Driven in supremely confident style by Pete McMullen, the caretaker was able to secure a one-out, one-back course, allowing Turn It Up to race into a clear lead from Aroda.
But with just under a lap to go, McMullen left the course and raced past Turn It Up with great ease. His third quarter ran in 27.3 seconds. The Janitor showed off his awesome speed. Birkikara, who was buried three back on the rails, started to get an inside run to make things interesting, but The Janitor kept him at just over three meters with Turn It Up in third.
Trainer Chantal Turpin has always had great appreciation for The Janitor and now he gets the chance to prove himself in the big room. While there is no suggestion that The Janitor is on the level of local hero Leap To Fame, he is still only four years old and a possible Miracle Mile invite for next season may not be out of the question.
In the meantime, it looks like a suitable upcoming event for him would be the $75,000 Group 2 Garrards Sunshine Sprint at Albion Park on November 29.
THE JANITOR NOVEMBER 15 REPEAT
The victory capped a memorable week for the Chantal Turpin – Pete McMullen team after their wonder trotter Gus landed the big trotting double at Addington, leaving behind the very best of New Zealand and Australian trotting on offer.
Now, it looks like The Janitor is set to make his mark at the top of the pacers in the near future.
Caretaker’s mother, Meka Lass, has had a remarkable career as a broodmare as her five previous offspring have all won races including She’s Got Issues, Sally Maclellane, Reciprocity (1.53), Demeter (30 wins and 1.52) and Beach Start.
Following The Janitor’s victory, heavy rain and deteriorating weather conditions all resulted in the remaining six events, including the Ladbrokes final, being abandoned.
By Tony Milanese for Harnesslink
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