Leap To Fame’s trademark courage to the fore

Australia’s leading pacer Leap To Fame (Bettors Delight) thrilled his supporters with a courageous harness racing win in the Wolf Signs Open Pace at Albion Park last night.

It was indeed a rare opportunity to see a clash between Leap To Fame and The Janitor in what was regarded as their final lead up runs to the Inter Dominion series to commence on 4 July. The Janitor has raced through the classes and is now regarded as one of the best pacers in the land.

Punters stuck with Leap To Fame ahead of The Janitor and the improving Minos.

Drawn wide, both The Janitor and Leap To Fame eased back to the rear.

LEAP TO FAME 19 JUN REPLAY

As expected Minos from barrier three went to the lead. But he didn’t have to wait very long for both firstly The Janitor and then Leap To Fame to make their way around the field.

Pete McMullen steered The Janitor to the front but then allowed Grant Dixon on Leap To Fame to take up the running. It was then left to see how The Janitor would go if stalking Leap To Fame.

Dixon maintained a fast pace although he had a breather with a second quarter of 29.2 seconds before increasing the tempo with a 27.7 seconds third quarter. Leap To Fame gained about a five metre break on the final bend as McMullen went for an inside run on The Janitor while Minos who was three back issued a challenge out wider as they straightened.

The Janitor quickly made up ground and for a fleeting moment there was the prospect of him causing an upset. But Leap To Fame showing his typical resilience and determination refused to give in and in a driving finish he beat The Janitor by a neck with Minos only two and a half metres in third.

Leap To Fame’s mile rate of 1.51.6 was just short of his own track record of 1.51 that he set back in July 2024.

Connections of all three placegetters would have been well pleased with their efforts. However on that performance Leap To Fame is likely to start short priced favourite for the two rounds of Heats and Final on 18 July.

The Janitor isn’t that far behind and he is bound to make his presence felt throughout the series. Jason Grimson who now prepares Minos would have been satisfied with his performance and he should at least take out a Heat.

For complete race results, click here.

By Tony Milanese for Harnesslink