Rockin Gemma too strong in taking out The Radiant

The initial running of the $100,000 Radiant at Port Pirie saw a classic race with young driver Hannah Lewis scoring her most important win with Rockin Gemma (Rock N Roll Heaven) following up her Heat success earlier in the night.

The five year old mare has been in a number of stables including Peter Rixon’s New South Wales complex and then up until a few months ago with Michelle Phillips.

But since August she’s been with Matthew Horsnall a former Victorian who earlier in the year decided to settle at Mount Gambier and has been prepared to travel around both South Australia and Victoria with his team.

In a keen betting race Classic Line was installed favourite due to a favourable pole draw. But there was plenty of support for Rockin Gemma.

ROCKIN GEMMA 10 OCT REPLAY

And Classic Line looked the one to beat when he held the lead. But it was a tightly packed field as they turned for home with any number of chances. Rockin Gemma who was one out and two back in the final lap unleashed with a strong sprint as she moved up to challenge Classic Line. Chase The Stars followed Rockin Gemma to issue her challenge but in the home straight Rockin Gemma packed too many guns and she prevailed over a game Classic Line and Chase The Stars.

In winning Rockin Gemma set a new track record of 1.52.5. The mare is owned by Liam Mason.

The first heat was won by Rockin Gemma who although she caused a false start finished too well over Chase The Stars and Mikis Beauty.

However she was then placed out of the draw for the Final.

Repelling who was heavily backed in the second heat scored a comfortable all the way win defeating Keto and Narobi.

 

For complete race results, click here.

By Tony Milanese for Harnesslink