WHILE most racing folk revel in their memories and mythologise the past, it’s equally true that punters and participants operate in an almost perpetual state of anxious anticipation for the future. 

Occasionally, as was the case through the Queensland winter carnival, dedicated diehards do, if only for a few fleeting weeks, live majestically in the moment. 

But with that carnival now consigned to history, fandom and focus rapidly recalibrates to target harness racing’s next crowning glory, the Group 1 Pryde's EasiFeed Victoria Cup. 

Yes, we’re still two months out from that feature event at Tabcorp Park but be sure of this; every open class contest staged between now and October 9, will be referenced in relation to that race. 

In truth, that process has already begun with Saturday night’s TAB Our Maestro Free For All, won my Triple Eight.

Going into that event, experienced analysts were focused on two critical questions. 

Would Western Sonador stamp his dominance over Victoria’s virtuous but mostly sub-elite adversaries after missing a month of competitive racing? 

And could Triple Eight confirm his bona-fides by overcoming a second line draw to figure in the finish? 

In totally literal terms, both queries were answered. 

No, Western Sonador isn’t so superior at this stage of his progression to park out in fast time and own race hardened free-for-all foes. 

And yes, Triple Eight did confirm his previous success was anything but an aberration by replicating that in consecutive weeks. 

But, as usual, the real revelations were much more nuanced and complex than the hard facts might indicate. 

Firstly, Western Sonador should surely have lost no admirers. 

After racing tough throughout, he displayed exactly the kind of courage he’ll require if he’s to ultimately secure Grand Circuit success. 

With clear running late, he probably finishes second rather than fourth. 

Secondly, Triple Eight definitely deserves his plaudits but there’s also no denying that the race played in his favour. 

And thirdly, for those gluttonous fans feverishly spying October’s Vic Cup, much more evidence must be tendered given 15 metres separated first and last.  

Which reveals how closely, at least for now, these open class pacers are aligned. 

HERE is a cold, hard, fact, Keayang Livana deserves much more kudos than she’s been assigned. 

On Saturday night, Marg Lee’s multiple Group 1 winner toyed with her 20m handicap to land the Lightfoot Laurels at Tabcorp Park. 

Prior to the weekend it had been almost 12 months since the star squaregaiter had seen stand start conditions, and earlier in her career, such an obvious obstacle would have upended her. 

That was then, this is now. 

Sent out at a delectable she did what she’s done religiously since mending her manners and prevailed. 

Now she must maintain the rage as ridiculously gifted runner-up Im Ready Jet sinisterly snaps at her heels. 

The opinions expressed in The Forum are those of the author and may not be attributed to or represent policies of Harness Racing Victoria, which is the state authority and owner of thetrots.com.au.