$150,000 Golden Slipper won by ex-Kiwi colt

Harness racing’s version of the Golden Slipper for two year olds was staged last night at Gloucester Park and the $150,000 classic was taken out in superb style by brilliant colt Cyclone Jordy (Art Major).

Starting at one of the shortest priced favourites ever, Cyclone Jordy gave his supporters no concern when he easily held out the lead and from then onwards the race was a procession.

CYCLONE JORDY REPLAY

Having only his second start in Western Australia after coming from New Zealand Cyclone Jordy had put the writing on the wall when he had scored a hollow win last week at Gloucester Park. It was obvious from his favourable draw that driver Gary Hall Jnr would look for the lead.

He had won the coveted event two years ago with Never Ending who was trained by Justin Prentice but combined with his father Gary Hall Snr on two previous occasions with Love of Glory and Beaudiene Boaz.

After the event Gary Hall jnr stated “he was good enough to win from any barrier. He laughed as he said this is the problem you have to put up with in these big races”. Part owner John Fairweather hasn’t been part of the team for that long now but he’s had great success.

The owners paid big money for him (Cyclone Jordy). These guys have put a lot into the game.I’m still a firm believer that good horses bring people to the races and this guy is certainly one of those”.

The race was marred when Como El Viente broke shortly after the start and went back through the field. Another former New Zealander Captainshavtime who had been unbeaten in his five previous appearances began quickly from his wide barrier to eventually sit up outside Cyclone Jordy without a trail.

With third and final quarters of 28.1 and 27.8 it was understandable that he gave ground to finish third just behind the Westbred fillies winner Reinette who ran on gamely for second placing.

For complete race results, click here.

by Tony Milanese, for Harnesslink