Chris Svanosio back on winners’ list

For Terang harness racing trainer Matthew Craven the win of his mare Aldebaran Deebee in the Empire Stallions Vicbred Super Series four-year-old mares’ heat at Maryborough on Thursday was a celebration for two reasons.

One, she won. Two, good mate and stable employee Chris Svanosio returned to the winners’ list after a recent health battle.

“It was terrific to see Chris win aboard the horse owned by Peter, his father,” Craven said.

“Chris is a huge asset to my stable. He’s first there in the morning and last to leave. He’s a terrific worker.”

Aldebaran Deebee (Skyvalley/Dirty Harriet) rated 2:02.2 to defeat Kimmywho by 3.9m, with Hush Your Majesty third.

The Ararat Trotting Cup winner from earlier this year drew gate five for next Friday night’s Final, while talented Endsino from the Andy Gath yard grabbed the pole draw.

“We’ve had a few little setbacks,” Craven said of Aldebaran Deebee’s recent patchy form.

“But I think we’re on top of that now and she’ll benefit a lot from the run (at Maryborough).

“The trouble with her is … any little setback really hits her hard and prevents us from working her how she needs to be worked.”

The four-year-old mares’ trot Vicbred final shapes as one of the races of the night next Friday, with another heat winner Val Gardena (Kadabra/Lets Be Happy) drawing barrier three, and Sky Petite, who defeated Endsino in their heat, drawn eight – inside the second row.

Empire Stallions Vicbred Super Series 4YO Trotting Mares Final Draw

1: Endsino
2: Kimmywho
3: Val Gardena
4: Zaire Diva
5: Aldebaran Deebee
6: Vari Perfect (EM)
7: Ruby Pinevale
8: Sky Petite
9: Sashas Dream
10: Desert Flyer
11: Knocked Off Early
12: Hush Your Majesty (ODM)
13: Donski (ODM)

Cody Winnell