Harness
Reinette Returns to Her Best with Dominant South West Derby Win
Reinette was sensational throughout her two-year-old season, and on Saturday night at Bunbury, she proved she’s back to her brilliant best as a three-year-old, claiming the 2025 South West Derby in commanding fashion.
Starting from barrier two in the $11,000 feature, Reinette quickly took control of the race, finding the front early and dictating terms throughout. She cruised to victory with a winning mile rate of 1:58.8, a blistering 56.3 last half, and an impressive 9.3m winning margin — a performance that thrilled the Nafranec family and driver Trent Wheeler.
Part-owner Rick Nafranec was confident heading into the race, admitting they would have been disappointed if Reinette hadn't delivered.
"She has been a bit disappointing since her two-year-old career, but that's our fault — we changed a couple of things with her that we shouldn't have," Nafranec said.
Purchased for a modest $15,000 at the 2022 APG Yearling Sales, Reinette has since amassed over $244,000 in stakes earnings and more than $35,000 in Westbred bonuses — a dream return for any owner.
"She's a once-in-a-lifetime horse," Nafranec added.
"I think she's the daughter Dad never had."
With 24 starts to her name, Reinette boasts 9 wins and 6 placings. She was crowned the 2024 WA 2YO Filly of the Year after claiming the Group 3 Champagne Classic and the prestigious Group 1 2YO Fillies Westbred Classic in her debut season.
Looking ahead, Reinette is expected to line up at Gloucester Park this Friday night in the $21,000 3YO Fillies Pace over 1730m, before heading to Pinjarra for the $30,000 3YO Westbred Country Derby on Monday, November 10.
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