Fighter Command torches rivals in Melton Free For All

Fighter Command (Always B Miki) produced a commanding harness racing display to take out the Swift Signs Free For All at Melton on Saturday night, stopping the clock in a slick 1:52.0 mile rate over 1720m.

Driven by Kerryn Manning for trainer Jess Tubbs, the five‑year‑old gelding overcame a wide second‑row draw to surge home powerfully, defeating Catch A Wave and Bulletproof Boy. The margin of victory was 9.1m on the line. What makes the win even more remarkable is that the last quarter was 26.8 as he left multi-millionaire pacer and leader Catch A Wave, in the dust.

He raced 1 out 4 back at the bell before Manning timed her run to perfection, grabbing three-wide cover behind Sir Jimmy. The gelding did the rest with his electrifying sprint, justifying the late support into $3.50 favouritism.

FIGHTER COMMAND 22 AUG REPLAY

Saturday’s victory was Fighter Command’s 15th career win from just 31 starts. It was the first time Manning had driven the gelding in a race.

After the race, Manning praised Fighter Command.

“He’s got a big motor. He gets over the ground very easily,” Manning said.

“It’s nice to drive a horse like him. I haven’t driven one with a motor that feels that big for quite a while. Very pleased to be able to pick up the drive.

“He’s becoming a real racehorse now, whereas early on he could do a bit wrong.

“When I asked him, he doesn’t even feel like he accelerates, he gets past everybody like they are standing still.”

It was the first race back for Fighter Command who was last seen contesting the Inter Dominion Championship won by wonder mare Captains Mistress in July. He ran fifth in the final and will now be aimed at the Victoria Cup in October.

For complete race results, click here.

by Trent Orwin for Harnesslink