Harness
Waverider Makes Waves in Golden Nugget Glory
Gloucester Park was buzzing on Friday night as WA-bred star Waverider etched his name into the history books, storming home to win the $200,000 Group 1 Retravision Golden Nugget (2536m), following in the footsteps of his former stablemate Shockwave, who claimed the same race in 2019.
Trainer Ryan Bell revealed the triumph was no accident. It was the result of meticulous planning and a proven formula.
"I had a plan for him," Bell said. "I did everything exactly the same as I did when we won the Nugget with Shockwave — every piece of work was identical. I went back to my diaries, replicated the times, the program, how we worked him and drove him in the lead-up races. And it paid off."
Bell's strategy was simple: patience and precision. "We just cuddled him and made sure he hit the line. Racing against the big boys earlier this year toughened him up. Running in the Nullarbor and Fremantle Cup strengthened him and turned him into the horse he was tonight."
Driven by Jack Callaghan, Waverider ($12.20) settled midfield before unleashing a powerful four-wide surge, grabbing the lead inside the final 50 metres and holding off Justcallmemiki ($6.50) by a half-head. The victory ended a 12-start drought and pushed his earnings beyond $410,000, a testament to Bell's faith and the horse's resilience.
"I know Waverider just fell in, but he copped a check down the back straight and had to switch course, so it was a pretty good run," Bell said. "Now we'll be looking forward to the WA Pacing Cup."
For Callaghan, the win marked his eighth and most prestigious Group 1 success. "It's a very special thrill," the 24-year-old declared.
Other Highlights from a Stellar Night
Penny Black staked her claim for the WA Pacing Cup with a brilliant win in the Group 2 Norms Daughter Classic, proving mares can mix it with the best.
Magnificent Storm cruised to an effortless Free-For-All victory, reaffirming his status as the Cup favourite with a blistering final quarter.
My Copy stepped out of his famous sibling's shadow, leading all the way to score in the Barbagallo Volvo Pace.
Nutbush Girl extended her winning streak to five, continuing trainer Shane Tognolini's golden run with ex-Eastern States mares.
What's Next?
The stage is set for a blockbuster WA Pacing Cup on December 12, with Waverider, Magnificent Storm, and Penny Black all looming as major players. If Friday night was any indication, the summer carnival promises fireworks.
Check out the latest South African News