Jilliby Aura looks set for a future following Nutrien 2YO trotters success

Lightly raced filly Jilliby Aura (Quaker Jet) broke through at just her fourth appearance  in all the way win in the $75,000 Nutrien Equine Two year trotters Final at Melton on Saturday evening.

From her pole draw, Jilliby Aura was specked by punters although the hot favourite was the previously unbeaten Afternoon Breeze who looked very stylish having won her first three appearances.

Glen Craven held out the early lead with Jilliby Aura with second favourite Hallebesofine racing up outside the leader and Afternoon Breeze securing the one out and one back trail.

However Jilliby Aura was not tested in the lead and Craven allowed the filly to run her first quarter in just 32.6 seconds and her second quarter in 30.7 seconds. That way the filly was always going to be hard to beat and even though Afternoon Breeze eased out on the final bend to issue a challenge Jilliby Aura had plenty in reserve to score by six metres with Hallebesofine fighting on for third after a hard run.

Jilliby Aura is trained by Antii Ruokonen who works with the Lee and Craven stables.

JILLIBY AURA SEP 13 REPLAY

Glen Craven was gracious in thanking normal driver Jason Lee who decided to play football earlier in the day and incidentally won the Grand Final.

“It’s a great thrill with Antii and all the family at home. Everyone works so hard so it’s a great rewards.”

“I thought she was my best chance for the night. I thought she had that race pretty well sewn up if she got round that last corner and just the way she’s been getting home and improving on every start. After her mistake at Bendigo Antii made a few gear adjustments and we were able to get a good draw tonight.”

“She proved it and was good enough.”

“She was really good with the false starts. Every time I backed her off the gate she relaxed. She was faultless. She came out under her own steam.”

“She was an absolute handful as a young horse. Credit to what Auntie (Margaret Lee) has done with her. She had a few headaches, but patience and persistence has paid off with her. She’s always shown a lot of ability, always thought she was very tough. But Antii had to be patient with her and go steady. I think she’ll keep improving as she hasn’t been pushed yet.”  

By Tony Milanese for Harnesslink