A review of the meeting held at Doomben on Thursday, November 6.
Race 1:
Maiden Plate - 1630m
1st - Sharing The Magic; 2nd - Arcangela; 3rd - Smartness
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Robert Heathcote: “The ground helped for sure, but it’s really all about finding the right race for any horse. This turned out to be his race. He’s been running at the Sunshine Coast in big fields. The track here, a smaller field, the conditions – it was a quite different mix. Turned out it suited him to a tee.”
Jockey Shane Scriven: “That went exactly to plan. That’s why I get paid the big dollars. The opposition was only ordinary and he always had two lengths on them.”
The win was good timing for some, bad timing for others. Sharing The Magic had eight owners three runs back but, after failing to get past first base after ten runs, seven owners decided to sack the horse. They were bought out by the remaining owner, Bruce Harry.
Owner Bruce Harry: “I can’t say I saw anything in the horse particularly, but I thought I’m in it now, I’ll stick with it. I was quite happy to keep it as a horse to ride when it was finished. This is a nice bonus.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Sharing The Magic (S. Scriven) jumped away awkwardly and shifted out, brushing the hind quarters of Affidavit (S. Galloway). Smartness (S. Cormack) was inclined to shift out under pressure over the concluding stages. Stewards questioned S. Cormack as to his riding tactics on Smartness, in particular racing 3 wide for the majority of the race. S. Cormack stated he was not given any specific instructions other than to endeavour to have Smartness positioned with cover. He stated that rounding the first turn he was caught wide and as his mount was inclined to travel keenly, he endeavoured to try and get the mare to relax despite being caught 3 wide. He added that he did not push forward to race outside the leader as he was intent on having his mount relax rather than over-race and was also concerned that should he make use of the filly, it may not see out the distance of the race. The explanation was noted. A post-race veterinary examination of Mary’s Halo revealed the mare to have been galloped on the off-foreleg. Following this event, the track was upgraded to Slow 6.
Race 2:
Maiden Handicap - 1020m
1st - Vanqualo; 2nd - Zeljko; 3rd - Beyond The Limit
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Liam Birchley (clearly chuffed with the time recorded by his winner): “Look he’s been working well and I knew he would be competitive. But to run that sort of time on debut exceeded my expectations.”
Vanqualo set a new class record, stopping the clock in the smart time of 59.17 seconds. The previous class record of 59.64 seconds (established in October 2005) had stood behind the name of Vital Statistic.
This was apprentice jockey Chris McIver’s second winner in as many meetings. McIver won on Condoleezza at Ipswich on Wednesday.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Beyond The Limit (S. Scriven) jumped in the air as the gates were released and missed the start. Burn So Cool (A. Spinks) hung out rounding the first turn and in the middle stages.
Race 3:
3yo Maiden Handicap- 1350m
1st - Craiglea Falcon; 2nd - Social Cat; 3rd - Shot Bar
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Peter Fleming: “He’s had three runs down here. (Craiglea Falcon’s first two career runs were in Rockhampton). The first run was after a spell and it was too short for him. Also he kept running into dead-end after dead-end. The second run at the Sunshine Coast was more like it. (The gelding finished second). Then last time he was ridden wrong. He hit the front too early.
“He couldn’t have left it any later this time. I thought we were alright until Adrian (Coome) had his whip knocked out of his hand just as he was going for it. Thankfully the horse rallied anyway and just got there.”
Jockey Adrian Coome: “I went for my whip at about the 150m and it was knocked clean out of my hand by Kelvin Wharton on my inside. I didn’t become unbalanced or anything like that, but all I could do was push with my hands. The horse kept responding and got up.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Social Cat (M. Radecker) and Molly Jo (J. Byrne) both jumped away awkwardly. Near the 250m, Social Cat (M. Radecker) was momentarily steadied when taking a run between Shot Bar (B. Pengelly), which shifted out slightly, and Pea Eye Cee (P. Hammersley), which shifted in. At the 200m, Craiglea Falcon (A. Coome) shifted out to improve and brushed Molly Jo (J. Byrne). Molly Jo was then inclined to lay out over the concluding stages. A. Coome, rider of Craiglea Falcon, dropped his whip near the 100m. Near the 100m, Social Cat (M. Radecker) was inclined to lay out, taking Pea Eye Cee out on to Chadwick (K. Wharton), which had to be steadied. Following this event, the track rating was upgraded to Dead 5.
Race 4:
Class 5 Handicap - 1350m
1st - Go Sequalo; 2nd - Beartracker; 3rd - Seen'em Comin'
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Barry Baldwin: “Third run back, given more ground ... I’m just happy his winning again.”
Go Sequalo, who races for the same connections who own Simplest and Burdekin Blues, gave jockey Shane Scriven a double at the meeting, which came on top of the double Scriven had ridden at Ipswich twenty-four hours earlier.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Crystal Sentinel (J. Taylor) jumped away awkwardly. Go Sequalo (S. Scriven) and Albarista (Matthew Palmer) were both a little slow to begin. Trainer M. Mair reported that Crystal Sentinel, which proved disappointing, would now be sent for a spell.
Race 5:
Class 3 Plate (Set weights) - 2030m
1st - Dawns Queen; 2nd - A Grade; 3rd - Another Speights
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Jockey Sean Cormack: “She’s a pretty laid back mare. All I tried to do was settle her, but at the same time I was aware that she needed to be not that far off the speed. We got a lovely run and when I switched her out into daylight she finished off really well.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Strawberry Ripple reared in the barriers on 2 occasions, dislodging S. Galloway. Strawberry Ripple then broke through the barriers and following advice from the veterinary surgeon, Dr Lenz, the mare was withdrawn at 2.59 pm. Barako and Dawns Queen, which were in adjoining stalls, were examined by the club's veterinary surgeon and cleared to race. Trainer B Smith indicated that the horse would now be spelled and stewards ordered that he would be required to produce a further barrier test certificate for Strawberry Ripple prior to its next race start. Bold Distinction (C. McIver) and Barako (P. Hammersley) jumped away awkwardly and missed the start. Tact (A. Taylor) shifted out shortly after the start.
Race 6:
Class 5 Handicap - 1630m
1st - Defend The Hill; 2nd - Southerly Impact; 3rd - Our Lukas
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Is this a prime example of a late-developer or are there other reasons for the fact that Defend The Hill has come into his own as a seven-year-old, winning four of his last five starts when his overall record is six wins from twenty-seven starts?
Trainer Brad Maidment: “He’s had real issues. Cracked sesamoids, chipped knees ... and it’s an on-going process. Treatment and time, that’s what it has been all about. Things like applying poultices then seeing how he comes through that. It happens all of the time. There is no let-up. He requires on-going treatment. Really needs to be looked after.
“We got him right for the day, then the jockey had an accident in training early this morning and nearly missed the ride. I’m really pleased for Don (Barron) that he came through. He gets on so well with this horse and he deserved his chance in the city.”
