The Janitor sends a message

Up and coming local pacer The Janitor (Always B Miki) stamped his credentials for the forthcoming Rising Sun when he scored a most impressive harness racing win in the Selective Motors Pace at Albion Park on Saturday evening.

Despite starting a prohibitive odds on favourite, The Janitor could not muster enough speed from the pole position and Nathan Dawson took Calling Buddy to the front.

O B Legal had the sit behind the leader and this put The Janitor in an awkward position under lock and key three back on the rails.

New South Wales visitor Ripp who has a fast turn of pace was taken around the field by his driver Bernie Hewitt. The situation looked grim as they went along the back straight as he was still locked away. Ripp took the lead on the final bend but at that point Pete McMullen eased The Janitor off the rails and although out three wide on straightening literally sprouted wings to put the issue quickly beyond doubt.

THE JANITOR JUN 14 REPLAY

He finished ahead of Miracle Moose who was not disgraced with Ripp in third position.

Winning owner Craig Whiteoak was not perturbed when he was asked about being concerned in the run.

“Not really” he replied.  “He only needed half a break and I knew he would be in the finish. It was good seeing him coming three back from the fence. As soon as he saw daylight he put it away really quickly he was impressive.”

“I was happy to let Peter do as he did  We probably expected to be at least behind the leader and three on the fence where he ended up. Gate speed isn’t his biggest asset at the moment.  But that’s something we’re working on. He’s only had 21 starts. He’s never drawn one before.”

Whiteoak was asked about the prospects for The Janitor in the Rising Sun.  “I’m getting a but nervous because I think we’re going to be a genuine chance.” Similarly when questioned as to whether he could be better than his former star Duke of Scotland  he stated “I think he will be in time, Duke of Scotland  I think he still holds the best record for a horse that I have had.”

“I think this bloke’s going to take his mantle though. I’ve got a really high opinion of this bloke. He’s good enough.”

Trainer Chantal Turpin and driver Pete McMullen have a huge opinion of The Janitor and he is bound to be a worthy local representative in the $300,000 Group 1 Rising Sun on July 5.

For complete race results, click here.

By Tony Milanese for Harnesslink