LIFE in South Australia continues to agree with Van Mara.
Purchased from a claimer at Tabcorp Park Melton by Mount Gambier horseman Steven Fennell in April, Van Mara has had nine starts since changing stables for a debut second and eight wins – including Globe Derby last night.
Driven by leading concession driver Samantha Pascoe, Van Mara outstayed his rivals in 1:57.2 over 2230 metres.
Maharajah and Ellmers Hoofing It filled the placings.
“I figured he would be perfect over here,” Fennell said. “That he’d be more than competitive in the free-for-alls at Globe Derby each week.
“He has already worked out better than I hoped…he couldn’t be doing a better job for us.”
Although there is a suitable race at the same venue next week, Fennell has no plans of travelling back to Globe Derby with the son of Lis Mara.
“At this stage I’ll give him a few easy days and head back to Globe Derby in a couple of weeks,”: Fennell said.
“There is a race there for him next week, but I’m not going anywhere…I’ll be staying at home to watch the Grand Final!”
- PAUL COURTS
- Photo Walter Bulyga
