Painting’s disappointment turns to joy as Little Sassy Boy snatches Regional Championship Final.

Trainer Jack Painting’s disappointment with the late scratching of his star filly Seaside Boulevard was partly compensated when his other runner Little Sassy Boy (Bettors Delight) stormed down the outside to snatch victory in the $75,000 TAB Regional Championship Final at Wagga last night. Heats were run at the track three days prior and Little Sassy Boy had impressed with his win.

Nonetheless Painting had nailed his main hope with Seaside Boulevard a winner of the Redcliffe Oaks and a strong heat winner. However he had no choice but to scratch the filly after she had a case of colic and obviously it was deemed it was deemed too risky to race her.

However he has a sound replacement in Little Sassy Boy. The three year old gelding was confidently driven by Nathan Jack who from the pole was three back on the rails.

Much improved mare Watermain Lady who was turned out a treat by trainer Ellen Jones showed speed from out wide and was taken to the lead by Mark Pitt ahead of the favourite Tukaha who elected to take a trail behind the leader.

Jack wasn’t too concerned about being snagged back along the rails and was assured that the right run would come up at the appropriate time.

Watermain Lady had done plenty of work early before getting a bit of a breather. Tukaha eased out to make a challenge however she was holding him off Little Sassy Boy was extricated off the fence. Despite fighting on Watermain Lady had no match for Little Sassy Boy’s quick sprint and he defeated the gallant mare by a neck with Draxon sprouting wings for third placing after being held up at a vital stage of the race.

Nathan Jack stated after the race.

They didn’t walk in the lead so they kept a pace going and he hit the line well as he had the others engaged. It’s my first win in a Riverina Championship.

The win was special for Jack given his association with Jackson Painting.

We’re great mates, Jackson stays with me when he comes to Victoria and I’ve driven for his uncle and other members of the Painting family.

 

By Tony Milanese for Harnesslink