All Sweet for Bella

A bold front running drive by Ryan Duffy enabled Sweet Bella (Sweet Lou) to record an all the way harness racing win in the Renown Silverware Mares Free For All at Melton last night.

At the start of the race, Sew What showed speed to lead, but Duffy out wider on Sweet Bella pressed on and found the front. Hot favourite Rakero Rebel, who was the sole second row runner, weaved her way through the field, but she had to race outside the leader. At one stage she seemed to race with her head on the side. 

Nonetheless, she stuck to her task and continued to edge up to the leader. However, Sweet Bella kicked clear on turning for home for what appeared to be a comfortable win. Sew What was unable to make up much ground along the inside and it was left to the only three-year-old filly Sweetnikilou who had been three back on the rails to issue a strong challenge. Despite her fast finish she failed by a neck with Sew What third. 

BLISTERING SPEED!
Ryan Duffy and Sweet Bella dominated the Renown Silverware Mares Free For All tonight running a brilliant mile rate of 1:51:3. This victory marks Duffy's first driving win for trainer Emma Stewart. pic.twitter.com/stwkcCbXN1

— The Trots (@TheTrotsComAu) November 23, 2024

The win was Ryan Duffy’s first success for Emma Stewart and he was relieved after the event. 

“She was doing it pretty good and I’m thankful to get the opportunity to drive these ones tonight. Obviously she stripped better for her last run (when second to Jilliby Willow in the Make Mine Cullen mares race a fortnight back). Clayton and Emma were really happy that she came through that run so they were expecting her to go a lot better tonight and she put the writing on the wall that she’s a good mare and she should be. For them to entrust me on this one tonight you know I can’t be more thankful.”

Sweetnikilou was a gallant runner up and had the race been a little longer she would have won. She is possessed of a fast sprint and will be one to watch in similar company. 

For complete race results, click here.

by Tony Milanese, for Harnesslink