Darren Elder.
Maitland trainer Darren Elder believes competing at Tabcorp Park Menangle taught Shannonsablast how to race but admits it has been a little bit frustrating chasing a victory on the 1400 metre circuit. The five year old gelding broke through for his first win on the track at his 24th attempt on Saturday night.
"It was a bit of a relief because he kept on racing well but just couldn't break through for that first win on the track," said Elder.
"I don't think there is any reason that he can't win a couple more there now that he has broken through. He follows speed so well and he relaxes even when he has to burn early, I nominated him for this week but there wasn't a race for him but I'm not too concerned by that and we will be back the following week."
Shannonsablast started his career at Bathurst and was sent to Elder after having seven runs.
"Peter Bullock sent him to me and said I think he will make a nice Newcastle horse and my initial thought when he first arrived was that he was going to win a race or two but he just kept getting better and better."
"He was a roughie at his first run for me and I was really impressed with how he hit the line to finish second. He ended up running six seconds in a row for me before he finally won a race."
Elder is not taking all the credit for the performance for Shannonsablast and was quick to give his family plenty of credit for the victory.
"I only drive him, my wife and son do all of the work with him at home so it was a good result to see him win for them as well."
"My son Brad is a junior driver. He is still at school but really enjoys working the horses and spending time with them so it was a good reward for a lot of his hard work behind the scenes."
