Queensland colt Fate Awaits (Always B Miki) defeated an outstanding harness racing field In the $150,000 Group 1 New South Wales Breeders Challenge Final for two year old colts and geldings at Menangle Park last night.
In winning Fate Awaits smashed the Australasian record by running 1.50 breaking the previous best of 1.50.3
Trainer Grant Dixon also had Path To Glory engaged but opted to drive Fate Awaits while Josh Gallagher took the reins on Path To Glory.
Gallagher took Path To Glory to the early lead with Fate Awaits dropping back from the pole position to sit behind the leader. Sweet On Lexy moved up outside the leader with Hezatreacherous taking the one out one back trail and Sanchez who was racing with an open bridle three back on the rails.
Although Path to Glory was leading on the final bend, Dixon quickly manoeuvred off the rails and once balanced he stormed to the front to hold off Sanchez with Hezatreacherous edging out Double Lou for third placing.
Dixon said: āHe sure has had a great year. The draw was of extra help but he was good tonight. He settled in nice and the tempo was fastā.
Raced by the Solid Earth group which includes Kevin and Kay Seymour, Fate Awaits was a $25,000 purchase at the yearling sales and has already won over $400,000. The colt was bred by Phil and Denise Thurston.
FATE AWAITS REPLAY
Dixon indicated he will give Fate Awaits a good rest and already has plans to tackle next years New South Wales Pacers Derby.
Sanchez was gallant in defeat producing yet another strong effort but falling short in another big two year old classic. He has won only one of his nine appearances but been placed on six occasions and connections would be hoping that he has more luck when he comes back as a three year old.
Hezatreacherous lost no admirers in finishing third and he too should come back better than ever next season.
For complete race results,Ā click here.
byĀ Tony Milanese, for Harnesslink