The standout performance of the three-year-old trotting filly Sky Flair at Melton has highlighted the achievements of Victorian breeders Dean and Blanche Poole of Rhiannon Park. Over 20 years, the Pooles have bred numerous successful standardbreds, including Group 1 winners like Jilliby Kung Fu, Banglez, and Just A Bit Touchy, as well as other notable horses such as Alby Two Chains and Codename Marcus. Their broodmare Gypsy Flair earned Victorian Trotting Broodmare of the Year in 2021, underscoring the quality of their breeding program. Despite scaling back from foaling 90 mares to 50 last season, the Pooles maintain a boutique, hands-on operation focused on personalized service and strong client relationships.

Other notable recent successes in the industry include Our Luciano winning the Kevin Thomas 4YO at Albion Park, Mitzi Said capturing the Vicbred Platinum Mares Sprint Championship Final, and Generally Speaking setting a new lifetime mark at Hoosier Park. These achievements reflect the ongoing strength and depth of Victorian and Australian standardbred breeding, supported by dedicated breeders like the Pooles and others such as Helen Head and Duncan McPherson.