Isthisjustfantasy last to first in Mares Classic

Smart Victorian harness racing mare Isthisjustfantasy (Betting Line) came from last to first with a withering burst when she took out the listed mares Club Menangle Teeny Teeny Stakes at Menangle Park last night.

Despite the second row draw, Isthisjustfantasy was well-supported into favouritism, although there was good backing for last-start winner Maria Alegonda and Promiseland.

Driven for the first time by Will Rixon, Isthisjustfantasy was eased back to the rear. Go Oh Micky showed electrifying speed from the mobile to cross over in front of Our Chiquitita, who elected to take the trail behind the leader. 

Maria Allegonda, Promiseland, and Major Fire were all at the rear of the field with Isthisjustfantasy a clear last along the back straight. Go Oh Micky was starting to paddle on straightening and Promiseland and Major Fire were starting to gather in the leader. However Will Rixon made the right choice by sticking to the rails, and Isthisjustfantasy stormed home in a well-timed run to comfortably defeat Joelita and Promiseland.

ISTHISJUSTFNTASY REPLAY

Legendary driver Brian Hancock was present on course to make the presentation.

At her only previous start at Menangle, Isthisjustfantasy made the final of the New South Wales Oaks in March 2023 but after being checked she finished down the track. 

Isthisjustfantasy is part of the support team that has been taken to Sydney by the Lee stable to accompany their Inter Dominion contingent. Paddy Lee, the trainer of Isthisjustfantasy, is looking after their key trotters for the series and Will Rixon has been doing the driving while Paddy’s brother Jason has been in New Zealand with their unbeaten filly Keayang Zahara.

Joelita ran an honest race, while Major Fire caught the eye finishing just behind Promiseland after being near the rear of the field.

Isthisjustfantasy has now won 11 of her 23 appearances and has the ability to take out another similar event around the Sydney circuit.

Later in the evening Keayang Wasabi trained by Paddy’s mother Margaret led all the way to take out a heat of the Brian Hancock Championship and give the stable a double and driver Will Rixon a treble. 

For complete race results, click here.

by Tony Milanese, for Harnesslink