Purdon takes both Group Ones

By Harnesslink · 25 March 2022 · 10:30 pm

Champion harness racing driver Mark Purdon has won both of the Group One events at Alexandra Park tonight.

Purdon opened his Group One bonanza with a narrow victory in the (G1) Pascoes The Jewellers Northern Oaks aboard True Fantasy.

True Fantasy was crossed early before heading to the front again not long after that. Purdon had no option but to hand up the lead again with a lap to go when John Dunn aboard Dance Till Dawn made a spirited bid for the lead.

In the home straight True Fantasy zipped up the passing lane and held off a late challenge from Lady Of The Light to win by a half a neck.

In tonight’s other Group One, hot favourite Akuta was too strong in the Woodlands Stud Northern Derby.

**Akuta after winning the Northern Derby (Race Images Photo)**

Mark Purdon gave the favourite a great position in the running line, and the son of Bettor’s Delight ran down the outer for a narrow but tough victory.