By LIAM TWOMEY
THE Star News Group Handicap finished in a thrilling dead heat between Gotta Dream and Lissom at the Werribee Racing Club’s Australia Day meeting on Sunday.
Both horses forced their way to the front when the gates opened and Lissom raced up to sit in second place behind Lightly, while Gotta Dream settled in fourth.
Those positions remained consistent for the majority of the race until both Lissom and Gotta Dream made their moves in the last 200 metres, to force a three-way photo with Lightly.
Nothing could separate the fast finishing pair, and they pipped Lightly which was awarded third.
Gotta Dream, ridden by James Winks paid $5 and Lissom, ridden by John Kissick, paid $8.40.
Pre-race favourite Vandalised struggled throughout the race and could only manage a fourth placed finish.
Werribee Racing Club general manager Ross Kendell said the meeting was a huge success on and off the track.
“We had some really good race fields and a few big syndicates got up today so we had a lot of happy owners,” he said.
“It is good when a syndicate wins a race because it just creates a contagious feeling throughout the crowd. You get a lot of people who are very happy all at once.
“We had a really sizeable crowd. We had a number of bucks parties and celebrations and it was a great feeling on course.
“In all respects, a lot of people were saying that it was one of the busiest days we have had for a long time.”
Werribee’s next meeting will take place on Tuesday 26 February while the club will also host transferred trials from Cranbourne on Friday 4 February.
Above: Lissom is greeted by happy connections in the post-race presentation area. 93019_20 Picture: EMILY LANE
Below: There was no shortage of fun on-course, with punters getting into the Australia day spirit. 93019_03 Picture: EMILY LANE