Jockey Donald Barron: “Yeah, I nearly missed out. I came off a horse in work this morning. He ducked out at the gap and I fell off on the rail. I got a haematoma on my shin and some bruising all the way up my thigh. When I came off, I thought there goes my ride today, but the more I looked at the form, the more I thought I can’t miss this one. (Defend The Hill had won three of his last four starts, all with Barron in the saddle). I was lucky I only had one ride. I could cope with that.
“There was no speed in the race, so he had it pretty easy. He has got a turn of foot and I knew if they let him run his own race early, they would struggle to get to him in the straight.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
After riding in race 5, J. Bowditch was examined by the club's doctor and stood down from his remaining engagements in races 6, 7 and 8. Correct weight was delayed to enable jockey S. Scriven to view the stewards' footage of the start as he was concerned he was denied a fair start on Our Lukas. After viewing the film of the start, stewards were satisfied that the horse was afforded the opportunity to jump with the field despite being fractious in the barriers, and acting under AR134A, as Our Lukas finished 3rd, stewards declared correct weight on the Judge's placings.
Our Lukas (S. Scriven), which had been fractious in the barriers, missed the start. Soon after the start, Wings Of Seraph was inclined to lay in on to the heels of Brief Me (S. Cormack) and had to be checked. Our Lukas (S. Scriven), which was following, had to be eased to avoid the heels of Wings Of Seraph. Wings Of Seraph was inclined to race fiercely around the first turn. Passing the 800m, Latin Idol (A. Spinks) got its head up and raced ungenerously for a short distance after it improved on to the heels of Southern Impact (R. Goltz). Southern Impact was held up for some distance rounding the home turn behind the heels of Falzig and was unable to obtain clear running until shortly after straightening. Following this event, the track rating was upgraded to Dead 4 at 4.12 pm.
Race 7:
Class 3 Handicap - 1200m
1st - Pyramids; 2nd - Raffael Nediym; 3rd - Scudder
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Matthew Dunn (Foreman for the newly established Gerald Ryan stables at Murwillumbah): “We’ve been there about a month now. I agree it’s an interesting choice of location but it serves our purpose well, being able to tackle the Northern Rivers or travel to the Gold Coast or Brisbane without any fuss. We’ve got ten horses in training there at the moment. I expect that figure to pick up to about twenty to twenty-five horses.
“Matthew Palmer is on both of our horses today. We don’t have any formal arrangement with any jockey as yet. Matthew was keen enough to come down and ride work the other day. He wasn’t that far behind the top boys when he was in Sydney and we’d probably steer his way if we can. I think he kill them all up here once he gets going.”
Apprentice jockey Matthew Palmer: “We were always going to get back, but then I got caught a bit wide so I had to go a bit earlier than I would have liked, otherwise they might have gone away from him. He had to work all the way from the 600m to the finishing line. He’s got a brilliant turn of foot and he let down sensationally to put us right in the race and then get the result.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Pyramids (M. Palmer) jumped inwards at the start and brushed Raffael Nediym (C. Reith). Ben’s The Boss (S. Scriven) also jumped inwards at the start and made heavy contact with the hind quarters of Alpha Boy.
Race 8:
F&M Class 3 Handicap - 1200m
1st - Savanna La Mar; 2nd - Morgalicious; 3rd - Guissepino
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Bruce Hill: “We seemed to have worked him out at last. He’s last two runs have been encouraging. It’s taken a while.”
Jockey Paul Hammersley (who continues to ride winners on a regular basis): “I pulled her out at the top of the straight and she had to work home all the way. She was a bit unlucky last time. She struck a bit of trouble but still ran second. I made certain I took her to the outside where she had a clear run this time.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Simian Express was declared a late scratching at 3.11 pm after the mare injured itself when being loaded on to the float to be transported to the course. The start was delayed slightly when Guissepino (C. McIver), which was fractious in the barriers, sprung the gates open. Work The Body (M. Palmer) jumped inwards at the start and made contact with Morgalicious (D. Craven), forcing it out on to Guissepino, which jumped away awkwardly. Leaving the 700m, Savanna La Mar (P. Hammersley) had to be steadied after improving on to the heels of Morgalicious.
Friday, November 7, 2008
Thursday, November 6, 2008
IPSWICH REVIEW (WED, NOV 5)
A review of the meeting held at Ipswich on Wednesday, November 5.
Race 1:
QTIS 3yo Handicap - 800m
1st - First Night Fever; 2nd - Lethal Intent; 3rd - Miss Blackwood
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Andrew Williamson: “I wanted to geld him after his first prep but he was very sick and I didn’t want to add to the stress. So I left it and brought him back for a couple of runs, but he was still wayward. Then went ahead and gelded him and the result speaks for itself.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Flicka Light (J. Murphy), which was slow to begin, was tightened for room shortly after the start between Miss Blackwood (K. Pope) and Second Hand Mac (S. Bogenhuber), which shifted out after knuckling over at the start. Miss Blackwood, which had a tendency to lay out throughout the event, shifted out near the 400m, forcing Lethal Intent (L. Dittman) wider on the track. Near the 200m, Second Hand Mac (S. Bogenhuber) shifted in abruptly near the 200m and had to be steadied. Medesano (L. Dittman) was obliged to race 3 wide throughout.
Race 2:
3yo & Up Handicap - 1020m
1st - Kelly; 2nd - Morcombe; 3rd - Willyclang
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Garry Kirkup: “Yeah, Scottie was pretty keen to come and ride him. (This was jockey Scott Seamer’s only ride for the day). I’ve only had the horse for four runs now and Scott won on him first time out for me. He was beaten in dead going over 1200m in the second start and then his run last time, when he came back from a spell, wasn’t bad at all as he was held up on the turn. We thought we had the best horse in the race but a big weight is always a worry.”
Jockey Scott Seamer: “I was happy to come for the ride. Gary got him from Gerald Ryan. I won on him at Coloundra on Cup day there. Then we were beaten over 1200m in dead going last time. He pulled up a bit tender there, but basically he’s a 1000m horse. That’s his go. So Gary will be looking to find some 1000m races for him.
“The weight (59kg) wasn’t a problem. He’s a big strong horse and can cope with it. I mean he does carry Garry’s weight in training, after-all.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
After beginning awkwardly, Blue Jupiter (M. Speers) was slow into stride. Willyclang (A. Spinks) commenced to buck shortly after the start. Trainer R. Coveney was advised that Willyclang must trial satisfactorily prior to its next race start. Leaving the 800m, The Darkcee (B. Payne) began to race ungenerously and shifted out, taking Blue Jupiter (M. Speers) wider on the track. The Darkcee continued to race ungenerously and hung out badly rounding the home turn, resulting in the horse making contact with the outside running rail. As a result of injuries sustained in this incident, The Darkcee was subsequently euthanased on humane grounds Apprentice M. Speers was reprimanded for failing to weigh in on the 5th place-getter, Blue Jupiter.
