Faith In Manchester claims second Breeders Stakes

Faith In Manchester reaffirmed her class at Cambridge Raceway on Friday night, producing a dominant harness racing performance to secure the Group 3 Waikato Trotting Breeders Stakes for the second time.

The six-year-old has long been a reliable performer for trainers Michelle Wallis and Bernie Hackett, and once again she delivered when it mattered most.

Her first win in this race back in January 2024 was a milestone moment for the mare, delivering her maiden Group victory and also providing Crystal Hackett with her first success at that level. This time around it was Todd Mitchell who took the reins.

Starting off a 20m handicap in the 2700m feature, the daughter of Creatine stepped cleanly and settled comfortably in the running line as a strong tempo unfolded up front.

When Loteria moved three wide at the 800m, she tracked into the race behind her and was still travelling well within herself turning for home. Once Mitchell eased her into the clear, the mare stretched out powerfully and quickly put a space on her rivals, drawing away to win by a commanding 5¼ lengths.

FAITH IN MANCHESTER REPLAY

Co-trainer Bernie Hackett was pleased but not entirely surprised by what the mare produced.

“She’d been working really good, you’re never overconfident but I knew she’d give a good account of herself,” he said.

“They went that hard out front I knew they’d have to come back, she just sat there quietly waiting. Once they did come back to her, Todd let her rip, and I knew we were away.”

For Hackett, adding another edition of the Breeders Stakes to the résumé feels particularly special.

“Winning any Group race feels good, getting the same one twice is great.”

The stable already has a clear plan for her next steps, with more opportunities on the horizon as the summer features approach.

“Moving forward she’ll head to the Golden Gait series in December and then she’ll look towards some of those bigger fillies and mares’ trots.”

For complete race results, click here

by Jordyn Bublitz for Harness Racing New Zealand