Wallrodt makes perfect start to training career as Singa Doll salutes

Albany’s Rebecca Wallrodt made the perfect start to her new career as a horse trainer after maiden galloper Singa Doll won a thrilling finish to the Collier Tax & Accounting Maiden (1100m) at Mt Barker Turf Club on Sunday afternoon.

Wallrodt has been involved in racing for many years, assisting at the stables of Peter Western before gaining her licence to train eight weeks ago.

She joined the rare group of trainers to notch a winner with their first-ever runner after astute jockey Troy Turner fired Singa Doll home late in the home straight to edge out Waychinicup by a short head on the line.

Wallrodt, who has four horses in work altogether, including classy sprinter Zipabout, was overcome with joy as her mare blasted home to victory.

“It was amazing, just unbelievable really,” she said.

“We know she has ability but she’s had some issues and we didn’t think she’d win because she hasn’t had a trial. I think she’ll definitely improve on that and even get over a bit more ground.”

Wallrodt was grateful to those who have supported her transition to a trainer.

“I just thought it was time (to be a trainer),” she said.

“I was Wesso’s apprentice for 15 years and just wanted to go out and have a go.

“Thanks especially to Geoff Bunce the owner, who has been massive support for me.”

Meanwhile promising five-year-old Cosmah Domination remains unbeaten second-up after scorching home from 12th on the turn to claim the Michelle Parsons Memorial Handicap (1300m) by ½ a length over In The Loop.

In The Loop, trained by Steve Wolfe and ridden by Shelby Colgate lodged a protest for alleged interference in the concluding stages but it was dismissed.

Maria Hunter, trainer of Cosmah Domination, was bullish about the Oratorio mare’s campaign.

“I think she has come back better,” she said.

“She’s more professional and we thought she’d get better each time, we’ve always had a lot of time for her.

“She hasn’t had that let down in her last few starts, but was much better suited to the 1300m.”

Earlier in the day, talented sprinter Potent Secret carried 61.5kg to win the Bruce Williamson Memorial Handicap (1100m) while Portonian made it two wins in as many Mt Barker meetings for the Mark Bairstow stable after taking out the Plantagenet Concrete Handicap (1300m).