Maiden success worth the pain

IT WAS a little painful, but it didn’t stop Kaela Hryhorec from giving a joyful ‘thumbs up’ at Globe Derby yesterday.

Hryhorec has been sidelined since a race fall in Mount Gambier in June, which resulted in her severely damaging her thumb.

After registering her initial success as a trainer, however, Hryhorec fought through the pain as she acknowledged driver Dani Hill.

“It’s still pretty sore, mainly uncomfortable, but I had to give Dani a thumbs up as she came back to scale,” Hryhorec said.

“To get my first winner as a trainer is awesome and something I will never forget.

“I can’t thank Dani enough for such a wonderful drive.”

Having his seventh start for Hryhorec, Overpowering broke a long drought from the winners’ circle when he rated 1:59.4 over 1800 metres.

Weeroona Boy and I Wanna Rocknroll filled the placings.

The gelding’s previous success was in Young on January 21, 2020.

“I’m so happy with him,” Hryhorec said. “He’s also run a few placings since I’ve had him, so he’s going along nicely.

“That said, he is a real handful of a horse to deal with and I’ve had to change his gear around a bit.

“Dani was more confident in his chances than me, but I’m just so excited to come away with the win.”

• PAUL COURTS