Class Prevails in Southland Trotting Oaks

Bruce Stewart Journalist

Hidden Talent’s rise continued today, as she proved not to be a one trick trotter but an emerging superstar.

In her three previous starts she came off the pace to run over the top of her opposition, but today was different.

Hidden Talent leads with a lap to run

After the mobile pulled away from a wide draw, trainer driver Nathan Williamson settled the Bacardi Lindy filly wide and out of trouble. Safely round the first bend he pushed the go button and in a flash, she was up challenging for the front. The second favourite Ti Amo Belle had just settled in front and when Hidden Talent came up to challenge, the Jack Harrington trotter rolled into a gallop, leaving Hidden Talent in front.

“She’s led at the trials, and I knew she could run off the front,” Williamson said.

Inside the last 800 metres Mixed Faith and Brad Williamson started to put the pressure on Hidden Talent.

“It was good when Brad came up because I was worried she would get lazy in front.”

Far from it, as Hidden Talent balanced up for the run home and the plugs came out she showed the class we all know she has.

At the finish

Back to the birdcage

Winning connections

“She was trotting good and was even comfortable on the smaller track.”

The winning margin was three and three quarter lengths from Mixed Faith with Miss Yo running home well for third.

“She just keeps getting better. She’ll be far better when she matures a bit more.”

The New Zealand Trotting Oaks on the 25^{th of} November is very much on the radar for this talented filly.

“We’ll back off a little bit. I’m not sure whether we give her another race or just trial her in between. We’ll see.”

Hidden Talent is raced by the Griffin Syndicate who continue their great relationship with the Williamson family.