Racing: Hometown girl scores

Course specialist Casabella Lane produced a dazzling sprint to score an effortless victory in the $100,000 (Group Two) Japan-New Zealand Trophy at Tauranga yesterday.

The 5-year-old daughter of Volksraad was patiently ridden by apprentice jockey Jason Collett, staying out of the early speed war involving front running warrior Sir Slick.

Casabella Lane easily reeled in the leaders with 200m remaining easing down at the finish to defeat Arlington by 2 lengths. A further head away third was the fast closing favourite Vonusti.

Vonusti caught the eye with a solid finishing burst down the outer of the track but was left flat footed when the winner unleashed a blistering sprint with 200m remaining.

Local trainer Jim Pender could not have timed the mare's preparation more perfectly, the Group Two victory adding to her future broodmare value.

A last-start second placing at Ellerslie had Casabella Lane primed for a top performance in the 1600m event.

With five wins from nine starts on the right-handed Tauranga track, Casabella Lane certainly has a strong following from local punters.

Sir Slick who was attacked throughout lost few admirers when he hung on to finish fifth.

It was an outstanding performance considering all those runners that raced forward on the speed dropped out quickly.

MR TIPSY made a welcome return to winning form in the $25,000 Open Handicap.

The 5-year-old son of Montjeu has certainly tested the patience of Cambridge trainers Murray and Bjorn Baker this season after a disappointing spring campaign including a trip to Melbourne. However, a brief break from racing and two shorter sprint races had the gelding primed for a bold performance yesterday.

Jockey Michael Coleman got the well-supported runner home in a punishing finish to score by a head over Nazabeel. A further length away in third position was Gallant.

Yesterday's distance of 2100m seems to an ideal trip for the 5-year-old who is unbeaten from three attempts.

Mr Tipsy has been a consistent performer scoring seven wins and six minor placings from 20 starts.

This latest victory may be a good indication that he may be returning to the type of form that warranted a trip to contest the Caulfield Cup.