Winton plumber untaps a young star

Bruce Stewart Journalist

Winton plumber and committee member of the Winton Harness Racing Club Marty Fairburn openly admits he hasn’t had a nice horse for a while but judging by the way Miki’s Deal (Always B Miki) won today that could be about to change.

The two year old filly which he bred out of his four win Bettor’s Delight mare Delightful Deal, dented a few reputations when she easily won the Group Two $70,000 Entain Two Year Old Fillies Southern Classic at Winton today.

Her chances were aided when hot favourite Secret Wish galloped as the field rolled toward the mile start point, missing the start by eight lengths.

“We were quietly confident after her trial last week. It was awesome. She put a rough step in (at the trial) but her shoes were done. We thought if she got the right run she could get over the top of them because she’s got a great turn of foot,” trainer Brett Gray said.   

Driver Matty Williamson settled Miki’s Deal four back on the inside with the more favoured stablemate Havtimewillfly setting the pace. When Queen Lizzy came off the inside to sit parked, Williamson got Miki’s Deal on her back. Just before turning in, he brought his filly three wide and she let down nicely to win by two and a quarter lengths from Ideal Crown. Secret Wish made up stacks of ground to finish third.

Miki’s Deal winning at Winton (Bruce Stewart Photo)

After the run Gray was unsure about where he’ll take Miki’s Deal next. But he’s considering starting her in the $100,000 Group One Diamond Creek Farm Two Year Old Classic against the male pacers.

“I really don’t like racing outside of their sex but the girls are going a bit quicker than the boys at the moment. It’s a big call. I’ll have to sleep on it and think about it.”

Gray says Miki’s Deal has been a dream to get to the races.

“(She’s) unassuming and never used to work that flash. But when you take her off the place she just gets better and better.”

The winning time was 1-55.5.