‘Big thrill’ for Ashleigh with another exciting opportunity

An unforgettable moment at Menangle has led to another exciting opportunity for young New South Wales-based reinswoman Ashleigh Delosa.

Fresh from partnering the Emma Stewart-trained Major Delight (Bettor’s Delight) to her 100^th career harness racing victory in the listed Stylish Memphis Stakes last weekend, the 26-year-old has been asked to drive the multiple Group 1 winner in this Saturday night’s Garrards Jane Ellen Free For All at Melton Entertainment Park.

Delosa, who is originally from Queensland but now works for top NSW trainer Rickie Alchin, said it was a huge thrill to maintain her association with the reigning Victorian three-year-old pacing filly of the year.

“She was beautiful – she was a big, strong mare and a bit quirky, but I really liked driving her,” Delosa said.

“I didn’t know if it would be just the one-time thing or if she came back (to NSW) I might get a drive again, but I definitely didn’t expect to go to Melton and drive her.”

In what will be her first time competing at Victorian harness racing headquarters, Delosa will also partner Major Delight’s gun stablemates Some American – in the Logical Staffing Solutions 3YO Pace – and Petracca, who tackles the Nevele R Stud Pace.

Both Some American and Petracca are looking to atone for last-start defeats as favourite at Melton.

“It’s definitely a good opportunity and a big thrill to drive for them (Tonkin Stewart Racing),” Delosa said.

“I still can’t really believe that they want to put me on.”

Delosa has driven 100 winners since starting her career in 2021 at a strike rate of 16 per cent.

For complete race entries, click here.

by Tim O’Connor, for HRV