Just Believe continues to be invincible

Australia’s leading trotter Just Believe (Orlando Vici) repelled yet another challenge to his title when he outstayed his harness racing rivals In the $75,000 Group 1 Aldebaran Park Bill Collins sprint at Melton.

Drawn favourably and justifying his short priced odds, Just Believe was allowed to amble outside the pole marker Ollivici who held the front. Greg Sugars didn’t seem concerned being outside as he has often been in this position before grinding his rivals into the ground. 

Just Believe’s arch rival Callmethebreeze from the second row whipped around the outside of the field but could not cross and he was forced to stay three wide.

Just Believe edged in front of Ollivici on turning for home but to the surprise of many Ollivici fought back and actually for a fleeting moment looked as if he would cause an upset. But Just Believe showing his superb qualities moved ahead and he prevailed over Ollivici by one and a half metres with Mufasa Metro finishing quickly along the rails for third.

He’s a champion! 🏆

Just Believe brings up another Group 1 victory in the Aldebaran Park Bill Collins Trotters Sprint for Greg Sugars and Jess Tubbs tonight at Melton. pic.twitter.com/dEw0Zd3hVg

— The Trots (@TheTrotsComAu) October 12, 2024

Just Believe ran the 1720 metres in 1.54.1 with a last quarter in a sizzling 27.6 seconds. 

Greg Sugars who completed his second Group 1 within 30 minutes was full of praise for Just Believe. 

“I Knew he’d rally. He always finds something. I was a little bit concerned when Chris Lang pushed the button on Ollivici on straightening and he had a kick. To win the way he did was very pleasing. We aer mindful he’s done a lot of racing. We have an extensive list of things we want to do moving forward all going well”.

Ollivici was gallant finishing second and seems to be returning to the promising form that he displayed earlier in his career.

Just Believe will now go over to New Zealand for the trotters cup and hope to keep his unbeaten record in the shaky isles where he has now won four races. He will then return to Australia in December to defend his Inter Dominion title.

On his current form he still looks the testing material in whatever he contests. 

For complete race results, click here.

by Tony Milanese, for Harnesslink