Nelson Cup goes to American Ideal mare

By Joshua Smith, Harness News Desk

Allamericanlover was successful in her hit-and-run mission to Nelson on Friday when taking out the Nelson Pine Industries Nelson Cup (3000m).

The Amanda and Steve Telfer-trained mare took some strong northern form into the race and was duly backed into $2.60 favouritism.

She began well from behind the 10m mark for driver Tim Williams who pressed forward with the mare to take an early lead before handing up to Above N Beyond.

Down the back straight Williams decided he wanted to take control of the race once again and swept around Above N Beyond to assume the lead once again.

The pair remained untouched in front, running away to a two-length victory.

Amanda Telfer, who heads the stable’s southern barn, was pleased with the win and was full of praise for Williams’ drive.

“Tim drove her great and she went really well,” Telfer said.

“We were fairly confident heading into the race (following her northern form).

“Tim worked her on Wednesday, and he said we can’t get her any better, so that was good enough for me.

“She is quite a nice mare.”

Her rivals will get a reprieve on the second day of the meeting on Sunday, with her trainer’s electing to head back to Canterbury with her in preparation for some bigger targets.

“We are heading home tomorrow (Saturday) and she will head towards the mares races now,” Telfer said.

View the Nelson results click here!