23 January 2023 | Ashleigh Paikos
Cody Wallrodt and Under The Alta took out the Albany Cup on Saturday night, with the $6 shot working his way to the front to lead majority of the way over the 2690m journey, taking top glory in the $19,600 feature of the night.
Sponsored by long time supporters of racing in the Great Southern, Wellington & Reeves Real Estate, the win became a personal one, with part of the ownership team local to the area.
“I was stoked, it was so good to get a win for my in-laws who are from Albany and are good friends with the Wellington & Reeves team, and obviously for Nathan (Hall) who is a big supporter for the stable,”
“He may not buy a round, but he’s good for morale.” Wallrodt joked.
After purchasing the five-year-old in September last year, the team has seen their fair share of success with the son of ill-fated Alta Christiano NZ, with a win first up and plenty of placings along the way, adding a further $11,600 to his purse after Saturday nights win.
“Big Al only does what he thinks he has to and at times doesn’t like to win but I was real easy on him through the week and it seemed to be the difference.”
“Wins like these don’t happen without the hard work and support from the team behind the scenes,”
“Big thank you to Luke Wallrodt and Shelby Colgate for their help and continued support, as well as Alta’s super group of owners, thank you for making the trip down to see the big fella get across the line.”
Nightshift would have been made bearable with the win in the cup for part-owner Nathan Hall who couldn’t make it down to the Great Southern for the feature, a first for the long-term harness racing lover.
“It was sensational, I finally won a cup.” Part-owner Nathan Hall said.
“I’ve never been able to crack it for a cup, but that’s off the bucket list now. Pity I’m at work though.”
With their sights set on another feature, Wallrodt is aiming the gelding towards the Williams Cup on February 26, where he will then head to the paddock for a much-deserved spell before looking at tackling Friday night racing in the city.
Ashleigh Paikos
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