Race 3:
CG&E Maiden Plate - 1200m
1st - Encosticated; 2nd - Medesano; 3rd - Liquidate
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Glenn Clunes: “He had a long time off (ten months) but that was only to allow him to mature. The benefit is there to see in his two runs since he came back. He was just touched off first-up and now has won here. We expect him to get better with more ground.”
Jockey Shane Scriven: “There are still some issues to iron out with him but he’s a horse with a future if he learns. This was his only second run back and he is looking for more ground so it was a good result.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Elate And Excite (J. Piper) began awkwardly, resulting in J. Piper losing her balance in the early stages. Near the 800m, Diamond Zak (D. Griffin) had to be steadied when tightened for room when racing between Encostigated (S. Scriven) and Delezio (R. Goltz), both of which shifted ground. Medesano lost if near hind plate in running.
Race 4:
F&M Maiden Plate - 1200m
1st - Havanaise; 2nd - Hitno Bay; 3rd - Eclise
WINNER FEEDBACK:
In spite of not having the easiest of passages, Havanaise justified her short price with a dominating display which saw her come home 3.00 lengths clear of the chasing pack. There was a moment of slight concern when the mare was held up for a run in the straight, but apprentice Matthew Palmer was more than equal to the task and he successfully guided the four-year-old into daylight and on to a clear-cut victory.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Havanaise (M. Palmer) was tightened for room on jumping away between Pamela’s Wonder (C. Small) and Eclise (C. Reith), which shifted out. Rosebrn (C. McIver) shifted in and made contact with Overrated (A. Spinks) at the start. Near the 1100m, Pamela’s Wonder (C. Small) had to be steadied off the heels of Havanaise (M. Palmer), which shifted out. My Big Bird (D. Barron) shifted ground under pressure over the final 300m. Havanaise (M. Palmer) was held up for clear running rounding the home turn and until leaving the 200m. Express Miss (R. Goltz) raced wide for the majority of the event.
Race 5:
QTIS Class 1 Handicap - 1700m
1st - Overruling; 2nd - Femme Lien; 3rd - Esquivar
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Kelly Schweida: “Third run back, picking up in distance so I was expecting improvement. Was I happy that he (jockey Christian Reith) went so early? No, I wasn’t. I was very worried actually. (Then light-heartedly) I thought I might have to hang him out to dry if he’d got it wrong. Or rather, perhaps you can say that, at the 200m mark, the jockey was more confident than the trainer.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Approaching the 300m, Heartland (L. Dittman) was held up for a short distance when disappointed for a run between Laurinel Beauty (A. Pattillo) and Femme Lien (S. Scriven). Laurinel Beauty (A. Pattillo) and Nayriddam were caught racing wide for the majority of the event. Fionn Mac Cool lost its near fore plate in running.
Race 6:
Class 3 Handicap – 1350m
1st -Murphy's Creek; 2nd - King Of Spirit; 3rd - Wind Gusts
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Bruce Hill: “He’s been disappointing. He’s come up looking like he was going to win a few times only to get beat – and I thought he was going to do it again today. This (1350m) is probably about as far as he wants it. He’s bred to go five miles, but this distance looks to be about it.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Murphy’s Creek (P. Hammersley) was slow to begin. Lezant (S. Bogenhuber) and Wind Gusts (D. Griffin) came together and bumped on jumping away. Lezant had difficulty obtaining clear running in the early stages of the straight.
Race 7:
F&M Class 1 Handicap - 1200m
1st - Condoleezza; 2nd - Cachaca; 3rd - Fast End
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Tony Sears: “She’s got fair ability and I think if she’s kept to Fillies and Mares races she can keep holding her own.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Stewards acceded to a request from trainer B. Guy to scratch Marriedtoaprince following the downgrading of the track to Slow 7 at 3.08 pm. Sirena Ligera (S. Scriven) shifted out at the start, forcing Jezzamine (D. Griffin) wider. Near the 800m, Condoleezza (C. McIver) had to be steadied off the heels of Sirena Ligera, which was taken in by Jezzamine (D. Griffin), which shifted in abruptly. Nattsukee (D. Green) and Char Innocent (S. Bogenhuber), which were trailing, had to be steadied as a consequence. Approaching the 300m, Toboulio (J. Murphy) was tightened for room between Nattsukee and Condoleezza, which shifted out to improve.
When questioned regarding the tactics and overall performance of Jezzamine, D. Griffin explained that he was instructed to put the horse into the race in the early stages as he was advised that the mare had raced successfully in that position interstate. Trainer J. Wallace confirmed the instructions to jockey Griffin and further explained that he had been disappointed with the mare's performances in previous starts and felt that it would be advantageous if Jezzamine was ridden in a more forward position today. Both D. Griffin and J. Wallace confirmed their disappointment with the mare's overall performance today. Mr Wallace added that it would be his intention not to continue with the horse's current racing program.
Race 8:
CG&E Class 1 Handicap- 1200m
1st - Chaski; 2nd - Coxswain; 3rd - Conchenka
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Liam Birchley: “This is his first run for me. He has come back fresh after a spell. Very pleased with the way he finished off. Had to get to the other horse (Coxswain) but he always seemed to have his measure.”
Chaski gave jockey Shane Scriven his second winner at the meeting.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Wide Bay (J. Murphy) blundered on jumping away. Leaving the 400m, Black Count (P. Hammersley) had to be steadied off the heels of Stand And Fire (D. Craven), which was taken out by Chaski (S. Scriven). Wide Bay and Stefenick (C. Eaton) raced wide for the majority of the event. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of Black Count, P. Hammersley stated that, in his opinion, the gelding failed to handle the prevailing track conditions.
Race 1:
QTIS 3yo Handicap - 800m
1st - First Night Fever; 2nd - Lethal Intent; 3rd - Miss Blackwood
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Andrew Williamson: “I wanted to geld him after his first prep but he was very sick and I didn’t want to add to the stress. So I left it and brought him back for a couple of runs, but he was still wayward. Then went ahead and gelded him and the result speaks for itself.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Flicka Light (J. Murphy), which was slow to begin, was tightened for room shortly after the start between Miss Blackwood (K. Pope) and Second Hand Mac (S. Bogenhuber), which shifted out after knuckling over at the start. Miss Blackwood, which had a tendency to lay out throughout the event, shifted out near the 400m, forcing Lethal Intent (L. Dittman) wider on the track. Near the 200m, Second Hand Mac (S. Bogenhuber) shifted in abruptly near the 200m and had to be steadied. Medesano (L. Dittman) was obliged to race 3 wide throughout.
