VICTORIAN horsewoman Emma Stewart continued her incredible association with South Australia's Sires' Stake scheme at Globe Derby Saturday night.
Officially-known as the Southern Cross Series, Stewart has won 12 of the 24 Finals for two-year-olds since 2015 - making her the futurity's most successful trainer!
Stewart's 12th victory came via Hilltop Blossom earlier this evening.
Driven by local reinsman Wayne Hill, Hilltop Blossom led throughout from the pole to account for Centrefold Star and Lardy Dah Lady.
"We've been fortunate to have enjoyed a lot of success in the Southern Cross over the years," Stewart said. "We always have a few eligible horses in the stable and make a point of setting them for those races.
"Hilltop Blossom did a great job, and all being well, she will be back for the three-year-old series next year."
On the subject of returning for the three-year-old series, Stewart prepared Brighton to successfully defend the title she captured last season.
Brighton was driven by Gaita Pullicino last year, with the reinswoman back in the cart this time around.
Working to the lead from barrier seven, the daughter of Downbytheseaside cruised to an eight-and-a-half metre win from Aloha Princess, with Ohso Kinky 21 metres away third.
Rating 1:56.3 over 2230 metres, Brighton provided Stewart with her eighth triumph in the three-year-old division.
Bred and owned by former Harness Racing SA Chief Executive and Chairman Mark Carey, Brighton took her record to four wins and a seconds from 12 starts for earnings of $56,602.
