Legendary horseman Graeme Rogerson has conquered some of the biggest stages in Australasian racing, but Saturday night’s Group 1 Aldebaran Park Bill Collins Trotters Sprint at Melton presents another opportunity for success with talented trotter Lovemeto.
The New Zealand Trotting Derby winner, raced by Rogerson and Merv Butterworth, has overcome significant setbacks since arriving in Australia in 2024 to join trainer Chris Svanosio.
Behind that move lies a special connection to Svanosio’s late father-in-law, highly respected veterinarian Alastair MacLean.
Rogerson’s friendship with MacLean dates back to his time training for prominent thoroughbred owner Lloyd Williams, while Butterworth also enjoyed a longstanding association with him.
“Alastair had such a great reputation, not just for his knowledge but how he treated everyone,” Svanosio said.
“He treated everyone the same and always had the horses’ best interests at heart.”
MacLean also helped establish the property where Svanosio and his wife, Elizabeth, train, making Lovemeto’s journey particularly meaningful.
Lovemeto arrived with impressive credentials but has endured a frustrating Australian campaign.
He produced a remarkable performance when runner-up to The Locomotive in a 2025 Great Southern Star heat, with the winner setting a Melton track record.
“He was off the track, they smashed the track record and he just kept coming,” Svanosio recalled.
However, Lovemeto failed the post-race veterinary examination and was scratched from the final.
He subsequently finished third in the Australian Trotting Championship before persistent back problems resurfaced, sidelining him until January this year.
“It’s been a long process getting him back to the races. We’re just managing his workload and trying to keep him sound,” Svanosio said.
Lovemeto has since demonstrated his class, finishing second to champion mare Keayang Zahara and winning an Inter Dominion heat in Queensland.
Saturday night’s Group 1 feature could also determine whether Rogerson’s trotter returns to New Zealand for the Dominion Trot and other major races.
Svanosio, who previously campaigned Arcee Phoenix across the Tasman, knows the challenge involved.
“He’d probably have to win very impressively and pull up terrific to be going,” he said.
“It’s a big trip, two flights to get there, and there are some really good trotters in New Zealand.”
Whatever Saturday brings, Lovemeto’s journey continues a legacy Svanosio holds dear.
“It would be good if Alastair was still here,” he said.
“It’s pretty special. He’s the one who’s connected this all together.”
