Herbie’s classic drive on I’m Bobby in Shepparton Trotters Cup

Punters who backed I’m Bobby (Majestic Son) have harness racing driver James Herbertson to thank after a masterly front running display in taking out the Group 3 Munro and Associates Shepparton Trotters Cup at the Goulburn Valley raceway on Saturday night.

Considered a match race between I’m Bobby and Arcee Phoenix, the barrier draw in the small field proved vital as the normally brilliant beginner I’m Bobby charged to the lead. Arcee Phoenix who had run his best race for ages when a gallant second to Keayang Zahara last week at Bendigo was allowed to stride alongside I’m Bobby with outsider Tweedledee behind the leader.

At some stage Chris Svanosio knew that he would have take it up to I’m Bobby during the race. However Herbertson made sure that he had a clear length on his rival and every time Arcee Phoenix edged closer I’m Bobby would give that extra kick to stay clear.

Going into the back straight Svanosio asked Arcee Phoenix for a little more but that was when Herbertson gradually released the brakes and suddenly I’m Bobby had six metres over his rivals.

The race was well and truly over at the top of the straight and I

IM BOBBY 17 JAN REPLAY

’m Bobby just free wheeled his way to an easy win by just under 14 metres from Arcee Phoenix with his stable mate Gotfeelingsyouknow a further six metres away in third.

I’m Bobby’s mile rate of 1.59.6 for the 2690 metre journey was a new track record.

I’m Bobby found Keayang Zahara too strong last week but he’s a different proposition when he’s front and last night exemplified his front running ability.

Raced and trained by local identity Eddie Tappe who trains a team at nearby Congupna, I’m Bobby was one of Victoria’s most improved trotters last season and now that he is in the big time he will make his presence felt in the forthcoming trotters features although no one would suggest that he can take on the existing wonder mare Keayang Zahara.

James Herbertson commented afterwards

He jogged that really I really didn’t expect him to be as comfortable as he was. And I opened him up a little bit on the turn and shut him down late. So I can’t ask much more of him.

The first time I had anything to do with Eddie I’d seen him behind the TAB here when it was open here. He’s always had one or two going around. Then he got a couple of ones that he’s having a bit of fun with being Abbie and this bloke. Unfortunately he’s not behind the TAB anymore. He’s just a loved bloke at the club and he’s an absolute gentleman as I’ve said time and time again. I think we’ll be saying it for a very long time.

Herbertson offered encouragement to Arcee Phoenix after finishing runner up.

It’s not easy to park outside a horse when they’re bowling like that. I’m sure you’ll see a much better horse when he returns to the track but we’ll take this one.

For Eddie Tappe it was a memorable night. Earlier I’m Bobby’s elder full sister Abbie (Majestic Son) showed plenty of grit when she outstayed her rivals in the Goodfellows Goulburn Valley Regional Trotters Final.

For complete race results, click here.

by Tony Milanese, for Harnesslink