The Queen takes her first interstate crown

Love You mare Queen Elida claimed her first major harness racing victory in open class company tonight.

Queen Elida won the $50,000 Group 1 Garrards La Coocaracha at Menangle in stunning fashion, beating her more seasoned rivals in a personal best mile rate of 1:55.8.

Driven by master reinsman Chris Alford, the four-year-old had to settle towards the tail of the field early when starting from barrier nine.

Alford made a mid-race move with 800m to travel.

Facing the breeze, Queen Elida fought gamily to fend off her rivals with more than three metres to spare at the finish line.

Araignee Flair was second and Illawong Stardust rounded out the placegetters.

“I was a bit worried at the start, I tried to slot in early and couldn’t get in,” said Alford.

“She felt really strong and hit the line well.”

That was Queen Elida’s first victory interstate giving her a record of 12 wins in 22 starts.

The four-time Group 1 winner has a big season ahead according to Alford.

“The good thing is she is so perfect to drive and greatly gaited.

“She’ll run in all the good four-year-old races and stick to the mares features as well.”

To view the results from Menangle on Saturday night click here.

By Amanda Rando for Harnesslink