BD Joe one better

After running second to stablemate Alta Wiseguy (Mach Three) in last year’s New Brighton Cup, BD Joe (Roll With Joe) went one better in winning tonight’s (Sep. 8) harness racing feature.

The early pace was made by Allamericanlover (American Ideal) before driver Tim Williams took BD Joe to the top with 1600 metres to run. From there he kept up a solid pace and easily held out a late charge from Mossdale Ben (Bettor’s Delight) which was a length and a half away in second place. Anything Goes (American Ideal) finished third.

B D JOE REPLAY

“It was a very good starting point. The most important thing was that he stood up well and stepped away cleanly. That’s a big thing in these races. He got himself into a good spot. Tim handled him well and he had a pretty good trip after that. His record would say not too many have got in front of him when he’s led,” co-trainer Steve Telfer said.

After the win the TAB odds for BD Joe for the New Zealand Cup shortened from $11 to $8.

BD Joe’s winning time of 3-13.1 was well outside the race record of 3-11.6 which was recorded in 1999 by OK Oscar (OK Bye).

“Last year was his first time in that grade. I think he’s a little bit harder and tougher. If you’ve got any chinks in your armour they find you out in that grade.”

Steve’s training partner and sister Amanda wasn’t on track tonight to see the win. She has the flu but watched the race from home.

“She sounded pretty disappointed. She’ll be right in a couple of days.”

It was great to see the depth of talent available for tonight’s pacing feature. The field of sixteen was the largest in the last decade.

For complete race results, click here.

by Bruce Stewart, for Harnesslink