There’s a lot of positive news coming from South Australian harness racing this week – with strong sales figures from the SA Cup Carnival, a new incentive for young pacers, a first winner for a remarkable broodmare and the welcome return of a time-honored classic.
Bonus boost for SA youth races
Following Harness Racing South Australia’s announcement that sales across the fortnight of the Ladbrokes SA Cup Carnival were up 17.5 per cent year-on-year – with Cup Night itself up 11.5 per cent – more good news is coming for competitors.
An additional $5,000 First Win Bonus will be introduced for eligible two-year-olds racing at Globe Derby Park in 2026.
Youth racing has long been an area in need of more support, and this initiative from the South Australian Harness Racing Club (Globe Derby) in partnership with HRSA is a welcome boost. The incentive is intended to encourage local breeding and more investment in young cattle.
To be eligible, a two-year-old must be eligible for Southern Cross and have been trained and domiciled in South Australia for a minimum of 60 days.
Broodmare Breakthrough for bubbles and cheese
Former bright juvenile Bubbles And Cheese enjoyed her first success as a broodmare when Champagne Walsh broke through for victory at Mount Gambier on Friday evening.
Bubbles And Cheese was one of the state’s leading youngsters, winning both the Golden Nursery and Southern Cross Finals at two, and finishing second in the Oaks and Southern Cross Series at three.
Champagne Walsh would have been a boost for breeder Bob Maloney, who has not been in the best of health lately. The pacer was bred and owned by Bob and his wife Zita Maloney of Glencoe.
Trotters Oaks returns to the programme
It’s also great to see the South Australian Trotters Oaks back on the schedule on Monday, with a field of six facing the starter in Globe Derby.
Interstate stables make up half the line-up, with runners Chris Lang (Jnr), Brent Lilley and Chris Svanosio among the main contenders.
Through Gary Newton
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