Has the Kilmore Cup lost its pizzazz ?
Before I launch into this story I want to acknowledge Yankee Rockstar’s come from behind win in last night’s Kilmore Cup.
The Emma Stewart-trained up and coming star overhauled a brave Ohoka Punter late in the Group 2 Kilmore Cup with Beautide in third place.
All three are stars in themselves However! Has the race lost its Pizzazz?
The Cup was changed from a traditional standing start event to a mobile start race this year, and was shortened from two miles to 2690m. Some experts claim it was the best cup in years maybe so but this race has always been a test of strength and staying ability.
Just go back in history to see some of the name and watch some of the old replays on UTUBE and you will quickly understand where I am coming from.
Since it was first run back in 1964, won by You Crovottie, who started off 36 yards, the Kilmore Cup has been won by some of the best equine horse flesh in the land.
Champions like Welcome Advice, Bon Adios, “The Temora Terror” Paleface Adios, South Australian superstar Nevada Smoke, the might Pure Steel, Game Oro (two time winner)and of course PopularAlm who also won his hometown Cup twice in 1981 & 1982.
Joining Popular Alm and Game Oro as dual winners was Bitobliss for Scott Stweart in 2011 & 2012.
Apart from shorting the journey of the Kilmore Cup and making it a mobile start, HRV erred a few years back when it changed the date of the Cup from October to March. Back in the day it was traditionally held after the Cox Plate and huge crowds would flock to Kilmore to witness the best horses do battle. Now its stuck in between other country cups and a night meeting really HRV you have taken all the Pizzazz out of one of the greatest races on the calendar.
Approved By Dean Baring www.harnessbred.com
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