Emotions were running high following Classic Jet’s drought breaking victory at Stawell yesterday.
Absent from the winners’ circle since May 2013, Classic Jet’s triumph was also the first since his previous trainer Lawry Mercieca passed away.
Given her husband’s love for the pacer and harness racing, Lynne Mercieca decided to apply for her trainer’s licence despite having little knowledge of preparing a horse.
“I had strapped for Lawry for a long time, so I knew a little bit, but I had never fast worked before,” Mercieca explained. “I didn’t really know the fine details of training, but have been learning as I go.
“I’ve had a lot of help from people, who have been wonderful.”
Driven by Scott Rains, Classic Jet overcame a second row draw to score by six-and-a-half metres from Doyouseewhatisee, with Elsu Prince a neck away third.
Covering the last half in 60.4 seconds, the son of Jet Laag rated 2:00.9 for the 1780 metres.
“To have him win has been very emotional,” Mercieca declared. “It reminded me of the first time he won for Lawry, which made me cry.
“Lawry loved his horses and this one is the horse I had the most to do with since he was 15 months old.”
With no major plans in mind for the eight-year-old, Mercieca will find suitable targets as they become available.
“I’m not sure where I will head with him next,” Mercieca said. “I will just find races where I can.”
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PAUL COURTS