Sarah O’Reilly eyes fairytale Invercargill Cup return

When American Me (American Ideal) combined to win the 2023 edition of the Invercargill Cup, it was a transitional moment for driver Sarah O’Reilly.

It seemed to signal her evolution from champion junior harness racing driver to genuine big race contender.

Dominating the junior driver’s premiership for three years, it proved that with opportunities at the highest level, she could match it with the very best.

Her blossoming driving career came to an abrupt halt when suffering substantial injuries in a trackwork accident in July 2024, including a significant break to her arm which put her out of play for close to 15 months.

But now only two months after returning to the sulky, she is back and ready to return to the spotlight – in her usual non fuss manner.

“I am feeling really good since returning – my arm is holding up well and feels like it did before breaking.”

“All the physio work I did must have made for a good foundation!”

O’Reilly has driven American Me at his last two starts, and she was particularly happy with his effort in the Forbury Pacing Cup 12 days ago.

“His effort at Wingatui was great.”

“He couldn’t have done any more off 40 metres and he dug deep in the home straight when third.”

In today’s Invercargill Cup his trademark swift beginning could well put him in a dangerous position as he returns to the front tape after chasing off that big handicap last start.

Two years ago, he stepped quickly to lead early, before taking a trail on Self Assured and outsprinting him late. A similar circumstance transpiring could see him into contention once again.

American Me is currently at $31 with defending champion The Republican Party ($1.70) and The Lazarus Effect ($2.80) the clear two top picks.

The occasion isn’t lost on Sarah either.

“It’s really nice to head back to Southland – I haven’t been back down since returning to race day driving so it will be great to catch up with everyone.”

“To have the chance at another crack at this race two years later is a credit to the horse for racing at this top level for so long.”

It is no doubt one of several ‘fairytale’ story lines in this relatively new race on the calendar – one that has already created several in its three-year history.

In disappointing late news however, the race will go without key chance We Walk By Faith after he was scratched on Thursday.

Co-trainer Hayden Cullen outlining that the horse showed signs of lameness Thursday morning and was found to have an “abscess brewing”.

For complete race entries, click here.

By Brittany Graham for Harness Racing New Zealand