Drama in Queen of Hearts

It was a drama packed Woodlands Stud Queen of Hearts at Alexandra last night with harness racing mare Francent (Vincent) declared the winner after she was clearly headed close to the line by Captains Mistress.

But what unfolded was a shocking watch, as the seat on Captains Mistress’s sulky detached and tossed driver Nathan Williamson onto the track.

FRANCENT REPLAY

Chief Stipendiary Steward Nigel McIntyre watched the drama unfold and a short time later was interviewed by Nicole Sims from Trackside.

“We can tell everyone at home that Nathan is in a conscious state. Unfortunately he was struck by a sulky travelling behind him, then a horse. However he is up and talking at this stage and will be transported to hospital,” McIntyre said.

The stipes report stated that the support strut broke, causing the set to detach.

It was an unfortunate and dangerous end to what had developed into a stern battle between two great fillies in the home run.

Post finish line in a marvellous piece of horsemanship, Francent’s driver Sam Ottley was able to grab hold of Captains Mistress and keep her close at hand until the Clerk of the Course arrived.

It’s not the first time something like this has happened at Alexandra Park. In May 2022 the sulky of Take The Miki became detached tossing driver Steven Reid from the cart.

Last night’s win capped off a wonderful run of form for the Mark Jones trained Francent.

She’s won her last four starts, all in group company and this win is her first Group One success.

Owned by members of the Higgins family, the West Coast mare has now won ten races and over $200,000.

Some thought will now be given to Francent racing in this Friday’s $100,000 Ascot Park Hotel Invercargill Cup.

Upon going to press, there is no update on Nathan Williamson.

For complete race results, click here.

by Bruce Stewart, for Harnesslink