Sensational Victory for Sunshine Boy in Fraser Preferred Class Sets the Tone for an Exciting Season Debut

Sunshine Boy marked his triumphant return to the harness racing season at Fraser Downs on Friday night, February 9.

Trainer Jim Marino, known for his expertise, guided the talented gelding to victory in the prestigious Preferred class. Under the skilled reins of driver Scott Knight, Sunshine Boy showcased his prowess by crossing the finish line in a remarkable time of 1:53.2. The victory in the $10,000 featured finale delighted Marino and his esteemed partners, J J J Stables and Paul Sanders.

Sunshine Boy, an accomplished nine-time winner at the fall Fraser meet, justified his favouritism as the 4-5 betting choice in his comeback race. Despite a challenging outside post, the six-year-old Sunshine Beach gelding showcased his determination by overtaking his rivals after a brisk first half in :55.3. Asserting his dominance, Sunshine Boy extended his lead by two lengths down the backstretch, clocking three-quarters in 1:24. In a thrilling finish, he maintained his advantage over the runner-up, Itll Be Fine, with Mach Steady securing a respectable third-place finish, ahead of Pureform Mr Toffee, as confirmed by the photo finish.

Sunshine Boy's victorious return delighted his enthusiastic backers, as he rewarded them with a payout of $3.90 at the betting windows. With this win, Sunshine Boy has amassed an impressive record of 24 career victories, earning him more than a quarter of a million dollars.

Marino's training prowess was on full display during the seven-race card, as he achieved a magnificent training triple. In addition to Sunshine Boy's triumph, Marino celebrated back-to-back victories in races two and three. Shales Storm crossed the finish line first in a thrilling nose decision, with John Abbott skillfully guiding the horse. Following this exhilarating win, Marino's stablemate, Major Winker, also claimed the winner's circle, with Knight expertly piloting the talented horse.