Big upset in NSW Oaks

Bettor’s Delight filly Just Hope has caused a huge upset tonight with a victory in harness racing’s $200,000 Group One John Gibson Memorial NSW Oaks at Menangle.

Driven confidently at the start by driver Nathan Jack, Just Hope slotted into an early trail behind second favourite Madrid who attempted to lead all the way after a lead time of 57.7.

Angled into the clear up the straight by Jack, Just Hope relished the wet track conditions and wore down Madrid, eventually beating that filly by 3.1m at the line. Amore Vita the race favourite was wide for most of the race and battled bravely into third.

The winner paced the 2400m in a 1:54.9 mile rate closing with a 55.4 second final 800m.

Russell Jack trained the winner whose starting odds were $71.

“I was really disappointed at Melton when she was beaten but I underestimated the winner (Amore Vita) and last week she was just plain and didn’t eat all that well but picked up for tonight,” said Jack.

“I’ve got to thank Luke (McCarthy), he has been driving her in trackwork and gave me the confidence to go forward with her.

“As soon as I came out on the track with her I knew she was right tonight because she was bouncing.

“It’s a big thrill.”

To view the results from Menangle on Saturday click here.

Harnesslink Media