Copy That alright!

New Zealand pacer Copy That had the perfect lead in victory to next week’s inaugural $250,000 The Rising Sun when winning at harness racing’s Albion Park tonight.

Copy That claimed the Wondais Mate Open Pace and reinsman Anthony Butt said the pacer delivered “an unbelievable performance” in his Australian debut.

Still near the tail of the field on the pegs around the home turn, and after a moderate middle half, Butt was able to angle Copy That into the clear to claim the $25,000 listed event.

Copy That lowered his personal best winning mile rate to 1:52.7 in the process. Watch the race replay here.

“We thought long and hard before the race and it was always the plan to stick on the back of the one horse (Uncle Jord),” said Butt.

“We were lucky to get a clear run and the horse was travelling so well I had to pull him sideways.

“It was a really good effort for him to win from that position.

“I’m glad I drove him in a trial last week as the horse has a few little tricks and I even spoke to a few of the guys that have driven him back in NZ to get some pointers on him.”

Causing a minor upset at starting odds of $7, Copy That defeated New South Wales pacers Balraj and Rockin Marty, while the favourite Spankem finished fourth after leading.

Copy That, a four-year-old son of American Ideal, is currently the third favourite at $4 with TAB Fixed Odds for next Saturday night’s The Rising Sun behind the likes of Expensive Ego and Krug.

Expensive Ego also won at Albion Park tonight, producing a tough effort after racing outside the leader.

The victory gave trainer Belinda McCarthy six winners on the 11-race card.

To see all of the results from Albion Park tonight click here.

By Amanda Rando for Harnesslink