Racing: Supreme Edition popular winner

There was no more popular winner at Alexandra Park yesterday than Supreme Edition.

The Christian Cullen-sired 4-year-old is part-owned by Auckland Trotting Club president Sid Holloway.

Supreme Edition registered a determined front running victory in the hands of leading junior driver Jay Abernethy scoring by a half-length over Spirit Of Dreams. A further 1 3/4 lengths away third was Beach Romance.

The victor showed his customary mobile gate speed to blast straight out of barrier one but was made to work hard in the early stages of the race to deal with the challenging Spirit Of Dreams.

Supreme Edition clinched the victory with brisk closing 800m and 400m sectional times of 57.8 and 28.8 seconds.

The hot favourite Mr Williams was never a realistic winning chance, settling back off the pace. He was forced three and four wide over the closing 600m when attempting to improve around the field.

The 2200m was cut out in 2.45.3 (mile rate 2.01).

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Alinghi was rewarded for some outstanding performances during the Auckland Cup Carnival when posting an easy, front-running victory in the hands of Jo Herbert.

The Presidential Ball-sired 3-year-old filly was one of the most consistent performers at the carnival but victory eluded her until the final day.

Alinghi blasted over the 1700-metres in 2.05.5 (mile rate 1.58.8) with closing 800 and 400 metres sectional times of 57.2 seconds and 29 seconds.

From the stable of Greg and Nina Hope, the filly has been a consistent performer scoring three wins and two minor placings from six starts.

Alinghi scored by a neck over the fast-closing Tosti Girl with a further 6 1/2 lengths back to Hunter Franco (third).

- HERALD ON SUNDAY