Constantinople prevails in thrilling trotters FFA

Talented harness racing trotter Constantinople (Trixton) put it all together when he scored a thrilling win in the Listed Bay Johnny Free For All at Menangle Park last night.

The race was the main event of the card and harness racing fans were treated to an exciting spectacle of trotting in a powerhouse finish.

From the pole favourite Royal Dan was able to take the lead after surrendering early but he was inclined to over race at times.

Luke McCarthy on Constantinople settled back fourth in the run but in the back straight he was the first of the runners to break Indian file as he set out after Royal Dan.

As the field entered the home straight Constantinople forged to the lead but he was being pressed by Sunny Gee. In addition Is That A Bid and Affaire De Cover both started to make their runs. In a driving finish the four trotters were locked together but Constantinople showed that extra bit of grit as he held to win by a half a head from Sunny Gee with Affair De Cover half a head away third just in front of Is That A Bid.

It was a welcome return to form for Constantinople who has always shown above average ability but at times has been inconsistent. He performed below expectations in the recent Inter Dominion series so it’s a credit to Luke McCarthy and his team to have him back at his best last night.

CONSTANTINOPLE JAN 25 REPLAY

It remains to be seen whether he would take on the Great Southern Star next week at Melton but he certainly could figure prominently in the Heat. In any case he is sure to perform well in similar free for all company at Menangle.

An interesting runner was Shes Ruby Roo the former Victorian mare who was prepared by Jess Tubbs. A previous winner of the Victoria Trotting Oaks and Need for Speed Princess Stakes, the mare is now in the Blake Fitzpatrick stable. Last night she galloped at the start but she wasn’t that far behind the place getters and will be improved by that effort.

by Tony Milanese, for Harnesslink