Kelly hopes to break 145 losses on trot

Brian O'Connor trains Kelly Evander (right) south of Brighton, Dunedin. Photo / Otago Daily Times

In a sport dominated by super-reinsmen and wonder-horses, trotter Kelly Evander is something of an enigma with a losing streak longer than her face.

The 10-year-old with a club foot, who is inclined to get a little cranky at times, has gone to the races 145 times - and still hasn't won.

Her owner, Brian O'Connor, hopes to end that streak tonight by driving her to victory in the Brylin Boyz Trot at Forbury Park, Dunedin.

However, there is one other nagging problem: O'Connor, 74, has himself failed to win one race as a driver in 400 attempts.

It perhaps presents the best - or worst - chance at glory for punters, although no odds were available last night.

The bay mare's losing run has attracted much attention on the internet, with a fan club on Facebook (60 members at last count), and bloggers who offer her moral, albeit virtual, support.

So, would there be quite a celebration if they both ended their droughts at Forbury Park tonight?

"I'll tear the grandstand down," O'Connor said.

- OTAGO DAILY TIMES