Yannathan trots owner dares to believe the dream
Brad Walters’ relationship with Just Believe began long before he eventually signed the papers to become a member of the horse’s lucky ownership group.
And now a bucket list trip to Sweden for one of the world’s most iconic races is about to become a reality for the 31-year-old from Yannathan.
Walters previously handled Just Believe while working with the horse’s former trainer Mick Hughes at Iona. He then took up an opportunity to become one of his connections when the respected horse conditioner decided to retire from harness racing training last year.
“There were really two horses that I felt a really special bond with. One was Harry (Just Believe’s stable name) and the other was Visionary, so I took up a share in both of them,” Walters said.
“I always knew he was a good horse, but I never imagined he’d be as good as he is.”
And what a ride it’s been for Walters with the square-gaiter, who has grown into the country’s premier trotter since his move to the Myrnioing stables of Jess Tubbs and Greg Sugars.
An Inter Dominion grand final success and Great Southern Star victory have been among Walters’ reasons to celebrate, with a trip overseas now locked in courtesy of Just Believe’s invite to the Elitloppet at Solvalla on May 28.
“I love the trotters,” says Walters. “Nothing against the pacers, but there’s just a certain skill involved in trotters that amazes me regarding what trainers can do.
“The Elitloppet is certainly something I’ve always been interested in, and it’s been on the bucket list, so when Harry got the invite I didn’t even hesitate to say I was going.”
Walters, a graduate of the former Gippsland Harness Training Centre, said he would be thrilled with whatever Just Believe was able to achieve in the Elitloppet.
“He could finish 100 metres behind the field, and I’d be proud of him,” he said.
“But I think he’s got the capability to finish, in the very least, with them. I’d be surprised if he doesn’t even beat one home at least in the heat.
“That horse has got that much heart and he just want to do it he’s such a professional.”
And if Just Believe happened to become the first Australian-trained horse to reach the Elitloppet final with a top four finish in his qualifier?
“I’d be beside myself,” Walters said.
“I fell over after the Inter Dominion win, I don’t know if I’d be able to get up after a heat win.”
Just Believe will be stabled at the property of legendary trainer Stig Johansson while in Sweden.
In total, 14 of the horse’s owners will make the trip overseas to see him race in the world-famous event this weekend.