It took 64 starts, but Tilthesunsets NZ (Majestic son) finally found harness racing’s winner’s circle and for good measure he gained a 16-yard winning margin.
On Monday in Pinjarra, the six-year-old trotter broke through for his first career win, delivering a well-deserved win for trainer Nigel Johns, driver Chris Lewis and former owner Paul Demicoli.
With 54 of his 64 starts in Western Australia, Tilthesunsets NZ arrived from New Zealand in early 2024 with more than just a first tag: he came with running problems and a lack of confidence. Having ridden exclusively on grass tracks at home, the gelding had never been tested at high speed and it soon became apparent that he was struggling under the pressure, often hitting his elbows.
“He came with walking problems,” explains stable foreman Deb Woodley.
“He controlled the sound, but his confidence was low. Racing on grass meant he had never set fast times, and once he did that here, hitting the elbow became a real problem.”
Johns worked tirelessly to solve the problem and gradually built up the horse’s confidence. But in late 2024, Johns faced health issues that forced him to slow down, including moving away from the corrective footwear that had been key to Tilthesunsets NZ’s progress.
TILTHESUNSETS NZ REPEAT
Despite the setback, the team persevered. And on Monday their patience was rewarded.
In the opening event, a standing start trot over 2116 metres, Tilthesunsets NZ started safely from the front line and put three back on the pins.
With 700 meters to go, Lewis made his move, and in the home straight the gelding rose into the lead, ultimately losing his maiden status.
It may have taken 64 starts, but Tilthesunsets NZ proved that with patience, perseverance and a little courage, anything is possible. The victory was a sweet reward for Johns, Woodley and Demicoli, whose faith in the horse never wavered.
For full race results, click here.
Through Ashleigh Paikos for RWA
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