Royal Performer Upsets Herbie Dyke Script

Well-travelled galloper Royal Performer spoilt the party for the many supporters of deep odds-on race favourite Melody Belle when he caused an upset by racing away with Saturday’s Gr1 Herbie Dyke Stakes (2000m) at Te Rapa, reports racingnews.co.nz. The large on-course crowd were on hand to witness Melody Belle attempt to break the record of thirteen career Group 1 wins that she currently holds with mighty mare Sunline, however a rocky run in the home straight put paid to her winning chances. Royal Performer dug deep to hold a two-length margin from courageous The Chosen One, who was fresh-up, at the winning post, with 2019 winner On The Rocks snatching third off Beauden in the final stride. Trained and owned by Bob Vance and his wife Jenny, the 8YO gelding has fashioned a useful record since he made his way to New Zealand after winning three times in Europe and twice more in Hong Kong. After kicking off his New Zealand career in October 2020, Royal Performer has now won four times from just seven local starts and boasts overall career earnings of $945,000. Meanwhile, trainer Jamie Richards later reported that Melody Belle had pulled up well after getting an interrupted run throughout, although she would have further examinations taken over the next few days.