Regional Championship at Ascot: Geraldton-trained horse Bolta bolts home for Scally stables

Geraldton trainer Tony Scally had a big win on Saturday with jockey Austin Galati on board five-year-old gelding Bolta, securing the $100,000 Regional Championship: Road to Ascot.

Bolta qualified for the championship race at Ascot after winning at home on the Utakarra track on November 16, with Galati guiding him home for the regional heat win for the chance to race in Perth.

In signature style, Galati held Bolta back until the final 400 metres of race five, storming down the straight from 11th to edge out Lucy Fiore on Eevalina and Laqdar Ramoly on Leonardo Da Gray in third, bringing the championship to Geraldton and securing a $54,800 first place prize for Scally.

Joining the action in Perth was fellow Geraldton trainer Julia Martin’s team who also qualified for the Road to Ascot with Spirit Man — at $61 — leading the field to the final 400m but finishing in ninth and Safe Hustle — $41 — finishing in 11th place.

Martin’s other entry Big Bopper featured in race one at Ascot, the $201 outsider showing form, finishing behind the main pack in 10th.

The next meet at Geraldton Turf Club is Saturday, December 6.