Seasider (Downbytheseaside) confirmed his potential with a last to first harness racing success in the Listed $75,000 Western Regional Championship Final at Bathurst on Friday evening.

The race was a wide open affair with Nathan Turnbull preparing two runners and Amanda Turnbull three including Seasider. She elected to drive the inform She The Devil.

However punters preferred her other runner Baby You’re The One who was backed into favourite but there was also strong support for Art of Terror who was drawn the pole. Despite his impressive Heat win when he was unfancied Seasider was kept safe in the betting.

Ashleigh Delosa who was given the drive on Seasider eased back to the rear of the field from the wide draw when the mobile was released.

SEASIDER 30 JAN REPLAY

Flash Azarat showed plenty of speed to lead early but he surrendered to Baby You’re The One. Last year’s winner Hunter Shannon took off early to race outside the leader. Outsider Betting Ranger took off from the rear after the bell and Seasider was still at the rear but with cover.

To the surprise of many Betting Ranger who was doing a power of work got the better of Baby You’re The One but he could not withstand the finishing burst of Seasider who prevailed by four metres with Art of Terror finishing strongly for third. It was a great effort by Betting Ranger and he’s ready to win a race soon.

Seasider rated 1.56.5 and his effort was made even more impressive by the fact that he came from so far back to win convincingly.

Winning driver Ashleigh Delosa was especially pleased the way the race turned given the fast early pace.

It really suited me especially when that horse went three wide early. I thought I’d better get on this one’s back. It really worked in his favour. He was travelling really good. I didn’t want to pull out too early because he can hit the front and switch off. He definitely felt like the winner.

Its very special to get a winner for Amanda. She’s been really good to me . She puts me on when she can so I’m really grateful.

There’s nothing really special with Seasider’s breeding. His dam is the New Zealand MCardle mare Miss MCardle who only had two starts. She has also left the mare Miss Mach who won five races and a best time of 1.52.9.

But given his two recent wins, it shouldn’t take too long for Seasider to win at Menangle Park headquarters and he will be especially suited by the big track.

For complete race results, click here.

by Tony Milanese, for Harnesslink