Maiden upsets in $50,000 Fillies Sires Stakes

Canterbury harness racing driver Samantha Ottley made the trip North and drove a perfect race with Monaco Grace to upset the favourite and win the (Listed) $50,000 Magness Benrow Magnifique 3YO Fillies Sires Stakes at Alexandra Park tonight.

Ottley pushed the go button early with Monaco Grace (Bettor’s Delight) and nabbed the early trail behind leader Mr Kaplan and driver Tony Herlihy.

Favourite for the race Queen Of Diamonds and driver Mark Purdon were obliged to sit parked.

In the straight Monaco Grace slipped up the passing lane and held out a strong challenge from Queen Of Diamonds to win by a head. Mr Kaplan held on for third.

“She handled herself super and gate speed was the key. It was a good way to win her first race,” Ottley said after the victory.

MONACO GRACE REPLAY

by Harnesslink Media