As a prelude to what’s coming, the $500,000 Reasons To Join The VHRC by 28 February Pace over 2240 metres at Melton on Saturday February 18 saw 8Y0 ex-Kiwi American Ideal-Slangevar gelding Triple Eight return to the winners list in a mile rate of 1-55.4. Trapped three wide from gate six as Cant Top This led from gate three, reinsman Greg Sugars didn’t hesitate to send Triple Eight forward to park in the open before receiving cover from the Shepparton Gold Cup victor Cranbourne. Angling wide on the final bend, Triple Eight ran home strongly to record a 2.9 metre margin over Bulletproof Boy out wide from mid-field, with Rick Reilly third along the sprint lane off the back of the weakening leader a half head away.

To be eligible to win a $1500 VHRC Owners Bonus across 26 meetings in 2023, owners MUST pay the $250 membership fee for their horse no later than  28 February. The first full VHRC Super Bonus Meeting in 2023 will be conducted at Boort on Sunday 5 March. For all details go to the VHRC web page at www.vhrc.org.au or call the Club on 0408 570 197.