Obviously Victorian harness racing couple Gary and Debbie Quinlan would like to continue their strong affiliation with the rich Australian Pacing Gold series.
The duo have captured two of the last three editions of the fillies’ division, scoring with Musical Delight in 2012 and her half-sister, Queen Of Pop, last year.
As for this season’s running, the Quinlans annexed both fillies’ heats at Melton last Friday night with Sahara Sunrise and Magical Delight.
The latter youngster has become the stable’s sentimental favourite due to the ill-health of breeder Geoff Fothergill.
“We’d love to see both fillies win for their owners, but Magical Delight has a bit of a story behind her,” Debbie said.
“She was bred by Geoff Fothergill, but sadly due to a kidney disease he’s had to sell his horses.
“We happened to be at Benstud and when Gary saw this filly he made an inquiry whether she was up for sale.
“Geoff owned her and her dam, Modern Girl, which he loved, but he had to sell them and sold the mare with foal at foot.
“Within 10 minutes of her win the other night, Geoff was on the phone congratulating us.”
Driven by Chris Alford, Magical Delight impressed at her debut run when accounting for Jilliby Jitterbug and Rockstar Angel in 1:58.2 for the 1720 metres.
Also partnered by Alford, Sahara Sunrise rated 1:59.9 to beat Tricka Treat Lombo and Gallifrey Mystique to register her maiden win from five starts.
-
PAUL COURTS