Black Top Fits Perfectly For Snug

LEADING Queensland trainer Darren Russell will have a three-pronged attack on the heats of the Black Top at The Gardens this week spearheaded by Thursday night's Albion Park Best 8 winner, ever-reliable Snug.

Russell will also take Go Lassie Go and Fab Fit to The Gardens for the Black Top.

Snug (Fabregas-Befitting) was the first of a winning double for Russell who landed Yeah Okay (My Bro Fabio-Dulcie Dee) a winner in a 520m 5th Grade late in the night.

It was timely because his car had broken down on his way to Albion Park.

“Lucky for me Tom Tzouvelis was not far behind me on the highway and he was able to pick up the dogs and kennel them for me,” said Darren. “I've done a motor in the car but I can't complain, it's already done 500,000 kilometres.”

Snug came from behind to score by almost four lengths over Bubble Guppy and Neeky's Way in 29.98. It was her 16th win in 51 starts and she has now earned $71,000.

“I have no qualms about taking her to the Black Top,” said Russell.

“She beat Miss Splendamiro and Not Available on their merits at Albion Park at her previous start.”

That was late in July. Russell took his team to The Gardens to trial a week ago and is happy his car did not decide to blow the motor while on that trip south.
Of Yeah Okay he says the dog has “a Group 1 motor, but maiden class box manners”.

“He is an awesome dog with a sensational middle split, but he will not come out of the boxes,” he said.

“He's in a final next week and will go there. He has the ability to take on Group class but you can't win those races giving away any start at all.”

Yeah Okay, a member of a fabulous litter that includes star Victorian galloper Uno Fabio and recent Match Race winner Mister Belushi, has won six and been placed 11 times in 21 starts.

He was a Vince Curry Maiden finalist early in the year but was tragically knocked down in the back straight when looming up to challenge.