GREAT Result proved she is more than just one-dimensional when the Kootingal mare worked hard early to lead and then defy all challengers in a strong win that produced a first-ever driving treble for young driver James Harding.
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She also won a course jackpot of around $1800 for two lucky ladies and might be a winning two-sport omen for trainer Craig Clegg, who is also a member of the North Tamworth Bears rugby league club committee.
The Bears have a huge grand final replay and local derby against West Lions at Scully Park tomorrow, a game in which Clegg’s son Richard will play a key role as their goalkicking five-eighth.
“It’s going to be a big game,” Craig Clegg said Thursday evening after the aptly named Great Result’s impressive win.
“Both teams are unbeaten – it’s going to be interesting.”
What is interesting is the continual development of Great Result and her young driver.
“My first ever treble,” an excited Harding said after he had won earlier on his father’s two-year-old Sackheim and then Hes Our Boy for Tony Missen.
“I’ve had a few doubles but never a treble. Unbelievable.”
Harding had to work hard early to lead and then rated the eight-year-old mare perfectly to beat Dontbefoolish (Lola Weidemann) by three metres with Great Result’s stablemate, The Muse, a closing third just 1.25m away.
“Great Result?” The Leader enquired of Clegg as he detached her gear.
“Yes,” was the simple answer delivered with a big grin.
“I was in the stewards’ room before the race and told them the instructions were to go forward on both horses,” he added.
“It’s only a mile and you’ve got to be close and handy.
“That was very pleasing. She showed she’s not one-dimensional, doesn’t have to sit back and come from behind to win.
“She did a bit of work too when Nathan (Carroll) won on her and tonight James led all the way.”
Great Result had won a Saturday race at Addington Paceway in New Zealand when Clegg found her and bought her for old friends Neil and Sam Paget.
“I used to drive for Neil and Sam 30 years ago in Sydney,” he said.
“They are at Young now.”
Also in the ownership with Sam and Neil Paget are Craig’s parents, Joyce and Richie Clegg senior.
She is also likely to start at Tamworth next meeting on Thursday June 16.
“She will jump in grade now,” Clegg said.
“There should be something for her at Tamworth.”