Race 2:
3yo & Up Handicap - 1020m
1st - Kelly; 2nd - Morcombe; 3rd - Willyclang
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Garry Kirkup: “Yeah, Scottie was pretty keen to come and ride him. (This was jockey Scott Seamer’s only ride for the day). I’ve only had the horse for four runs now and Scott won on him first time out for me. He was beaten in dead going over 1200m in the second start and then his run last time, when he came back from a spell, wasn’t bad at all as he was held up on the turn. We thought we had the best horse in the race but a big weight is always a worry.”
Jockey Scott Seamer: “I was happy to come for the ride. Gary got him from Gerald Ryan. I won on him at Coloundra on Cup day there. Then we were beaten over 1200m in dead going last time. He pulled up a bit tender there, but basically he’s a 1000m horse. That’s his go. So Gary will be looking to find some 1000m races for him.
“The weight (59kg) wasn’t a problem. He’s a big strong horse and can cope with it. I mean he does carry Garry’s weight in training, after-all.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
After beginning awkwardly, Blue Jupiter (M. Speers) was slow into stride. Willyclang (A. Spinks) commenced to buck shortly after the start. Trainer R. Coveney was advised that Willyclang must trial satisfactorily prior to its next race start. Leaving the 800m, The Darkcee (B. Payne) began to race ungenerously and shifted out, taking Blue Jupiter (M. Speers) wider on the track. The Darkcee continued to race ungenerously and hung out badly rounding the home turn, resulting in the horse making contact with the outside running rail. As a result of injuries sustained in this incident, The Darkcee was subsequently euthanased on humane grounds Apprentice M. Speers was reprimanded for failing to weigh in on the 5th place-getter, Blue Jupiter.
Race 3:
CG&E Maiden Plate - 1200m
1st - Encosticated; 2nd - Medesano; 3rd - Liquidate
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Glenn Clunes: “He had a long time off (ten months) but that was only to allow him to mature. The benefit is there to see in his two runs since he came back. He was just touched off first-up and now has won here. We expect him to get better with more ground.”
Jockey Shane Scriven: “There are still some issues to iron out with him but he’s a horse with a future if he learns. This was his only second run back and he is looking for more ground so it was a good result.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Elate And Excite (J. Piper) began awkwardly, resulting in J. Piper losing her balance in the early stages. Near the 800m, Diamond Zak (D. Griffin) had to be steadied when tightened for room when racing between Encostigated (S. Scriven) and Delezio (R. Goltz), both of which shifted ground. Medesano lost if near hind plate in running.
Race 4:
F&M Maiden Plate - 1200m
1st - Havanaise; 2nd - Hitno Bay; 3rd - Eclise
WINNER FEEDBACK:
In spite of not having the easiest of passages, Havanaise justified her short price with a dominating display which saw her come home 3.00 lengths clear of the chasing pack. There was a moment of slight concern when the mare was held up for a run in the straight, but apprentice Matthew Palmer was more than equal to the task and he successfully guided the four-year-old into daylight and on to a clear-cut victory.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Havanaise (M. Palmer) was tightened for room on jumping away between Pamela’s Wonder (C. Small) and Eclise (C. Reith), which shifted out. Rosebrn (C. McIver) shifted in and made contact with Overrated (A. Spinks) at the start. Near the 1100m, Pamela’s Wonder (C. Small) had to be steadied off the heels of Havanaise (M. Palmer), which shifted out. My Big Bird (D. Barron) shifted ground under pressure over the final 300m. Havanaise (M. Palmer) was held up for clear running rounding the home turn and until leaving the 200m. Express Miss (R. Goltz) raced wide for the majority of the event.
Race 5:
QTIS Class 1 Handicap - 1700m
1st - Overruling; 2nd - Femme Lien; 3rd - Esquivar
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Kelly Schweida: “Third run back, picking up in distance so I was expecting improvement. Was I happy that he (jockey Christian Reith) went so early? No, I wasn’t. I was very worried actually. (Then light-heartedly) I thought I might have to hang him out to dry if he’d got it wrong. Or rather, perhaps you can say that, at the 200m mark, the jockey was more confident than the trainer.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Approaching the 300m, Heartland (L. Dittman) was held up for a short distance when disappointed for a run between Laurinel Beauty (A. Pattillo) and Femme Lien (S. Scriven). Laurinel Beauty (A. Pattillo) and Nayriddam were caught racing wide for the majority of the event. Fionn Mac Cool lost its near fore plate in running.
Race 6:
Class 3 Handicap – 1350m
1st -Murphy's Creek; 2nd - King Of Spirit; 3rd - Wind Gusts
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Bruce Hill: “He’s been disappointing. He’s come up looking like he was going to win a few times only to get beat – and I thought he was going to do it again today. This (1350m) is probably about as far as he wants it. He’s bred to go five miles, but this distance looks to be about it.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Murphy’s Creek (P. Hammersley) was slow to begin. Lezant (S. Bogenhuber) and Wind Gusts (D. Griffin) came together and bumped on jumping away. Lezant had difficulty obtaining clear running in the early stages of the straight.
Race 7:
F&M Class 1 Handicap - 1200m
1st - Condoleezza; 2nd - Cachaca; 3rd - Fast End
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Tony Sears: “She’s got fair ability and I think if she’s kept to Fillies and Mares races she can keep holding her own.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Stewards acceded to a request from trainer B. Guy to scratch Marriedtoaprince following the downgrading of the track to Slow 7 at 3.08 pm. Sirena Ligera (S. Scriven) shifted out at the start, forcing Jezzamine (D. Griffin) wider. Near the 800m, Condoleezza (C. McIver) had to be steadied off the heels of Sirena Ligera, which was taken in by Jezzamine (D. Griffin), which shifted in abruptly. Nattsukee (D. Green) and Char Innocent (S. Bogenhuber), which were trailing, had to be steadied as a consequence. Approaching the 300m, Toboulio (J. Murphy) was tightened for room between Nattsukee and Condoleezza, which shifted out to improve.
When questioned regarding the tactics and overall performance of Jezzamine, D. Griffin explained that he was instructed to put the horse into the race in the early stages as he was advised that the mare had raced successfully in that position interstate. Trainer J. Wallace confirmed the instructions to jockey Griffin and further explained that he had been disappointed with the mare's performances in previous starts and felt that it would be advantageous if Jezzamine was ridden in a more forward position today. Both D. Griffin and J. Wallace confirmed their disappointment with the mare's overall performance today. Mr Wallace added that it would be his intention not to continue with the horse's current racing program.
Race 8:
CG&E Class 1 Handicap- 1200m
1st - Chaski; 2nd - Coxswain; 3rd - Conchenka
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Liam Birchley: “This is his first run for me. He has come back fresh after a spell. Very pleased with the way he finished off. Had to get to the other horse (Coxswain) but he always seemed to have his measure.”
