Warren and Dubbo wins lead into a busy weekend
The Melissa Harrison Racing team will have their tails up leading into a big few days of racing at Narrandera on Saturday, Warren on Sunday, and Bathurst on Tuesday.
The in-form Forbes stable has turned out five winners from their past 14 runners, with the likes of Strassman, Erion, Pattera, King Cornelius and Kelilah getting the job done for owners and connections in recent weeks.
Last week, Harrison prepared winners at Warren and Dubbo.
King Cornelius had Clayton Gallagher in the saddle as he powered to a dominant victory in the 2400m Benchmark 58 Handicap at Warren on Monday, June 1.
It was the 6YO Invader gelding’s first start for the stable and a timely win for all involved, as he had not been in the winner’s circle since late 2024.
At Dubbo on Friday, June 5, Kelilah was strong to the line, winning the fillies and mares qualifier of the Winter Country Classic Benchmark 58 Handicap (1300m) for Winona Costin.
The 5YO Territories mare, who last won in March of 2024, has been a somewhat frustrating galloper for connections, so the win was well-deserved for all involved.
Kelilah is now a three-time winner and has qualified for the Winter Country Classic final at Dubbo on June 28.
Hoping to continue the success, Harrison may travel to Narrandera on Saturday, with Chebet and Pattera entered, although with rain about, and some awkward draws, that decision will be up in the air until tomorrow morning.
The team then heads to Warren on Sunday, with three chances.
Georgina McDonnell will partner Spunky Reward (gate 8) in the Maiden Handicap (1200m), while Clayton Gallagher will ride Street Parade (gate 4) in the Coonamble Cannonball (1000m) and Strassman (gate 9) in the Benchmark 66 Handicap (1600m).
Street Parade made a nice stable debut at Dubbo last week, running fourth in the 1000m Benchmark 82 Handicap and Strassman has been racing in great form for the stable, so the pair should be ready to fire.
Then at Bathurst, Harrison has Smokin’ Genie (gate 3) in, who will be ridden by Clayton Gallagher in the Maiden Plate (1200m).
The 3YO Satono Aladdin filly has been knocking on the door and will appreciate running in a smaller field at Bathurst.
Words: Jeff Hanson
Image: Racing Photography