Emotional scenes as reinswoman snares first Group 1

They say ‘a dog is a man’s best friend’ but for harness racing driver Michelle Phillips it would have to be the Bettors Delight gelding Sebs Choice.

The four-year-old pacer was already Phillips’ favourite horse and Sebs Choice returned the love to give the 24-year-old reinswoman her first Group 1 win after taking out tonight’s $106,070 Redcliffe Gold Cup.

“He was there for me in a hard time of my life and picks me up every time,” an emotional Phillips said as she unclipped Sebs Choice’s headcheck.

“Bully (trainer John Nicholson) and his family have been supportive of me and keep putting me on him and to win our first Group 1 together is just awesome.

“He felt amazing on the top turn when they came at him three-wide . . . his heart is so big right now, I’m speechless.”

Sebs Choice was the favourite to win the standing start feature in its first year elevated to Group 1 status.

After a failed first attempt of letting the 12-horse field go with the front tape needing to be replaced, Sebs Choice stepped away perfectly as the starter released the tapes the second time and found the front.

Dictating the race from there, Sebs Choice led throughout the 2613m test going through the quarters in 31.7, 31.3, 27.1 and 28.7 seconds.

The mile rate was 2:01.9.

SEBS CHOICE REPLAY

Sebs Choice will now be aimed at the $300,000 The Rising Sun at Albion Park on July 9 along with stablemate Alby Two Chains who also won at Redcliffe tonight.

“As babies we looked after them and missed all the big ones (races) and it’s time to shine,” said Nicholson.

“For Sebs Choice to match it with those horses tonight he’ll handle his next start.

“He loves to follow speed and is probably better from behind.”

Sebs Choice has had 26 starts for 13 wins and seven placings.

For complete race results, click here.

by Amanda Rando, for Harnesslink