Chaski gave jockey Shane Scriven his second winner at the meeting.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Wide Bay (J. Murphy) blundered on jumping away. Leaving the 400m, Black Count (P. Hammersley) had to be steadied off the heels of Stand And Fire (D. Craven), which was taken out by Chaski (S. Scriven). Wide Bay and Stefenick (C. Eaton) raced wide for the majority of the event. When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of Black Count, P. Hammersley stated that, in his opinion, the gelding failed to handle the prevailing track conditions.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
SUNSHINE COAST REVIEW (SUN, NOV 2)
A review of the meeting held at the Sunshine Coast on Sunday, November 2.
Race 1:
Class 5 Handicap - 1800m
1st - My Almanac; 2nd - California Express; 3rd - Winmara
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Alan Jones: “He’s a long striding stayer who will kick late. If they allow him a soft lead like that they must take the consequences.”
Jockey Rachel Mason: “I took him out in front but, because of the small field, the pace I set was a bit slower than I normally would. If something had taken me on I would have quickened up, but they left me alone and I took advantage of that. I just saved him as long as I could and then started to push about the 700m because he’s a horse that needs to get going early – and it paid off.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Stewards questioned apprentice M. Hughes, the rider of La Marianne, as to why he had not allowed his mount to stride forward in the middle stages and apply more pressure to the leader My Almanac (R. Mason) when it had become apparent that that horse had slowed the pace of the race considerably. M. Hughes stated that La Marianne was only having its second start over 1800m and with the blinkers on today felt that, whilst the horse had over-raced in the early stages, it was best to give the mare an opportunity to settle as to afford it every chance to run the distance out. He added that he was able to make ground on the leader approaching the 450m and upon straightening was within a length of My Almanac. M. Hughes further added that La Marianne failed to respond to his riding as anticipated in the straight and in his opinion was better suited to shorter distances.
Race 2:
Maiden Handicap - 1200m
1st - Tanzill; 2nd - Moubassin; 3rd - Go Rainey
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Michael Lakey: “He’s got a bad constitution. He is a finicky eater. He always appears stressed and fired up. That’s him though. It’s got nothing to do with race-day. He’s the same at track-work. A friend of mine saw him in the ring and asked how anybody could put money on him.
“He got away with it today, but it will cost him somewhere along the way. It might even stop him. He can improve I suppose. In fact he will have to if he is going to make it much further.”
Jockey Tony Pattillo: “He gives the impression that he could go on with it. He gives you a nice feel. But he does need to get his brain right first. He’s got plenty to work out.”
Tanzill was having his third start. It was his first run since being gelded.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
We’re All In It (R. Wiggins) was slow to begin. Chintz (C. Kearney) jumped away awkwardly. Moubassin (S. Cormack) shifted out under pressure over the concluding stages.
Race 3:
F&M Class 1 Handicap - 1400m
1st - My Counsel; 2nd - Craiglea Symphony; 3rd - Zigalong
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Brian Smith originally wanted to wait until Melbourne Cup day to race this horse. A change of plan and the mare suddenly has two wins to her credit before the Cup was run. We’ve been talking for weeks about Smith’s telling strike rate this season, and we are talking about it because it has become something of a constant from one meeting to another . As if that fact needed any emphasis, Smith struck again at Eagle Farm at the next meeting, this time with Malandrina on Melbourne Cup day.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Gracemere (M. Heagney) had to be steadied shortly after the start when tightened for room between Zigalong (D. Craven) and Xaar Crazy (K. Wharton), which shifted in. Passing the 800m Palace Party (J. Wood) was tightened for room by Craiglea Symphony (A. Badger), which had commenced to over-race and shifted in when being restrained. A short distance later Craiglea Symphony, which continued to over-race, shifted out and made contact with Body Double (A. Pattillo). Craiglea Symphony and Gracemere were inclined to lay in when placed under pressure in the home straight.
Race 4:
C,G & E Class 1 Handicap - 1400m
1st - Octahedron; 2nd - Siege; 3rd - Swift Leo
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Geoff Burns: “We bought him as an unraced three-year-old from New Zealand. He showed ability from the start and he has been a pleasure to train. Look at him. He’s so calm. Just a lovely horse. So far, he doesn’t know how to run a bad race. We are just slowly building him up in distance. He’ll get over ground for sure.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Ready To Rise (S. Cormack) raced three wide throughout. J. Piper, the rider of Carry On Kenzie, was reprimanded under AR. 137(a) for allowing her mount to shift in near the 650m resulting in Swift Leo (R. McMahon) having to be steadied. Octahedron (B. Pengelly) laid in under pressure over the concluding stages of the event. A post-race veterinary examination of Carry On Kenzie (J. Piper) failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 5:
4yo and up Maiden Handicap - 1600m
1st - Stiletto Heels; 2nd - Red Treasure; 3rd - Probability
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Jockey Tony Pattillo (who secured a double with this win to take the day’s riding honours): “I’ve ridden him before and had some luck on him. We ran into a couple of places. He probably should have got a result before this but at least he rectified that today. I was very happy to come here today. I only had four rides, but it was a good book of rides and to get two winners is quite satisfying.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Trainer T. Gillespie was fined $100 under AR. 140A for presenting Cinquacasino to race with incorrect gear. J. Piper was fined $200 under AR. 92(12) for failing to claim her full allowance on Shreps. Tyrconnell (P. Wolfgram) and The Traps Are Set (M. Heagney) over-raced in the early and middle stages. Leaving the 1200m Shreps (J. Piper), which had commenced to over-race, shifted out when being restrained taking Smartazariz (R. Wiggins) wider on the track. Cinquacasino, Smartazariz and All The Jays (K. Forrester) raced wide for the majority of the event.
Race 6:
Class 4 Handicap - 1400m
1st - Eleventh Command; 2nd – Chaufuhr; 3rd - Vargas Girl
WINNER FEEDBACK:
This race provided a stirring, stride for stride battle for the honours between the Chris Dawson trained Eleventh Command and the Bruce McLachlan trained Chaufuhr, with the former prevailing by a narrow margin. Eleventh Command, who was ridden with winning determination by Kelvin Wharton, had to fight every inch of the way to earn the fifth win of his career.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Chaufuhr (S. Cormack) over-raced for a short distance near the 800m. Luna Pride (S. Bogenhuber) lost its near-side fore plate in running.
Race 7:
Class 2 Handicap - 1200m
1st – Geebeetee; 2nd - Eye Eye Silver; 3rd - Cuban Dancer
WINNER FEEDBACK:
After being beaten by narrow margins in two earlier races the Bruce McLachlan / Sean Cormack combination made no mistake in the last race when Geebeetee returned to his best form in his second run back from a spell to earn the third win of his career.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
As B. Pengelly was to be overweight, C. Reith was substituted as the rider of Cuban Dancer. B. Pengelly was fined $200 under AR. 120(b). Berani Merah Jambu (J. Wood) jumped away awkwardly and lost considerable ground. On Ice (K. Wharton) and Fielding (A. Merritt) raced wide for the majority of the event. Goyousoandso (N. Thomas) over-raced for a short distance leaving the 900m. When questioned regarding the seemingly disappointing performance of Guissepino jockey R. Wiggins stated that the mare travelled well during the event, however failed to stretch out when placed under pressure. R. Wiggins was of the opinion that the mare appreciates more give in the ground than today's surface. A post-race veterinary examination of Guissepino failed to reveal any abnormalities. On Ice (K. Wharton) lost its near-side hind plate in running.
