~~The Belmont turf club hosted a metropolitan meeting on Wednesday, July 23 with overcast conditions and light drizzle, presented a Dead 5 surface.
Ben saddled up Mad Brad in race five in a 0 to 72 handicap for three year olds and up over 1400m, wearing saddle cloth 9, with Peter Hall in charge.
On jumping the Ben Pearce combination were out even, sliding behind the leaders to settle off the pace in a relaxed position in fifth spot.
Helena Miss controlled the event around the side with Duke Of Vasac in 2nd and Dark Rock on the inside of the favorite Portonian, with Mad Brad's jockey, (Hall) electing to sit outside without cover giving the duo a run at the leaders when required.
Coming to the turn Portonian's jockey snuck a peak and let down with his charge, Peter Hall had figured he would trail the favorite if he was to be a contender.
On straightening the early pace of the leaders took its toll, with Helena Miss plodding, Mad Brad had come off Portonian's girth and headed for the judge, and in a display of toughness hit the lead, grinding away to score by a 1/4 of a length's to Portonian in second with Dark Rock in third and Korenica in fourth.
Congratulations to Mr B Pearce and Mr (Mad Brad) Jones on another victory.