One of the most memorable major trotting races of the modern day era was hosted by Adelaide’s Globe Derby Park – the 1997 Inter Dominion Grand Final. The handicapper got it spot on with only inches between the first four horses across the line.

The public in the betting ring had strongly supported five fancies, and the enthralling tactics used by our best drivers kept the large crowd on their toes from start to finish. That was the race won by Pride Of Petite USA (30m) from Wagon Apollo (40m) and Knight Pistol (fr).

Back-marks have never prevented the finest from winning this race. That great Victorian mare Carlotta’s Pride won it in 1959 from 96 yards around the pint-sized Wayville track.

The following year it was another Victorian, Don’t Enquire, successful off 84 yards. Others in more recent years to win from 50 and more yards behind when the depth of opposition was nothing flash, included Derby Royale, Lyn’s Choice NZ, Light Buffy NZ and National Interest. When the handicapper placed La Coocaracha off 40 metres, it was generally accepted this mark was generous indeed, especially considering the make-up of the field. Punters and rivals alike thought this would prove a ‘walk in the park’ for our latest trotting star.

The local South Australian trotters, along with the Victorians Son Of Flair and Timmo NZ, were placed off the front.

ust three squaregaiters were given handicaps; the Victorians Waikare Gold (10m), Djerriwarrh (30m) and La Coocaracha (40m). It was not surprising the highly promising five-year-old mare from the Andy Gath stables was sent out an extremely short-priced favourite.

This had just as much to do with her reliability as it did for her trotting prowess.