He’s a horse that doesn’t win out of turn and his harness racing form depends on how he begins, but Jimmy Carter (The Pres) was on his best behaviour today in taking out the $25,000 Jaccka Lodge Gore Trotting Cup.

Trained by Phil Williamson and driven by his son Matty, the ten year old settled back early before getting a nice run behind Bring On The Muscle.

Clotilde Wainwright trained by Nathan Williamson, lead for most to the trip but halfway down the straight Jimmy Carter got his nose in front and went on to win by a length from Clotilde Wainwright.

JIMMY CARTER REPLAY

It was Jimmy Carter’s twenty first win.

“He’s a good old horse but he can let himself down with his manners. When he does it right he’s proven to be a capable horse. He thrives on racing and he’s always happy to race,” Phil said.

The win was made even more special for Phil and his wife Bev because their son Nathan and his family were on course.

Nathan is currently recovering from a horror fall at Alexandra Park on 12^th December.

“That’s the best win of all. That’s the Gold Card. We’re so lucky with that. It’s a big deal to have Nathan back from where he was. It’s amazing, to be bluntly honest.”

The result might have been perfect for Phil, but Nathan’s two eldest children Millie and Lachie weren’t happy.

“He’s (Lachie) pulling that face at Matty for beating his Dad’s horse. He’s not happy and Millies not that thrilled either (laughter).”

Meanwhile the battle for the New Zealand Junior Drivers Premiership continues to be close. Wilson House and Carter Dalgety drove two winners each today and they both sit on 90 wins for the season.

House’s first win today on Racey Krusa was his 200^th.

For complete race results, click here.

by Bruce Stewart, for Harnesslink