Sarah O'Reilly with two strong chances at Addington today

By Mike Love 

Sarah O’Reilly has two drives at Addington’s meeting today with both runners paying under $2.00. 

Firstly today, in Race 5, the Winky Cross Dulcet Tones Pace (5.04pm) over 2000m, O’Reilly links up with Bettabe Lou ($1.60FF), trained by her father Gerard.

The three-year-old Sweet Lou filly has had two starts so far in her career, and was narrowly beaten on both of those occasions. 

“She is going really good races. Last time out she had to do it the tough way and just got beaten up the lane by quite a nice horse. We were really pleased with her run,” said O’Reilly. 

Starting from barrier three today, Bettabe Lou looks set to slot in handy and be tough to roll. 

Trainer, Gerard O’Reilly, also lines up debutant Getaway Car ($18.00FF) in the same event, which he himself will drive. Sarah, suggests it will be a learning curve for the three-year-old daughter of Always B Miki. 

“We’ve been pleasantly surprised with how she’s come along. She’s done everything right to get to where she is, so it's exciting for the owners that have bought her. She didn’t behave too well at the trials and the plan was to put her in the mobile but she didn’t meet the conditions. So we just want her to do things right.” said Sarah O’Reilly. 

O’Reilly then takes the drive on the Carl and Jeremy Markham trained runner My Skatjie ($1.85FF) in Race 6, the Braxton Farriers Handicap Pace (5.29pm) over 2600m, starting off 10es.

The six-year-old Sweet Lou gelding has been racing competitively in Friday night company, and the slight drop back in grade gives O’Reilly confidence that they can salute. 

“He’s been going well. It will suit him. He goes away well, even though he made a mistake last time, but it wasn’t really his fault.” 

Other chances in the event include Adamas ($7.00FF), who is first up for trainer/driver Robbie Holmes after beginning his career with a win and two placings down south with Nathan Williamson. The five-year-old Betting Line gelding will be back at the races for the first time in over a year since winning at a Cromwell meeting back in February of 2025. Country Gold ($6.00FF) and Sans Repos ($15.00FF) should also be considered top-four chances. 

Race one gets underway this afternoon at 3.07pm.

Note: The FF (Final Field) odds can fluctuate, so check at tab.co.nz for the latest information.