Considered a match race between I’m Bobby and Arcee Phoenix, the barrier draw in the small field proved crucial as the normally brilliant novice I’m Bobby stormed into the lead. Arcee Phoenix, who had run his best race in ages when a brave second to Keayang Zahara was allowed to step alongside I’m Bobby in Bendigo last week with outsider Tweedledee behind the leader.
IM BOBBY JAN 17 REPEAT
At one point, Chris Svanosio knew he would have been competing against I’m Bobby during the race. However, Herbertson made sure he had a clear length on his rival and every time Arcee Phoenix got closer I gave Bobby that extra kick to stay clear.
On the back straight, Svanosio asked Arcee Phoenix for a little more, but that was the moment when Herbertson gradually released the brakes and suddenly I Bobby was six meters above his rivals.
The race was well and truly over at the top of the straight and I’m Bobby just pulling clear to an easy win just under 14 meters from Arcee Phoenix with his stablemate Gotfeelingsyouknow another six meters further in third.
I’m Bobby’s mileage of 1.59.6 for the 2690 meter journey was a new track record.
I’m Bobby and thought Keayang Zahara was too strong last week, but he’s a different proposition when he’s up front and last night he was an example of his running ability.
I’m Bobby, raced and trained by local identity Eddie Tappe, who trains a team in nearby Congupna, was one of Victoria’s most improved trotters last season and now that he’s in the big time, he’ll make his presence felt in the trotting features to come, although no one would suggest he could take on existing wondermare Keayang Zahara.
James Herbertson commented afterwards
He was jogging so fast that I really didn’t expect him to be as comfortable as he was. And I opened it a little on the turn and closed it late. So I can’t ask much more from him.
The first time I had anything to do with Eddie, I saw him here behind the TAB when it was open here. There was always one or two around. Then he got a few that he had a little fun with as Abbie and this guy. Unfortunately, he no longer supports the TAB. He’s just a well-liked guy at the club and he’s an absolute gentleman, as I’ve said time and time again. I think we’ll be saying it for a long time.
Herbertson cheered on Arcee Phoenix after finishing second.
It’s not easy to park in front of a horse when he’s bowling like that. I’m sure you’ll see a much better horse when he returns to the track, but we’ll take this one.
It was a memorable evening for Eddie Tappe. Previously, I’m Bobby’s older full sister Abbie (Majestic Son) showed great grit as she left her rivals behind in the Goodfellows Goulburn Valley Regional Trotters Final.
By Tony Milanese for Harnesslink
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