Group 2 glory for Late Night News in Summer Distance Plate
Late Night News showcased his staying prowess with a dominant performance in the Group 2 Summer Distance Plate at Wentworth Park on Thursday night.
Trained by Mary Hughes, the blue brindle stayer delivered a faultless run, claiming victory in 41.60 seconds over 720 metres and securing the $40,000 winner’s purse.
Breaking from box five, the $3.50 bookmaker favourite Late Night News quickly settled into a stalking position behind early leader Canya Vivi.
The race took an unexpected turn as Canya Amy, who was in contention early, faltered exiting the first bend.
This opened the door for Late Night News to pounce, and the rising star didn’t look back.
With a powerful finish, he surged away to defeat King Tide by six and a half lengths, with Bandit Daryl finishing third.
Wentworth Park Summer Distance Plate Replay – Late Night News (41.60)
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Trainer Mary Hughes couldn’t hide her excitement post-race, stating, “Can you believe it? You’re a Group 2 winner. It’s unbelievable. I just thought, ‘please jump,’ and he did. It makes a world of difference, doesn’t it?”
Reflecting on the race, Hughes added, “I wanted to see him in second or third coming around the first turn because I know what a big finish he’s got on him. He kind of listened to his mummy for a change.”
When asked about her rising star’s potential, Hughes was emphatic: “From a young age, I could see star potential there. You’re always hoping for it, but I just thought, ‘If he can’t run, I’m a monkey’s uncle.’”
The win marked a new personal best for Late Night News, and Hughes is already contemplating future challenges.
“You start dreaming now about maybe where this dog could take you,” she admitted, despite confessing a dislike for long road trips. “I’m going to have to make some, aren’t I?”
This victory underscores Late Night News’ emergence as a top-tier stayer, with nine wins from 18 starts and prize money surpassing $85,000.
With his blend of speed and strength, he is well-positioned to make a significant impact on the staying scene in 2025.
Summer Distance Plate 2025 Results – Wentworth Park
2025 Summer Distance Plate Final ResultsWentworth Park 7200m Group 2 $40,000 to-the-winner Saturday, January 18, 2025
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| 1st |
5 Late Night News
T: Mary HughesTime: 41.60Margin:
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| 2nd |
8 King Tide
T: Jodie LordTime: 42.06Margin: 6.50 Lengths
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| 3rd |
6 Bandit Daryl
T: Arthur LangmanTime: 42.31Margin: 10.00 Lengths
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| 4th |
1 Canya Vivi
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| 5th |
4 Law Book
T: Jodie LordTime: 42.54Margin: 13.25 Lengths
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6th |
2 Sin Rap Explode
T: Shaun ParnisTime: 42.69Margin: 15.25 Lengths
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| BD |
3 Canya Amy
T: Matthew LaniganTime:Margin: Lengths
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| SCR |
7 I’m Sally
T: Rebecca EdenboroughTime:Margin: Lengths
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