Gatesy’s Gem impresses in Tatlow Stakes

Outstanding harness racing filly Gatesy’s Gem (Aldebaran Eagle) gave a classic leader’s performance when she prevailed to win the $25,000 Aldebaran Park Tatlow stakes for two year old trotters at Melton last night.

Gatesys Gem was a solid favourite and her task was made much easier when New South Wales visitor Rainbow Jester was slowly out from the pole position then galloping effectively losing chance as he settled well back at the rear. 

Driver Nathan Jack who was taking the reins for the first time steadied Gatesys Gem in front. Keayang Kurki who had previously won the VicBred 2YO trotters final settled behind the leader while the colts winner of the VicBred 2YO Commodus one out and two back.

Consistent gelding Vytas had the one out and one back trail. However at the business end of the race, Gatesys Gem sprinted clear away for a winning move and at the finish she had 3 metres to spare from a game Vytas who just edged out Keayang Kurti. 

Gatesys Gem proves too good for rivals as she cruises home for driver Nathan Jack in the Aldebaran Park Tatlow Stakes for 2YO Trotters. A great training success for Glenn Hunter. Congratulations to the connections involved in this talented young filly. pic.twitter.com/2ACS3yx9PS

— The Trots (@TheTrotsComAu) October 19, 2024

Gatesys Gem is trained by Gippsland based Glenn Hunter who had driven the filly in her previous runs but on this occasion he elected to give the drive to Nathan Jack who was notably modest after the event.

“I was really impressed with her manners. There was a query after her Vicbred performance. She was just perfect. I can’t take any credit, I just jumped on. All credit to Glenn and the team. I whistled her up a few times. I don’t think the margin did her performance any justice because she done that really easy, I never even turned the whip. I’m looking forward to what the future holds for her. That’s for sure”.

Gatesys Gem has now won five of her six races and she must now be considered favourite for the $75,000 Redwood Classic to be run at Maryborough on 27 October. Even though the Redwood always brings together a classy field Gatesys Gem appears to be classes above her rivals.

For complete race results, click here.

by Tony Milanese, for Harnesslink