30 May 2024 | HRSA Media
SOUTH Australia’s very own version of ‘The Little Engine That Could’ finally climbed his mountain!
In the children’s story, the smallest locomotive becomes a hero by achieving a feat previously considered unattainable all while chanting “I think I can” over and over during the task.
Minus the self-boosting pep-talk, Sportsflight overcame a peak earlier touted as impossible by breaking his maiden in Port Pirie Tuesday night.
Heading into the victory, Sportsflight had registered five seconds and a third from seven starts – including being runner-up during his first four outings!
“He just had a knack of finding one better on the night,” trainer Mick Darling said. “He’s obviously got some ability, but for some reason, he couldn’t get that elusive win.
“To finally see him get that first win on the board is very enjoyable and satisfying.”
Driven by prominent horsewoman Leah Holman, Sportsflight was eased away from barrier four to be settled three-back along the pegs as Bravo Mac led from gate two.
Dashed to the lead along the back straight, the son of Sportswriter sustained a solid sprint to score by eight metres from Bourdain, which was gallant after racing in the ‘death seat’.
Santiago Lou produced an eye-catching run to be a half-head away third after missing the start by 15 metres.
With the last half run in 60.7 seconds, Sportsflight covered the mile in 1:58.2.
“It was a great drive from Leah,” Darling said. “When the two up front put the speed on early I started thinking this would work out for him, and once he hit the front, I was confident he wouldn’t get run down.
“I’ll give him another run or two over the next month then tip him out for winter and hope he can come back a little better again next time in.”
Approved By Dean Baring www.harnessbred.com
Driving The Future Of Harness Racing
