SA TROTS - Massive statement made by Brighton in Southern Cross Heats

LOCALLY-OWNED youngster Brighton made a massive statement at Globe Derby last Saturday night.

Breaking her maiden at her sixth start, Brighton captured an 1800-metre Southern Cross heat in a slick 1:54.4.

Another way to highlight Brighton's performance is noting her time is 6.6 seconds faster than the opening fillies' heat winner, Jawsofgoodtime.

Bred and owned by former Harness Racing SA chairman Mark Carey, the daughter of Downbytheseaside was also 1.8 and 4.2 seconds quicker than the colts' and geldings' winners!

Driven by local reinswoman Gaita Pullicino, Brighton was caught three-wide from barrier five before working forward to find the front as early leader, Machete Roulette, was eased to take at trail.

Striding clear of the pack during the latter stages, the two-year-old was untouched to blitz her rivals by scoring by 25 metres Machete Roulette.

Jades Hope was six-and-a-half metres third.

"She is a nice filly in her own right, but has faced some tough opposition via the Vicbred and Breeders' Crown series," trainer Emma Stewart said.

"This was a drop in class compared to those races, so we were confident she'd get her first win on the board.

"It was a terrific run which will put her in good stead ahead of the Final."

Pullicino and Stewart then completed a double when No Notthebuttons began his title defence in perfect fashion.

Winner of last season's Two-Year-Old Final, No Notthebuttons secured his heat with ease in 1:56.9 over 2230 metres - 1.9 seconds quicker than Hezrockinroyalty in the first qualifier.

Predominantly owned by SA interests, No Notthebuttons scored from Tonkawaikon and Tembie.

• PAUL COURTS