack cost himself a little by over racing.

“The next round is in Strathalbyn on Sunday, but I don’t think we will race there as the track isn’t suitable.”

Jimmy Mack’s success was part of a two-state Cup double for the Victorian-based Butterworths.

Closer to home they were triumphant in the Terang Trotters’ Cup after Cuchulainn caused an upset for trainer Chris Svanosio.

With Svanosio in the cart, the son of Skyvalley rated 2:03 over 2680 metres as Havehorsewilltravel and The Penny Drops filled the placings.