GIPPSLAND trotter Ronerail turned in an outstanding run for second in the South Australian Trotters Derby last Saturday night.
The Michael Hughestrained threeyearold was beaten by a head by fellow Victorian No Early Spark, but the performance of Ronerail was excellent, one of the best by a Gippsland horse anywhere in recent years.
Caught deep in the early part from an awkward barrier draw, driver Geoff Walker had to take Ronerail back to the tail of the field, giving the leaders a tidy start until the 1000metre mark.
From there, Ronerail ran into the race strongly. The early effort told however, the gallant youngster trying his hardest right to the line.
Although beaten, the young horse was far from disgraced and the bigger home tracks for the Victorian Derby series next month will suit Ronerail better.
Hot Trottin’ Rebel gave Hughes consolation with a win later in the night, young driver Glenn Hunter having his first Adelaide success.