The two Class A1 events yesterday, one of which a handicap race on the 2,660-metre distance, were the main attractions during the afternoon programme at Marsa. The other races on the card were run on 2,640m.

The handicap A1 race saw Julian Farrugia's Black Zack taking an immediate lead but, 1,000m from the post, this trotter was strongly challenged by Flash du Rib, driven by Anthony Galdes.

Both horses ran the last 150 metres neck and neck with Flash du Rib, in its second race in Malta and despite starting with a 20-metre handicap, pipping its rival to the post.

The Class A1 scratch race had quite an exciting finish as well.

While Brian Bagulay and Julian Farrugia, driving Newton Rozz and Ashley respectively, were closely watching each other's moves in the final metres, out flashed George Schembri's Ebahi des Brieres to surprise the then leading duo from the inside of the track and claim victory. Newton Rozz had to settle for second place and Ashley third.

In Class A, Cyrus Bonbeth, driven by Charles Degiorgio, overtook its rivals midway through the final straight to win the race.

The next meeting at Marsa is scheduled for Sunday afternoon.

Yesterday's winners

Race 1, Class D - Guy My (M. Seguna).
Race 2, Class C - Why Chivas (M. Ghigo).
Race 3, Class B - Bella Guard (J. Farrugia).
Race 4, Class D - Young Carre (M.A. Farrugia).
Race 5, Class A1 - Flash du Rib (A. Galdes).
Race 6, Class A - Cyrus Bonbeth (C. Degiorgio).
Race 7, Class A1 - Ebahi des Brieres (G. Schembri).
Race 8, Class B - Dino de Bonnefille (B. Briffa).
Race 9, Class C - Eges Ranido (C. Magro).