Magnificent Storm too strong in Fremantle Cup

Grand pacer Magnificent Storm (American Ideal) added to his impressive harness racing record with an all the way win In the Group 1 $300,000 Retravision Fremantle Pacing Cup at Gloucester Park on Friday evening.

Perfectly drawn on the pole, Magnificent Storm’s task was made easier with the unfortunate withdrawal of his arch rival Minstrel and as a result he was backed into favouritism.

As expected showing his customary brilliant early speed Magnificent Storm had little trouble holding the early lead.

From the inside of the second row Golden Lode was able to follow right through to sit right behind the leader with Bulletproof Boy sitting three back on the rails. Ubetcha Tigerpie was out wide and eventually had to race outside the leader giving Max Delight last week’s Nullabor winner the gun run with a one out and one back trail. Tasmanian Triedtotellya couldn’t go with them early and he settled back one out and three back.

The big question was whether Magnificent Storm could stay the testing 2936 metres despite having previously won a Marathon over 3300 metres in August 2021 but driver Aiden De Campo was able to lead and dictate his own pace without any pressure from those behind him. And the race was falling into his favour when he ran the first quarter in just 31 seconds ensuring he would have something left at the business end of the race.

MAGNIFICENT STORM 24 APR REPLAY

Max Delight who had a similar run to last week when he took out the Nullabor eased out to make his run but there was to be no repeat of that performance and Golden Lode got clear at the top of the straight but Magnificent Storm had plenty in reserve running his last quarter in 26.7 seconds to hold the former on bay with Max Delight in third.

Aiden De Campo reflected on the big win after the event.

I’m always on the cautious side heading into big races I thought there’d be a few horses making moves wanting to go forward.

When we got that first lap as comfortable as we did, he was travelling as strong as he was. He felt like a winner a long way out. It’s a credit to Ray and Robbie and everybody who’s looked after the horse. It hasn’t been easy with him over the years. We’ve kind of missed a few of these races and gone sore so it’s good to get one on the board. He’s been a brilliant horse and taking the owners on a ride. They’re all excited and its really good.

Magnificent Storm trained by Ray Williams has been one of West Australia’s most outstanding pacers in recent years having had 78 starts for 48 wins and 15 placings. The nine year old gelding is gradually closing in the $2million prize money mark having already won $1,802,687.

There were few excuses for the beaten division. Golden Lode had a good run throughout behind the leader while Max Delight ran his usual honest race. Ubetcha Tigerpie held on for fourth after having a hard run outside the leader. But all honours were with Magnificent Storm who now adds a Fremantle Cup to his illustrious record.

For complete race results, click here.

By Tony Milanese for Harnesslink