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It was one of the harness racing training efforts of the seasons.
Hats off to Bet N Win’s (What The Hill) trainers David and Stacey White and driver Bob Butt who after missing a key lead up race managed to have their horse ready to win last night’s $200,000 Group One Reharvest Rowe Cup at Alexandra Park.
“It was a great race, things were happening here there and everywhere and it worked out great for us,” Butt said after the race.
The Canterbury reinsman positioned Bet N Win back on the running line ending up three back for most of the 3200 metre journey.
When leader Not As Promised ran off the inside heading out of the last bend favourite Mighty Logan pushed through with Bet N Win hard on his tail. Straightening up Bet N Win hit the front and gamely held out a late run from Mr Love to win by a nose.
BET N WIN REPLAY
“He was running out of puff a 150 from home but when Mr Love came he pinned his ears back and tried his guts out. He got a great trip and full credit to him. One thing that we thought we had in our favour is that he does go well fresh. It’s not like he’s fresh up for a campaign he just missed that one run.”
The night was full of emotion after the death of Australian horseman Greg Sugar who won the Rowe Cup this time last year.
Good friend Gavin Smith wore Sugars colours driving One Over All while Bet N Win had Sugars colour red and green tied to his head gear.
“I think we may have had a wee birdie on our shoulders for the last ten metres. Thanks Sugars.”
The win creates a marvellous Butt family record in the great race with Bob’s great grandfather Wes driving Even Speed to win in 1979, his grandfather Robin driving the 1970 winner Global Hall and Bob’s father David reining Stig to win in 2013.
The win was also memorable for Ken and Karen Beckon who not only bred Bet N Win but have a share in the gelding.
The Breckon’s also won the race twice with I Can Doosit in 2011 and 2012.
For complete race results, click here.
by Bruce Stewart, for Harnesslink
