Locals revel in major Cup success

WITH the floodgate re-opened, Victorians once again dominated South Australia’s major Cup card.

Last season Harness Racing SA made the controversial decision to restrict its Pacing and Trotting Cups, along with the Derby, to local stock, keeping raiders away.

Reverting the events to open status in 2023, albeit with the addition of heats, allowed interstate competitors to dominate as per usual.

One perfect result, however, is the Cup winners are owned locally, meaning the bulk of the funds remained with SA.

Breaking a long drought from the winners’ circle with his success in the Trotters’ Cup, Blue Coman is raced by the Cormack family, which have been huge supporters of the industry for years.

Proving too good in his Pacing Cup heat and Final, Wheres The Gold has a massive syndicate of owners, consisting of predominently ‘Crow Eaters’.

“It’s a win for both states,” driver Allan McDonough said. “He’s trained by Emma (Stewart) in Victoria, but owned by a group over here.

“I’m pretty sure he’s being claimed as a local given they loved cheering him on.”

Leading throughout from the pole, Wheres The Gold rated 2:01.8 over 2645 metres as Tango Tara and Platinum Stride filled the placings.

“They were always the two main dangers, and Tango Tara got close at the end, but he was holding him,” McDonough said.

McDonough and Stewart then completed a double when Our Vinnie secured the Derby in 1:57.2 over 2230 metres.

Also triumphant in his heat, Our Vinnie accounted for Hes All Torque and Cheerstolou.