Racing incident leads to no race declared at Albion Park

The eagerly awaited harness racing clash between star mares Chynchilla and Rylee Rhayne Bow in the Mares Open Pace at Albion Park on Saturday night turned out to be a non event when the race was abandoned.

Chynchilla and Rylee Rhayne Bow had both been in rare form and the former was backed into favouritism due to an inside barrier draw.

Nathan Dawson found the lead on Chynchilla while Pete McMullen couldn’t cross over as Diamond Shooz booted up on the inside to keep him outside the leader.

However along the back straight Rylee Rhayne Bow was able to have a breather to drop in and look to outsprint Chynchilla.

But Jungle Baby was on the track out wide in the home straight after an unfortunate race incident and all drivers suddenly took hold of their horses. There was no prospect of moving Jungle Baby before the runners came to the home turn. It looked that before the incident that Chynchilla was going to hold off Rylee Rhayne Bow but patrons will have to wait for another day to see these two mares again in action.

Stewards then declared the event to be abandoned.

The one highlight for the night was the final race appearance of grand performer Northview Hustler (Bettors Delight) who bowed out after competing in the Divided Open Pace.

The veteran raced on 212 occasions for 36 wins (including 22 at Albion Park) and 49 placings after starting his career in New Zealand. After arriving in Australia he only ever raced at Albion Park and Redcliffe. He ended up winning $539,713 in prize money.

In addition the gelding posted a best mile rate of 1.50.6 at Albion Park over the 1660 metre trip Trainer and part owner Al Barnes has decided to retire the gelding who will now enjoy the rest of life off the track.

For complete race results, click here.

By Tony Milanese for Harnesslink