Minstrel’s tune in taking the WA Cup

Noted big race performer Minstrel (Rocknroll Hanover) rose to the occasion yet again when he took out the $450,000 Group 1 Tabtouch West Australia Pacing Cup at Gloucester Park last night.

In a truly outstanding harness racing performance, Minstrel was forced to race outside the leader when Pinny Tiger as expected had held the lead from the pole position.

In a tactical race, Gary Hall on favourite Mister Smartee was able to secure the perfect one out and one back trail with the Victorian raider Captain Ravishing right behind him in the one out and two back trail.

Minstrel’s win completed a second Group 1 for star reinswoman Deni Roberts as the week prior she had won the WA Derby on Christopher Dance.

Tenzing Bromac was out three wide three back at the bell and flushed out Aiden De Campo on Captain Ravishing come out on Captain Ravishing but Hall stayed in his position with Mister Smartee.

Minstrel quickly got the better of Pinny Tiger with Captain Ravishing in hot pursuit. Mister Smartee was momentarily checked going for a run but he then came out three wide alongside Captain Ravishing. But by this time, Minstrel has cleared away. Mister Smartee was giving away too much of a start and although he narrowed the margin to 1.5 metres Minstrel fully deserved his win given the amount of work he was required to do. 

MINSTREL REPLAY

Prepared by prolific training couple Greg and Skye Bond Minstrel has been a great money spinner for his connections and the New Zealand bred gelding has won 24 of his 64 appearances for just under $1.3 million in stake money.

Included in his previous wins have been a Fremantle Cup, Lord Mayors Cup, and the Golden Nugget as a four year old.

In running the 2536 metre journey in a mile rate of 1.55, Minstrel was not too far off Vampiro’s track record of 1.54.1.

Mister Smartee was gallant in defeat as he was doing his best work at the finish. Mighty Ronald also finished well and Captain Ravishing was a credible fourth but he was given every chance by Aiden De Campo.

For complete race results, click here.

by Tony Milanese, for Harnesslink