Major Hot wins Group 1 for Whites at Albion Park

By Adam Hamilton

Racing's good karma delivered for Stacey and David White at Albion Park last night.

The Whites headed across from NZ to Brisbane a month ago full of hope and expectations of Group 1 glory with their top young trotter Bet N Win.

An untimely hoof abscess ruined his campaign after a first-up win, but around the same time they picked-up emerging Kiwi three-year-old Major Hot to train.

Last night Major Hot, courtesy of a sublime Adam Sanderson drive, overpowered Victorian star and favourite Bay Of Biscay to win the $150,000 Group 1 Ladbrokes Queensland Derby (2680m).

Managing owner Phil Kennard said the thrill was “right up there.”

It’s high praise given the stars and major races he and wife, Glenys, have been part of.

“This was a plan hatched a long time ago. We knew he wasn’t the best three-year-old in NZ, but not far off them and felt this racing would suit him,” he said,

“When the filly Nathan (Purdon) bought across with Major Hot had a hoof issue, we gave him the option to go back home, which I think he felt was a blessing in disguise with everything he had going on.

“We gave the horse to David and Stacey because they were here and we’ve got a relationship with them.

“It’s such a thrill for the big group of loyal owners we’ve raced so many horses with, including the Breckons for almost 20 years, but to share it with young and up-and-comers like David and Stacey takes it to another level.”

Stacey White fought back tears after the win.

“Just to be here and part of this amazing Carnival with any horse is such a huge thrill and now to win a Group 1 is … wow,” she said.

“After the disappointment with Bet N Win, to win this with a horse we’ve only had a few weeks is incredible.

“A big credit to Nathan (Purdon) for the job he’s done and to Adam (Sanderson) for such an incredible drive, but we’ve put our heart and soul into this horse since we got him.”

David White added: “Kennards have a share in Bet N Win and it was such a thrill when they asked us to take over this horse.

“They took a risk on us with this horse and to reward them tonight with this win is very pleasing.”

Major Hot overpowered a very brave Bay Of Biscay to win by a neck with another 24m away to third placegetter, Minos, who led.

They went a slick 1min55.4sec mile rate for the long 2680m trip.