Race 1:
Class 5 Handicap - 1800m
1st - My Almanac; 2nd - California Express; 3rd - Winmara
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Alan Jones: “He’s a long striding stayer who will kick late. If they allow him a soft lead like that they must take the consequences.”
Jockey Rachel Mason: “I took him out in front but, because of the small field, the pace I set was a bit slower than I normally would. If something had taken me on I would have quickened up, but they left me alone and I took advantage of that. I just saved him as long as I could and then started to push about the 700m because he’s a horse that needs to get going early – and it paid off.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Stewards questioned apprentice M. Hughes, the rider of La Marianne, as to why he had not allowed his mount to stride forward in the middle stages and apply more pressure to the leader My Almanac (R. Mason) when it had become apparent that that horse had slowed the pace of the race considerably. M. Hughes stated that La Marianne was only having its second start over 1800m and with the blinkers on today felt that, whilst the horse had over-raced in the early stages, it was best to give the mare an opportunity to settle as to afford it every chance to run the distance out. He added that he was able to make ground on the leader approaching the 450m and upon straightening was within a length of My Almanac. M. Hughes further added that La Marianne failed to respond to his riding as anticipated in the straight and in his opinion was better suited to shorter distances.
Race 2:
Maiden Handicap - 1200m
1st - Tanzill; 2nd - Moubassin; 3rd - Go Rainey
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Michael Lakey: “He’s got a bad constitution. He is a finicky eater. He always appears stressed and fired up. That’s him though. It’s got nothing to do with race-day. He’s the same at track-work. A friend of mine saw him in the ring and asked how anybody could put money on him.
“He got away with it today, but it will cost him somewhere along the way. It might even stop him. He can improve I suppose. In fact he will have to if he is going to make it much further.”
Jockey Tony Pattillo: “He gives the impression that he could go on with it. He gives you a nice feel. But he does need to get his brain right first. He’s got plenty to work out.”
Tanzill was having his third start. It was his first run since being gelded.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
We’re All In It (R. Wiggins) was slow to begin. Chintz (C. Kearney) jumped away awkwardly. Moubassin (S. Cormack) shifted out under pressure over the concluding stages.
Race 3:
F&M Class 1 Handicap - 1400m
1st - My Counsel; 2nd - Craiglea Symphony; 3rd - Zigalong
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Brian Smith originally wanted to wait until Melbourne Cup day to race this horse. A change of plan and the mare suddenly has two wins to her credit before the Cup was run. We’ve been talking for weeks about Smith’s telling strike rate this season, and we are talking about it because it has become something of a constant from one meeting to another . As if that fact needed any emphasis, Smith struck again at Eagle Farm at the next meeting, this time with Malandrina on Melbourne Cup day.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Gracemere (M. Heagney) had to be steadied shortly after the start when tightened for room between Zigalong (D. Craven) and Xaar Crazy (K. Wharton), which shifted in. Passing the 800m Palace Party (J. Wood) was tightened for room by Craiglea Symphony (A. Badger), which had commenced to over-race and shifted in when being restrained. A short distance later Craiglea Symphony, which continued to over-race, shifted out and made contact with Body Double (A. Pattillo). Craiglea Symphony and Gracemere were inclined to lay in when placed under pressure in the home straight.
Race 4:
C,G & E Class 1 Handicap - 1400m
1st - Octahedron; 2nd - Siege; 3rd - Swift Leo
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Geoff Burns: “We bought him as an unraced three-year-old from New Zealand. He showed ability from the start and he has been a pleasure to train. Look at him. He’s so calm. Just a lovely horse. So far, he doesn’t know how to run a bad race. We are just slowly building him up in distance. He’ll get over ground for sure.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Ready To Rise (S. Cormack) raced three wide throughout. J. Piper, the rider of Carry On Kenzie, was reprimanded under AR. 137(a) for allowing her mount to shift in near the 650m resulting in Swift Leo (R. McMahon) having to be steadied. Octahedron (B. Pengelly) laid in under pressure over the concluding stages of the event. A post-race veterinary examination of Carry On Kenzie (J. Piper) failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 5:
4yo and up Maiden Handicap - 1600m
1st - Stiletto Heels; 2nd - Red Treasure; 3rd - Probability
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Jockey Tony Pattillo (who secured a double with this win to take the day’s riding honours): “I’ve ridden him before and had some luck on him. We ran into a couple of places. He probably should have got a result before this but at least he rectified that today. I was very happy to come here today. I only had four rides, but it was a good book of rides and to get two winners is quite satisfying.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Trainer T. Gillespie was fined $100 under AR. 140A for presenting Cinquacasino to race with incorrect gear. J. Piper was fined $200 under AR. 92(12) for failing to claim her full allowance on Shreps. Tyrconnell (P. Wolfgram) and The Traps Are Set (M. Heagney) over-raced in the early and middle stages. Leaving the 1200m Shreps (J. Piper), which had commenced to over-race, shifted out when being restrained taking Smartazariz (R. Wiggins) wider on the track. Cinquacasino, Smartazariz and All The Jays (K. Forrester) raced wide for the majority of the event.
Race 6:
Class 4 Handicap - 1400m
1st - Eleventh Command; 2nd – Chaufuhr; 3rd - Vargas Girl
WINNER FEEDBACK:
This race provided a stirring, stride for stride battle for the honours between the Chris Dawson trained Eleventh Command and the Bruce McLachlan trained Chaufuhr, with the former prevailing by a narrow margin. Eleventh Command, who was ridden with winning determination by Kelvin Wharton, had to fight every inch of the way to earn the fifth win of his career.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Chaufuhr (S. Cormack) over-raced for a short distance near the 800m. Luna Pride (S. Bogenhuber) lost its near-side fore plate in running.
Race 7:
Class 2 Handicap - 1200m
1st – Geebeetee; 2nd - Eye Eye Silver; 3rd - Cuban Dancer
WINNER FEEDBACK:
After being beaten by narrow margins in two earlier races the Bruce McLachlan / Sean Cormack combination made no mistake in the last race when Geebeetee returned to his best form in his second run back from a spell to earn the third win of his career.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
As B. Pengelly was to be overweight, C. Reith was substituted as the rider of Cuban Dancer. B. Pengelly was fined $200 under AR. 120(b). Berani Merah Jambu (J. Wood) jumped away awkwardly and lost considerable ground. On Ice (K. Wharton) and Fielding (A. Merritt) raced wide for the majority of the event. Goyousoandso (N. Thomas) over-raced for a short distance leaving the 900m. When questioned regarding the seemingly disappointing performance of Guissepino jockey R. Wiggins stated that the mare travelled well during the event, however failed to stretch out when placed under pressure. R. Wiggins was of the opinion that the mare appreciates more give in the ground than today's surface. A post-race veterinary examination of Guissepino failed to reveal any abnormalities. On Ice (K. Wharton) lost its near-side hind plate in running.
