The more things change, the more they stay the same!

THE more things change, the more they stay the same!

Although first penned in 1849 by Frenchman Jean-Baptiste Alphonse Karr, the popular saying is oh so relevant in relation to South Australia’s Trotters’ Cups circuit.

During the past few seasons Hryhorec has dominated the provincial features like no other.

For example, in 2022 Hryhorec became the first trainer in the nation to complete a clean sweep of a state’s Trotters’ Cups before being a regular on the dais in 2023.

Hryhorec then won four Cups in 2024, and six last season, including the Fred Jones, Kadina, Gawler Hambletonian, Kapunda, Strathalbyn and South Australia Trotters’ Cups.

Fast forward to this afternoon’s Kadina Trotters’ Cups – the first of the season – and Hryhorec was once again holding the trophy aloft.

In fact, Hryhorec prepared the quinella in the $11,000 event.

Driven by Gaita Pullicino, Phoebe Onyx overcame a 30-metre handicap to score from Is That A Bid, which shared the back mark.

Madame Kelly was a metre away third for underrated horseman Robbie Caton.

Phoebe Onyx rated 2:02.1 over 2050 metres to take his record to 20 wins and 40 placings from 140 starts.

“I was pleased with his first couple of starts this time in and knew he was hitting his peak,” Hryhorec said. “He ran accordingly, as did Is That A Bid.”

Contemplating contesting Sunday’s Kapunda Cup with the son of Wishing Stone, Hryhorec stated he has his eyes focused firmly on the $20,000 Strathalbyn Cup on March 21.

“I’m considering Kapunda, but haven’t made up my mind 100 per cent,” Hryhorec said. “I’ll definitely be aiming at Strathalbyn’s Cup in a couple of weeks.”