Baynes qualifies Ebonezy for Oaks final

Bruce Stewart Journalist

After an average fifth at her last start, Ebonezy (Tall Dark Stranger) bounced back to winning form to win the fourth heat of the Macca Lodge/Nevele R Stud Southern Oaks at Winton yesterday.

“I was disappointed with her last week. There were just a few gear issues. She was getting on one line (rein) round the bends. We changed a bit of gear around and some shoeing. This week she’s been a lot better,” trainer Des Baynes said.

Driver Blair Orange ensured Ebonezy’s mind was on the job with a brisk pre-race warm up.

Once they were off, from the 1609 metre dispatch Orange pushed his filly forward and waited for The Queens Gambit to roll forward before taking the trail.

“I was glad to see she got out of the gate and I knew Carter’s one (The Queens Gambit) was the one to beat.”

Turning in, Ebonezy came up the passing lane and ran down The Queens Gambit to win by a neck.

Ebonezy was bred by Central Southland harness racing stalwart Garnie Cowie and is out of his good mare Holmezy which won seven races for Hamish Hunter.

“He’s the only owner I’ve got and he’s the best one (laughter).”