Lovemeto bounces back to win 4YO Classic

Punters were right on the ball when promising trotter Lovemeto (What The Hill) scored a strong all the way win in the Haras Des Trotteurs Delvin Dancer 4YO Trotters Classic at Melton last night.

Confidently backed into a short priced favourite Lovemeto moved away safely and after balancing him early driver Chris Svanosio steered him to the front.  

Second favourite Rapid Return was able to take the trail after surrendering the lead early in the race. Imperial Monarch was caught racing outside the leader but then secured a trail when Virginia Clowers raced up outside in the straight with a lap left to travel.

Lovemeto was always travelling well within himself and although Rapid Return went for an inside run, Lovemeto was safely holding his opponents and he had 2 metres to spare over a plucky Rapid Return with the fast finishing Call Me Jack a credible third. 

As a younger horse the New Zealand bred Lovemeto showed great promise proving himself to be one of the best three year olds winning the New Zealand Trotters Derby. He then come to Victoria where he was successful in a Heat of the Trotters Derby but failed to perform in the Final and was sent back home by his trainer Graeme Rogerson.

New Zealand-bred Lovemeto brings up a running double for trainer-driver Chris Svanosio in the Haras Des Trotteurs Delvin Dancer 4yo Trotters Classic at Melton. pic.twitter.com/HOIrUts0VR

— The Trots (@TheTrotsComAu) November 9, 2024

Svanosio who also trains the gelding was relieved after the event.

“It worked out well first up. He was not ready for a gut buster. He’s obviously a lovely horse. He was NZ trotter of the year. He was having a few problems so part owner Merv Butterworth wanted him checked at the Ballarat Clinic. He has the ability to win some nice races. It’s a matter of keeping him sound and hopefully keep progressing with each run. He has to step up in grade but I’m hoping he can measure up to the very best ones. “

Lovemeto’s win was a double for Svanosio. In the previous event he was successful with American bred mare Aldebaran Acrux (Chapter Seven) who was most impressive in taking out the 2Construct trotters event from the mobile. Well supported into favouritism the mare is raced by Duncan McPherson of Aldebaran Lodge and she will be a valuable broodmare when she finishes racing. 

For complete race results, click here.

by Tony Milanese, for Harnesslink