Himanameisjeff upsets Don Hugo in JE Binskin Free For All

Menangle specialist Himanameisjeff (Art Major) scored one of his best wins when he upset odds on harness racing favourite Don Hugo in the Listed JE Binskin Free For All at Menangle on Saturday evening.

Showing his customary early speed from the outside of the front row, Himanameisjeff easily crossed the lead with Don Hugo having trouble getting past the pole marker Regazzo Di Tilly. However once he balanced up Luke McCarthy sent Don Hugo to the front while Jye Coney wisely took the trail with Himanameisjeff.

The field raced in Indian file and with Don Hugo travelling comfortably in the lead it really looked his race for the taking. But Himanameifjeff continued to stick right behind and Coney let him come off the fence to issue a challenge.

The two had a great battle down the home straight and running a scorching 25.9 seconds for the final quarter but Himanameisjeff got the upper hand and he had a neck to spare over Don Hugo with Kingmaker in third.

HIMANAMEISJEFF 7 FEB REPLAY

The gelding has now won 14 races at Menangle and he obviously relishes the spacious track.

Jye Coney commented.

It’s such a great feeling to win such a time honoured race like the J E Binskin Memorial. To drive such a powerful horse like Himanameisjeff and beat a horse like Don Hugo is definitely a career highlight. I’m just thankful for the opportunities I’m getting. At the top of the straight I still had a lot of horse left. He felt amazing I pulled him out and he went straight to the line so well.  I’m always available for the drive.

In running 1.49.3 for the mile Don Hugo was far from disgraced and the former Miracle Mile winner must still be in contention despite his loss.

Luke McCarthy commented after the event.

He’s pulled up real good. Its unbelievable the sections that these top horses run these days. I don’t think he’s ever worked a quarter faster than that (25.9 seconds). He hadn’t had a run for four to five weeks. He went super but credit to the winner. He was amazing too.

But now Himanameisjeff has raced into contention and trainer Jason Grimson will have a strong hand in the Miracle Mile with Swayzee and more recently the flying mare Captains Mistress all capable of winning the coveted classic.

For driver Jye Coney it proved to be a night that he won’t forget. Earlier in the evening he was successful with Still Rollin (Rock N Roll Heaven) also trained by Grimson. Then he steered Lexys on Song (Rock N Roll Heaven) to all the way in the Waratah Final and then his fourth winner came by Sky Blu (Sweet Lou) who took out the Ladyship Pace.

For complete race results, click here.

by Tony Milanese, for Harnesslink