Ill'av a Bubbles pictured with her winning connections photo: Riccarton Park Racecourse
The group of Canterbury business women who race I’llav a Bubbles had reason to celebrate this week.
The seven-year-old mare backed up her second placing on the first day of the Grand National Racing Carnival with a win, in the Nautical Boat Insurance Grand National Amateur Championship (1800m) at Riccarton, on the second day.
“They’re a great group of owners including my sister Michelle so it was nice to get a win for them on the home track,” said trainer Andrew Cartson of the Pussy Galore Syndicate.
“They’re a fun group of local business women who jumped at the chance to race her because of her name.”
I’llav a Bubbles was ridden by leading Amateur rider Clinton Isdale, jumping from barrier one, the pair got off to a good start to lead throughout and hold on at the line over a fast finishing Ave Maria.
It was the third career win for the daughter of Sir Percy, who won her first two races in the Waikato when trained by Ryan Simpson. Since joining the Carston Racing team she has also placed on four occasions.
The win was the first this season for Carston who last season claimed the gavelhouse Newcomer to Training Award.
