First Protostar runner unveiled

Undefeated pacer Fate Awaits has been confirmed as the first runner in the nation’s most lucrative two-year-old harness race.

Earlier today, connections of Fate Awaits confirmed his spot in the inaugural $500,000 Ladbrokes Protostar, having agreed to run in one of the naming rights partner’s slots. 

In his only three starts, the colt could not have been more impressive, with a near 20-metre win on debut backed up only days later with a second demolition job on March 23.

His most recent win earlier this week once again raised the bar, breaking an 11-year-old class record on his way to qualifying for the $250,000 Nutrien 2YO Equine Classic Final at Melton on April 20.

Trained and driven by Grant Dixon, Fate Awaits sports the famous black and white chequered silks for Kevin and Kay Seymour, famously worn by Leap To Fame and Colt Thirty One.

Ladbrokes CEO Dean Shannon said he is pleased to be able start generating interest in the race by announcing Fate Awaits as one of the organisation’s two runners.   

“The Ladbrokes Protostar is a race that’s got everyone talking and has really filled a void in the calendar, as well as adding another huge highlight to the Queensland Constellations,” Mr Shannon said.

“It’s a thrill to team up with Kevin and Kay Seymour, along with Grant Dixon and their impressive youngster Fate Awaits.

“We had a wonderful relationship with the same group around our Leap To Fame promotion during last December’s Inter Dominion at Albion Park and hope Fate Awaits can give us a similar ride in the Protostar.”

Run exclusively for two-year-olds, the Ladbrokes Protostar will be held at Albion Park over 1660 metres as part of the Queensland Constellations’ final night on Saturday, July 27.

The evening will also play host to the state’s Grand Circuit event – the Ladbrokes Blacks A Fake – alongside three further Group 1 features – the Queensland Derby, Queensland Oaks, and Queensland Trotters Cup.

The Protostar will utilise the highly successful slot race concept and take its place as Queensland’s richest annual harness race.

The first Protostar will be restricted to 10 starters with eight open slots still available, alongside one further Ladbrokes slot.

Click here for more information on the Queensland Constellations.