Don’t forget to mention the Mrs!

BEFORE we get into the ‘nitty-gritty’ about yesterday’s Stawell Pacing Cup, we have to mention Alida!

Alida is the partner, foundation and taskmaster of trainer Gerrard Jamieson, who captured the feature with Sir Nippa.

It was made clear in no uncertain terms “can you please mention Alida…she’s demanding it in the background” as Jamieson was being interviewed for this article!

Now that the formalities are out of the way, Sir Nippa continued his sensation form since joining Jamieson’s stable.

The son of Lincoln Royal has had 15 starts in Jamieson’s care (and Alida’s supervision) for seven wins and six placings.

“He has certainly exceeded expectations,” Jamieson said. “The thought process was to win a couple with him and then turn him over, but I think he is here for a while

“He was always a nice type, came here in top shape and was doing everything right, but something here has just made him click, which some horses just do.

“He’s a lovely horse to have around the place, the kids love him and he’s giving us a great ride.”

Driven by Jordan Leedham, Sir Nippa led throughout from the pole to score by three metres from Steel Ruler, with Tooram Cee Cee two-and-a-half metres away third.

“I was confident before the race as I felt he had a good barrier and I knew the distance would suit him,” Jamieson said. “I was also thinking around the smaller track he won’t get hammered as much, so it was all in his favour yesterday.

“Jordy rated him a treat and got the best out of him.”

As also directed, it would be remiss not to mention Jamieson’s daughter Isabelle accepted the trophy on behalf of connections.

“I was busy ungearing him, so Isabelle, who is 12, made the acceptance speech, answered a few questions and did a good job,” Jamieson said. “I guess between her and Alida, you don’t need to mention me in the story!”

Earlier on the card, Link In Bio secured her second provincial feature by outclassing her rivals in the Trotters’ Cup.

Also working to the early lead, the daughter of Skyvalley staved off a determined Johns Boy to score by a neck, with More Wanted three metres away third in 2:05.4 for the 2600-metre stand.

Trained by Alison Alford and driven by her husband, Chris, Link In Bio won the St Arnaud Trotters’ Cup on November 9.