Trotter Delestic has spent a few days in Gore recently as harness racing trainer Nathan Williamson looks to get some 'trotting miles' into the Majestic Son mare.
He's bought her to the workouts, trials or races three times in the last ten days just to give her practice.
From the unruly mark on the second row Delestic today began slowly but safely while her main rival and favourite Jaccka Josh galloped away. Ultimately that proved to be the difference between the two in the Hokonui Honda Trot.
Delestics' winning margin at the end of the 2600 metres was two lengths.
Delestic winning easily at Gore on the grass surface – photo Bruce Stewart
"She trotted good at the workouts and we were confident that if she showed her manners she'd go well. She's got a fair amount of ability but manners are her biggest issue," said Williamson.
The four year old was having her fifth race day start and she's been in the top three favourites in all her career starts.
Her owner Ian Hunter was on-course to see her run today, taking a short break from a local bowls tournament.
Meanwhile her talented half sister Splash Cola who went amiss again recently, is due to start work again.
"Hopefully she won't go amiss this time. It was one of those wee niggly things that have been the story of her life. She's got a fair bit of ability and is right up there with horses like Dark Horse."
Bruce Stewart
Southland Harness Racing