Black chalks up his one hundredth winner

Branxholme harness racing trainer Alister Black chalked up his one hundredth winner at Wyndham today (Sep. 8) with Wai Key Wee (The Pres) winning his third race in a row.

“It’s hard to believe really. It’s crept up quick,” he said.

After the win Black was quick to acknowledge key stable clients Ian and Lindsay Thompson who have provided him with seventy six of those winners, either in partnership, individually or within an ownership group that includes the brothers.

“They’ve been massive for me. They’ve supplied the quality stock that I’ve got, and I wouldn’t be in this position of training a hundred winners without them. I’d also like to thank my wife (Sheree) for having to put up with me (laughter).”

Starting off thirty metres Wai Key Wee driven by Matty Williamson settled back early as the race lead changed four times. Williamson then got a nice sit in the one one behind Expensive Crumpet which took him to the top of the straight. Wai Key Wee then let down nicely in the middle of the track beating Peregrine by a length and a quarter.

WAI KEY WEE REPLAY

Of the one hundred wins, Black rates Vintage Cheddar’s win in the Junior Free For All at Addington as the best.

Other good winners have been Get Lucky (7), Ossessione, Six Diamonds (6 each) Kilowatt Kid and Lawrence (5 apiece).

Black has had a training licence since 2005. His first winner was Rome at Forbury Park in May 2010.

Oamaru reinsman Brad Williamson has been the most successful driver for Black, He’s driven fifty three of the winners.

Wai Key Wee is owned by Art Shirley and Paul McEntyre.

For complete race results, click here.

by Bruce Stewart