Vance Lane on best behaviour for Manning in 2YO trotters success

The highly respected Manning stable so renowned for their previous trotters success may have unearthed another potential star when Vance Lane (Elite Stride) finished too strongly to win the Garrards Horse and Hounds two year old trot at Melton on Saturday night.

At his opening start Vance Lane was tailed off and then last start at Bendigo he broke up but at Melton with the experience under his belt was on his best behaviour.

In a fast run race Mystical Truscott led the field but surrendered the lead to stablemate Truscotts Elegance but he broke up. Vance Lane was enjoying a one out and one back trail with favourite Jays All That was right behind him.

Vance Lane made his run three wide with Jays All That out wider. Jays All That looked certain to charge to the lead but Vance Lane showed plenty of heart and he was too strong on the night over Jays All That with newcomer Howdy Mate an eye catching third and not that far from the winner. Vance Lane is trained by Peter Manning and driven by daughter Kerryn.

VANCE LANE MAY 17 REPLAY

Kerryn Manning was a relieved driver following the event.

“I was very careful. There were a few long hops there and I was just holding my breath the whole way up the straight wishing him to trot. I did a few little taps I was too scared to pull the plugs.”

“He hung in a little bit when I wanted him to come out on the bend and I was having a bit of trouble getting him out. I took my time to get him around the corner before I chased him.”

“But he still wasn’t 100% safe but he didn’t gallop this time and I got the job done.”

“He needs to mend his manners a little bit more but he’s certainly got a bit of ability. He’s got a bit of size about him and he gets over the ground very well.”

“It’s just greenness I suppose is his main issue at the moment. He did that quite easily. He’s got ability but we don’t know how much yet.”

Jays All That finished well and he should salute the winners circle soon.

For complete race results, click here.

By Tony Milanese for Harnesslink