By MATT NICHOLLS
PUNTERS cleaned out the TABs of Armidale on Saturday as Brave Ali saluted at big odds in the wet at Doomben.
After a last-start flop in the Armidale Cup, loyal locals were the big winners as the Craig Martin-trained gelding paid $8 after leading all the way in the Open Handicap (2100m).
So much money was staked on Brave Ali that numerous TAB outlets in Armidale were unable to pay out winning customers with cash.
A renowned mudlark, Brave Ali relished the heavy conditions in Brisbane, romping to a three-and-a-half length victory.
The win also helped Tegan Harrison become the second female apprentice in Queensland history to outride her city claim.
Brave Ali is owned by a large contingent of Armidale people, including Armidale Jockey Club chairman Rod Watt, secretary Jim Dedes, St Kilda Hotel publican Harley Payne and Barbarians stalwarts Sam Piddington and Nick Dooner.