Monday, November 3, 2008
TOUGH TIMES FOR LES ROSS
A training career of twenty-one years ended in disillusionment at Ipswich last Thursday when Les Ross left the track for the last time in his capacity as a racehorse trainer.
The fact that his only runner on the day came back a winner did little to ease the stress. It wasn’t even a bitter-sweet moment. Ross was devastated at having to leave the only world he has known for the last twenty-six years, five as a jockey and twenty-one years as a trainer (eight of those in Brisbane)... and angry at the situation that forced his demise.
“I don’t drink. I don’t smoke. I’m absolutely anti-drugs. The closest I’m been to drugs is aspro-clear,” said Ross. “So how bad am I for the industry? But the way they treat you, I don’t know if they want us in the game anymore.”
Ross was referring to a sad saga in his life when the ‘they’ that Ross refers to, the racing stewards, revoked his training license for a period of six months following the dismissal of his appeal against a guilty verdict regarding the elevated bicarb reading recorded by Pinelope, a horse in Ross’s care, after it had finished fourth in a race at Eagle Farm on August 13. The sentence came into effect on Sunday, November 2 after an appeal by Ross to have the decision overturned was dismissed.
“I don’t know how the horse got an elevated reading,” continued Ross. “There are bicarbs in all feeds. Whatever got into the horse’s system got into the horse’s system. It wasn’t put there deliberately.
"At the start I was even convinced that they had the wrong horse. That’s why they called for a DNA sample. There was another trainer (Gary Bein) on the same charge. He just put his hand up and copped it. He got four months. I got six months. The more I argued the worse things seemed to get for me.
“But I had to question the way things were handled. The news that I supposedly had a positive swap was leaked and people were talking about it before I’d been informed. People don’t know this, but two stewards had to stand down from the enquiry because of the way things were being handled. How angry would you be if you found out about things that way. It was very disappointing.
“I think the information thing violated procedure. The fact that they had to do a second test to confirm they had the right horse also puts a question mark against whether proper procedure was followed there was well. If everything was done correctly, surely they would know they had the right horse. So I’m a bit dirty about the DNA episode.
“I’m just dirty about the whole game right now, I guess. I think the whole thing was handled badly and the charge should have been chucked out. “My only other ‘índiscretion’ in the last eighteen months was when I treated a horse for colic and the vet assured me the horse would be clear by the time it raced – and it wasn’t. So I picked up a $2000 fine there. Apart from that my record is clean.
“Yet the stewards can make a decision, hand me a six month disqualification, which devastates my life. I’ve got four kids. This is what I do. What am I and the missus supposed to do now. I told the stewards, six weeks or six months, it’s the same thing. It means my career’s over.
“I guess at least I can say that, back in 1988 my first runner came back a winner and now my last runner was a winner. Not many people can say that about their training careers. Not that it means much to anyone in my situation. I’m clutching at straws trying to find something good.
“The horses are gone now. You know people ask whether my owners won’t stick with me if I come back. Owners start off thinking that way and say all of the right things, but when push comes to shove, life must go on for them and the horses have to go to somebody else.
“By the time I would be due to return, I could hardly go and ask for my horses back. I wouldn’t in fact - and I simply can’t start all over again. The bad part of the whole horse transfer business is that I’ve been exposed to more nonsense with some owners disputing some payments that are due. They know I’m over a barrel so it’s not a very pleasant situation.
“She’s A Mountain (the Ipswich winner) was my last runner. Bellegal, who won at the Sunshine Coast on Friday was my horse. You know, it’s a very emotional time watching what is happening around me.
“But that’s it for me. I feel so badly treated. I feel I’m being told I’m not welcome and I’m not going to go where I not wanted.
“I won’t come back as a matter of principle now. I disagree with so much that has happened, I can never put myself in this position again. Maybe I’ll leave an option open to come back and work for someone, sometime in the future, I can’t guarantee I won’t do that.
“I know I’m talking while under a fair amount of pressure, but what is certain is that I really can’t come back as a trainer. The disqualification decision has put an end to that part of my life.”
For the record, Les Ross was charged under Rule AR.178 which states:
When any horse that has been brought to a racecourse for the purpose of engaging in a race and a prohibited substance is detected in any sample taken from it prior to or following its running in any race, the trainer and any other person who was in charge of such horse at any relevant time may be punished.
The threshold for the reading with regard to the Pinelope case was 36,00. There was a 1.00 allowance above that, ie a reading of 37.00 would have been deemed acceptable. Pinelope recorded a reading of 37.8, with a second reading coming in at 38.2.
Ross was found guilty of the charge and he was disqualified for six months.
The fact that his only runner on the day came back a winner did little to ease the stress. It wasn’t even a bitter-sweet moment. Ross was devastated at having to leave the only world he has known for the last twenty-six years, five as a jockey and twenty-one years as a trainer (eight of those in Brisbane)... and angry at the situation that forced his demise.
“I don’t drink. I don’t smoke. I’m absolutely anti-drugs. The closest I’m been to drugs is aspro-clear,” said Ross. “So how bad am I for the industry? But the way they treat you, I don’t know if they want us in the game anymore.”
Ross was referring to a sad saga in his life when the ‘they’ that Ross refers to, the racing stewards, revoked his training license for a period of six months following the dismissal of his appeal against a guilty verdict regarding the elevated bicarb reading recorded by Pinelope, a horse in Ross’s care, after it had finished fourth in a race at Eagle Farm on August 13. The sentence came into effect on Sunday, November 2 after an appeal by Ross to have the decision overturned was dismissed.
“I don’t know how the horse got an elevated reading,” continued Ross. “There are bicarbs in all feeds. Whatever got into the horse’s system got into the horse’s system. It wasn’t put there deliberately.
"At the start I was even convinced that they had the wrong horse. That’s why they called for a DNA sample. There was another trainer (Gary Bein) on the same charge. He just put his hand up and copped it. He got four months. I got six months. The more I argued the worse things seemed to get for me.
“But I had to question the way things were handled. The news that I supposedly had a positive swap was leaked and people were talking about it before I’d been informed. People don’t know this, but two stewards had to stand down from the enquiry because of the way things were being handled. How angry would you be if you found out about things that way. It was very disappointing.
“I think the information thing violated procedure. The fact that they had to do a second test to confirm they had the right horse also puts a question mark against whether proper procedure was followed there was well. If everything was done correctly, surely they would know they had the right horse. So I’m a bit dirty about the DNA episode.
