Liam Elliott’s Group double at Gloucester Park

Twenty year old Liam Elliott scored his first Group 1 as well as a Group 2 in a superb driving display at Gloucester Park on Friday evening.

 

His Group 1 success came the way of gallant filly Seaside Seranade (Downbytheseaside) who led all the way to take out the $215,000 Allwood Stud Farm Westbred two year old fillies final.

The barrier draw was key to the event as Seaside Seranade had the plum barrier two draw on the inside of her main danger Nevele Arma. Although Dylan Egerton Green on Nevele Arma was able to secure an early trail he elected to go up and race outside Seaside Seranade.

SEASIDE SERANADE 4 SEP REPLAY

Elliott  made the winning decision in letting Seaside Seranade run a quick 27.7 seconds for the third quarter which had all her rivals off the bit chasing her. Despite the hard run and looking well beaten on the final bend Nevele Arma kept finding something and made a late charge towards the finish but failing by less than two metres to pick up Seaside Seranade. Her stablemate Scandaleyes finished a close third.

However all honours were with the winner although Nevele Arma lost no admirers in her gallant runner up performance.

Elliott commented after the race

To be fair words can’t describe it. I was probably choking up a bit when I was by myself. That was pretty special. I was thinking of the line (halfway down the straight) but she always just finds a gear. She gets a bit lonely when she’s out in front. But she kept finding and that’s what good horses do I suppose.

I’d be lying if I didn’t tell you I thought about quitting at some times. This year has been challenging for me but yes its been amazing.

Earlier in the night Elliott had teamed up with Ryan Bell and their capable pacer Lazy Dais (Rock N Roll Heaven) led all the way to take out the $100,000 Fly Like An Eagle Westbred Classic.

LAZY DAIS 4 SEP REPLAY

In a bold move towards the final bend Elliott gave Lazy Dais full rein and he cleared away even though Major Disco was able to get off the fence.

In a desperate finish Lazy Dais held off a late challenge by Major Disco to prevail by half a neck although he always looked as if he would take out the event.

By Tony Milanese for Harnesslink