Speedy mare races into record books

SPEEDY performer Maori Time forged her way into the record books with her upset victory at Tabcorp Park Menangle just moments ago.

Leading throughout the Trotters’ Mile, Maori Time stopped the clock in a brilliant 1:51.5 with birthday boy Todd McCarthy in the cart.

Daryl Boko and War Dan Destroyer filled the placings.

As such, the Brent Lilley-trained daughter of Pegasus Spur became the fastest Australasian-bred trotter.

Maori Time slashed 1.7 from Flying Isa’s southern hemisphere record, while also slicing half a second from Mighty Dragon’s international mark.

Flying Isa, driven by McCarthy’s brother, Luke, established the record at Menangle in March 2014.

Mighty Dragon set his time at The Meadowlands on June 6, 2003.

“I said during the week if she got to the front she would run a quick time,” Lilley said. “Her work had been as good as anything we’ve had, including pacers, and I knew she was ready for a quick time.

“I want wanted to that quick time next to her name and am so thrilled for her.”

To be given an easy week, Maori Time will have restricted time to add to her tally of 24 wins and 19 placings from 65 starts as connections plans to retire the eight-year-old at the end of the season.

Maori Time’s wins include four Group Ones and three Group Twos.

“I will give her a quiet few days now as we head home,” Lilley said. “At this stage I haven’t picked anything out as I hadn’t looked past tonight.

“To have another Group One next to her name will be great for her as a broodmare as shewill go to stud at the end of the season.”