The Gary White owned and trained Helter Swelter found the new Launceston surface to her liking and raced away with the Toll Tasmania Class One Handicap yesterday at the Launceston Cup.

Helter with strapper David Moore and jockey Michael Guthrie

"She likes the sting out of the ground, and despite there not being a lot of rain the cushion of this newly developed track really suited her today", said an elated White.

Jockey Michael Guthrie took advantage of Helter Swelter's pace and strode the big mare to the front to lead comfortably on a track that was favouring the leaders.

"She seemed more comfortable in front than at her previous starts and I didn't have to ask her for much in the straight, she gave me an armchair ride", said Guthrie who was surprised to have broken the Class record with a time of 1.11.12 seconds for the 1200m trip.

Helter Swelter has been highly rated by the stable despite indifferent form but looks certain to be hard to beat in rain affected going.

"I will see how she pulls up and consider whether we look for another wet track or put her away for the winter racing", White said.

Photo courtesy of Bill Hayes Photographics