Faith Not Fear delivers passing lane knockout to hot favourite

Faith Not Fear (Captaintreacherous) announced himself as a youngster with serious potential, producing a blistering passing lane sprint to upset hot favourite Tour Party in just his second career harness racing start at Addington.

Driven by Samantha Ottley for Hayden and Amanda Cullen, the two-year-old showed electric gate speed to lead from barrier six before Anthony Butt eased Tour Party across to take over. From there, Ottley was content to bide her time behind the favourite.

Turning for home, it became a two-horse war.

Ottley waited until the passing lane opened before asking Faith Not Fear for his effort, and the colt responded instantly, surging through to score by 1/2 length. Tour Party fought hard for second, with Fantabulous finishing a further 6 lengths away in third.

FAITH NOT FEAR REPLAY

Ottley said the colt’s biggest weapon was his natural speed, but reminded punters he is still very inexperienced.

“He’s only having his second start, so he’s still learning the craft of it all. To have that sort of gate speed is very exciting.”

Despite trailing one of the country’s most promising youngsters, Ottley said she never lost confidence.

“I’ve got the utmost respect for Tour Party, but I just gave him a wee chirp turning for home and he jumped straight up on the bridle. I know how quick he is, so I thought I’d probably go with him. It was just a matter of whether we could get past a great horse like Tour Party.”

Faith Not Fear found a bit more in the final stages and got his head in front at the right time.

“To his credit, he stuck his neck out and his last 50 metres were his best,” Ottley said.

Ottley was also grateful for the opportunity to wear the Cullen stable colours.

“It’s always a privilege to put their colours on. They’re such great trainers, and I’m certainly lucky to get the call to drive this wee boy.”

For complete race results, click here

By Harnesslink Media