Copy Cat Queen in gritty win to give Aiden De Campo a double

Top mare Copy Cat Queen (My Hard Copy)  gave a career best in outstaying her harness racing rivals in the $50,000 Group 2 WASBA for mares at Gloucester Park on Friday evening.

Equal favourite with another talented mare Aardiebytheseaside, Copy Cat Queen could no take advantage of her barrier three draw being caught three wide early. For the best part of a lap she sat three wide before going up outside the leader Heavenly Gypsy who was overracing and pulling hard in front. Aiden De Campo on Copy Cat Queen eventually got some cover when Fakeinit made a run out wide to eventually sit outside the leader.

In the meantime Aardiebytheseaside was enjoying a comfortable run one out and two back and given plenty of time by Deni Roberts to time her run.

Fakeinit drew to the lead on leaving the back straight with Copy Cat Queen still battling on. At this stage Aardiebytheseaside unleashed her run and it looked a near certainty that she would gather in the leaders. But Copy Cat Queen refused to give in and showing great courage she held off Aardiebytheseaside by a head with Starlight Queen enjoying the run of the race finishing third five metres away.

COPY CAT QUEEN 9 MAY REPLAY

Aiden De Campo indicated his high opinion of the mare.

“Really unexpected to have to do it like that. There was a bit of speed in the race. Credit to the horse, she’s always shown a lot of ability, she’s always gone good driven sit and kick.

“I think going forward we had to make a few driving alterations to see if she could handle it. Tonight’s a good show that she can.

“Yes it was a career best for her tonight if she does get up to the free for all boys she’s got that high point to point speed as well. It’s just good to see her burn the candle at both ends and get the job done.”

Aardiebytheseaside was far from disgraced and there isn’t that much between her and Copy Cat Queen. But full honours with Copy Cat Queen she thoroughly deserved her success.

The win completed a double for De Campo as in the previous event he piloted the very capable Menemsha (Sunshine Beach) to a strong win over Justcallmemiki and Hugotastic.

Currently De Campo is leading both the trainers and drivers premierships at State as well as metropolitan level having made a flying start to the season.

For complete race results, click here.

By Tony Milanese for Harnesslink