LES Harding-trained Our Jericho NZ, proved too strong for its rivals in the UBET Victor Harbor Pacing Cup, pulling away around the final bend for a 6.30 metre lead victory, on Easter Sunday.
The eight-year-old bay gelding, driven by Australian Female Drivers Champion Danielle Hill, lead throughout the race, setting a new track record mile rate of 1.56.1.
Not only was it a new track record for Our Jericho, which surpassed the 2017 record set by stable-mate Bettor Party in 2017 (who also ran second this year), but it was also Hill’s 100th win for the season.
Our Jericho is no stranger to cup victories, also claiming the Port Pirie Pacing Cup on March 24, the Mount Gambier Cup on March 3 along with the Gawler Cup on February 10.
Hill claimed three victories for the day, with Truscott Law for Luke O’Neill in race four - Rob’s Rural Services Victor Harbor Trotters Cup, and in race one with Saab Magic for trainer David Harding.
The South Coast Hospital Auxiliary Victor Harbor Guineas was won by Torque tothe Starz for driver/trainer Ryan Hryhorec.
Hryhorec had a second win of the day with Bobbies Delight for trainer Jeremy Seal in the Pat O’Loughlin Memorial, race 3.
An exceptional crowd turned out to the races with an estimated 850 patrons through the gate.
Victor Harbor Harness Racing Club president Lynton Bishop was impressed with the turnout, saying it was one of the biggest crowds the club had seen.
He believed the “beautiful weather” and solid advertising, both in print, social media and on radio contributed to the high patron numbers, along with crowd entertainment.
“We were absolutely delighted with the race meeting - everyone had a good time and our figures were all up on corresponding meetings,” Bishop said.
“The only disappointment for us was the low horse numbers considering the prize money and trophies on offer.”
Bishop said the next race day was likely to be in late December and early January, but the club would advise patrons as soon as they knew more.
“Normal procedure is HRSA drafts a racing proposal and forwards it to each club for approval,” he said.
“The VHHRC thanks all participants, patrons and officials for their continued support, we intend to continue with our plans to both promote and present the wonderful product that is harness racing in the south.”