Harness Racing has witnessed a remarkable milestone as veteran driver Michael Bellman secured his 2000th career win, adding a glittering feather to his cap. The achievement, although somewhat understated, marks a significant moment for the 44-year-old who commenced his driving career back in the 1996-97 season. Partnering with She Will Wantano, trained by Rebecca East, Bellman clinched this impressive feat during the opening race at Mount Gambier on a memorable Saturday night.

Meanwhile, the spotlight also shines on the Charlton Harness Racing Club, under the guidance of president Andrea O’Gorman, for orchestrating yet another successful feature event. The club’s recent meeting not only showcased thrilling on-track action but also drew a vibrant crowd that lingered well into the evening. Charlton Harness Racing Club’s ability to engage the local community underscores its significance as one of the standout fixtures on the Victorian harness racing calendar.

Excitement brews as Group 1 racing returns to Melton after a hiatus since the thrilling Great Southern Star/Hunter Cup meeting in February. The upcoming Aldebaran Park Sumthingaboutmaori Trotting Mares Free For All promises elite competition, paying homage to a distinguished squaregaiter who triumphed in the 2004 Inter Dominion Trotting Championship Grand Final.

On another front, Victorian contenders gear up for the high-stakes Group 1 Tasmania Pacing Cup Final, headlined by Emma Stewart-trained Heza Punk Rocker and Oliver Dan, steered by James Herbertson and Allan McDonough respectively. The intense $150,000 showdown will also feature other Victorian entrants such as Hot Deal, Arggghhh, and Helluva, with Collective Works standing as the first emergency. Anticipation mounts as the race unfolds at 9.10 pm in Hobart.

In a bid to spice up the racing scene, a lucrative $25,000 First 4 jackpot has been injected into the pool for the upcoming Sumthingaboutmaori Trotting Mares Free For All at Melton. With the jackpot component in play, punters are encouraged to cast their nets wide, aiming for a surprise contender to clinch third or fourth place.

Amidst the racing fervor, the spotlight falls on My Uncle Stan as a horse worth tracking in future events. Despite a recent seventh-place finish, the gelding’s consistent strong performances, including a recent victory, hint at future triumphs under the astute guidance of trainer Rick Cashman.

In a thought-provoking turn, discussions arise around the viability of introducing a marathon-style race event in Victoria following the announcement of the extended 2025 Inter Dominion finals in Queensland. Drawing inspiration from European hurdle racing, the idea of a long-distance feature event or a series of staying races culminating in a grand finale garners intrigue, potentially adding a unique dimension to the racing calendar.

Harness Racing enthusiasts are left pondering the possibilities of a “Melton Marathon” or a similar endurance challenge, offering a refreshing twist to the traditional racing landscape. While logistical challenges may loom, the prospect of introducing such an event opens up a realm of exciting possibilities for the sport.