Top trotting mare withdrawn from Inter Dominion

STAR trotting mare Jilliby Ballerini (Majestic Son) is out of next month’s Brisbane Inter Dominion.

The harness racing four-year-old, who was $3.50 second favourite to local star Gus, has been battling foot issues.

“We’ve made the call to withdraw her,” co-trainer Paddy Lee said. “Her ongoing foot issue needs time to grow out to keep her sound.”

Jilliby Ballerini, who won 10 of her 13 starts last season, has raced times this term for six wins and three seconds.

It means Team Lee will be without their two stable stars, Keayang Zahara and Jilliby Ballerini in the Inter Dominion trotting series starting at Albion Park on July 4.

Gus is now into $1.70 favourite.

Paddy Lee said the stable would still be represented in Brisbane.

“Keayang Stuka is the one who will probably go,” he said. “Imperial Monarch has gone for a spell, so he’s out, too.”

Lee said four-year-old mare Jilliby Dreamlover was on target for the $150,000 Group 1 Great Square at Albion Park on July 4.

“She’s well and will trial on Tuesday,” he said.

by Adam Hamilton for Harness Racing Victoria