Fusion Mint wins Group 2 Maitland Gold Cup for Wesley McDonald
Fusion Mint delivered a sensational front-running performance to secure victory in the Group 2 Maitland Gold Cup (450m) on Friday night, holding off a late surge from Black Tsunami to claim the $40,000 first prize.
Trained and owned by Wesley McDonald, the son of Hooked On Scotch and Midnight Romba demonstrated class and determination to win in 24.81 seconds, solidifying his place among the sport’s rising stars.
Breaking sharply from Box 2, Fusion Mint immediately surged to the lead, clocking a blistering first sectional of 7.73 seconds.
Chief Lightning chased hard into second, with Black Tsunami settling midfield before making a bold late charge.
Despite Black Tsunami’s powerful finish, Fusion Mint held firm, crossing the line a neck in front with the top greyhound bookmakers pricing him as a $3.40 favourite, while Chief Lightning finished third, 1.25 lengths further back.
Maitland Gold Cup Final – Fusion Mint (24.81)
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Post-race, an emotional Wesley and Chelsea McDonald reflected on the significance of the victory for his family and their hardworking team.
“This means everything to me, Kylie, and the three kids,” McDonald said.
“They put a lot of work into it. It’s a shame Kylie couldn’t be here tonight, but I know she’ll be celebrating at home.”
“That’s what we get up for every morning, late nights, hours on end…”
For Fusion Mint, the victory marks his 11th win from 20 starts and continues a remarkable career trajectory. The 55% career win rate highlights his consistency and ability to perform under pressure.
With Fusion Mint now a Group 2 champion, McDonald’s focus shifts to Dubbo tomorrow night, where they will have four dogs running. Australian Racing Greyhound will provide all the racing tips for Dubbo tomorrow.
Maitland Gold Cup 2024 Results – Maitland
2024 Maitland Gold Cup ResultsMaitland 450m Group 2 $40,000 to-the-winner Friday, December 6, 2024
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| 1st |
2 Fusion Mint
T: Wesley McDonaldTime: 24.81Margin:
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| 2nd |
3 Black Tsunami
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| 3rd |
1 Chief Lightning
T: Jason MagriTime: 24.92Margin: 1.25 Lengths
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| 4th |
7 Tracker
T: Jason MackayTime: 25.04Margin: 3 Lengths
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| 5th |
6 You Never Lose
T: Michelle SultanaTime: 25.27Margin: 6.25 Lengths
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6th |
8 Kettle Head
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| 7th |
4 Angel Shirley
T: Peter LagogianeTime: 25.40Margin: 8 Lengths
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8th |
9 Reel ‘Em Bluey
T: Terry MillerTime: 25.45Margin: 8.75 Lengths
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