Popular sprinter Ross The Boss withstood intense pressure to claim the Western District Derby at Ballarat last night.
After settling third shortly after box rise, his natural running line gave him the clear air he needed while also allowing him to avoid congestion inside. Race favourite Sparring found trouble but was unscathed.
Brother Doom made a strong late charge, but The Boss held on. It marked his first win since Phoenix night and the first black‑type success of his career.
A couple of races prior the Lil Dickie Oaks delivered a mammoth performance from Above Them All. She was outmuscled early by favourite Carry On Maci and copped interference that cost her valuable ground, yet still got off the canvas late to win narrowly. It was a race worth watching and a sprinter worth following.
In other races, dominant favourite I’m Fabulous claimed the Mandy ‘Mumma’ Shaw Memorial, while the wide‑running House Of Sins took out the Vic Bred Maiden Final.