“I’m just dirty about the whole game right now, I guess. I think the whole thing was handled badly and the charge should have been chucked out. “My only other ‘índiscretion’ in the last eighteen months was when I treated a horse for colic and the vet assured me the horse would be clear by the time it raced – and it wasn’t. So I picked up a $2000 fine there. Apart from that my record is clean.
“Yet the stewards can make a decision, hand me a six month disqualification, which devastates my life. I’ve got four kids. This is what I do. What am I and the missus supposed to do now. I told the stewards, six weeks or six months, it’s the same thing. It means my career’s over.
“I guess at least I can say that, back in 1988 my first runner came back a winner and now my last runner was a winner. Not many people can say that about their training careers. Not that it means much to anyone in my situation. I’m clutching at straws trying to find something good.
“The horses are gone now. You know people ask whether my owners won’t stick with me if I come back. Owners start off thinking that way and say all of the right things, but when push comes to shove, life must go on for them and the horses have to go to somebody else.
“By the time I would be due to return, I could hardly go and ask for my horses back. I wouldn’t in fact - and I simply can’t start all over again. The bad part of the whole horse transfer business is that I’ve been exposed to more nonsense with some owners disputing some payments that are due. They know I’m over a barrel so it’s not a very pleasant situation.
“She’s A Mountain (the Ipswich winner) was my last runner. Bellegal, who won at the Sunshine Coast on Friday was my horse. You know, it’s a very emotional time watching what is happening around me.
“But that’s it for me. I feel so badly treated. I feel I’m being told I’m not welcome and I’m not going to go where I not wanted.
“I won’t come back as a matter of principle now. I disagree with so much that has happened, I can never put myself in this position again. Maybe I’ll leave an option open to come back and work for someone, sometime in the future, I can’t guarantee I won’t do that.
“I know I’m talking while under a fair amount of pressure, but what is certain is that I really can’t come back as a trainer. The disqualification decision has put an end to that part of my life.”
For the record, Les Ross was charged under Rule AR.178 which states:
When any horse that has been brought to a racecourse for the purpose of engaging in a race and a prohibited substance is detected in any sample taken from it prior to or following its running in any race, the trainer and any other person who was in charge of such horse at any relevant time may be punished.
The threshold for the reading with regard to the Pinelope case was 36,00. There was a 1.00 allowance above that, ie a reading of 37.00 would have been deemed acceptable. Pinelope recorded a reading of 37.8, with a second reading coming in at 38.2.
Ross was found guilty of the charge and he was disqualified for six months.
DOOMBEN REVIEW (SAT, NOV 1)
A review of the meeting held at Doomben on Saturday, November 1.
The Stradbroke runner-up Hard To Catch underlined his class with a clear-cut victory under the steadying burden of 60.5kg in an Open Handicap in which he gave his rivals between 6.5kg and 9.5kg at the weights.
Glen Colless rode Hard To Catch, who was one of four winners on the day for the highly talented rider. Colless’s half -the-card haul improved on his treble at last weekend’s metropolitan meeting.
Falvelon further boosted his reputation as a stallion when he sired three winners (Doonbah Star, Powerful Light and Fangles) on the card. Doonbah Star was completing a hat trick of wins, Powerful Light trounced her opposition in a most impressive debut while Fangles was winning for the fourth time in his last six starts.
On a more solemn note, apprentice jockey Amy Taylor’s crashing fall from Steal The Cash in the opening race on the card gave us all a reminder of the dangerous side of the game.
The downside of the sport was exacerbated by the performance of the medical staff in the ambulance which follows the runners every race for just such an eventuality. There appeared to be little or no urgency to get to the stricken Taylor, who lay motionless on the track for too long a time before receiving attention. That a concerned race-club official was able to run from the mounting yard and get to Taylor as quickly as the medics in the ambulance, highlights the latter’s dawdling pace.
Safety in racing is one area where standards and actions have to be maintained at the highest order. The example demonstrated in public at Doomben on Saturday was simply not good enough.
Race 1:
3yo QTIS Handicap - 1350m
1st - Doonbah Star; 2nd - Jamelden Cat; 3rd - Left Standing
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Trevor Bailey: “This is the cherry on top for the week. I’ve had five winners from six starters this week. I’ve always had a big opinion of this horse, but they’ve still got to put it in on the track before you can be sure you’ve got something going for you. And even then you know, winning at the Gold Coast is one thing, taking on a city class field is another. I brought him here to see where we are going and to find out more. He won like I thought he could, but he still had to put the result on the board to confirm that ability.
“He’s just a beautiful horse. Look at him – and he’s got a temperament to match. After training gallops I wait for him at the gap and he comes running back to me and then stops right there, just a couple of inches from my face, and he waits there till I say something. He’s genuinely a pleasure to train.”
Jockey Terry Treichel: “His last three wins have been huge. (Doonbah Star completed a hat trick with this win) He’s a bit of a freak. He did it easy today. I just settled him. Then, when I gave him a dig he took off. I’ll be following him to keep the ride, that’s for sure.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Steal The Cash (A. Taylor) jumped away awkwardly.
Jockey T. Treichel, the rider of Doonbah Star, was found guilty of a charge of careless riding under AR. 137(a), the careless riding being that near the 1300m he permitted his mount to shift in when insufficiently clear of The Beast (G. Colless), which in turn was taken in tightening the running of Steal The Cash, which had to be checked and lost its position. Steal The Cash then shifted in and hampered Vintage Mo (C. McIver), which shifted in and hampered Jamelden Cat (S. Cormack). T. Treichel's licence to ride in races was suspended for a period of nine meetings, with the term of suspension to commence at midnight on Wednesday, 5 November and expire at midnight on Wednesday, 19 November 2008.
Approaching the 1200m Steal The Cash, which was over-racing, had to be steadied off the heels of Jamelden Cat. The Beast and Steal The Cash over-raced in the early stages. Mr Orient raced wide for the majority of the event.
An inquiry into Steal The Cash falling and dislodging its rider passing the 200m was adjourned to a time and date to be fixed to enable apprentice A. Taylor to give evidence. A post-race veterinary examination of Steal the Cash revealed that the gelding had sustained two lacerations to the near side lower nose.
When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of The Beast jockey G. Colless stated that he was unable to offer any excuses other than that the horse had a tendency to over-race in the early and middle stages. He added that the horse was inclined to hang in from after passing the 450m. Trainer A. Bailey advised stewards that he was disappointed with the horse's performance and undertook to have the horse vetted in the days subsequent to the event and would inform stewards of the results of the examination. A post-race veterinary examination of The Beast failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 2:
2yo QTIS H'CAP - 1010m
1st - Powerful Light; 2nd - Brazilian Princess; 3rd - Melrina Miss
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Helen Page: “We knew that she had the speed. She led all the way in a barrier trial. Good to put it all together like that in a race as well.”
Apprentice jockey Matthew Palmer: “She just ran them off their feet. I think she was just ahead of them in terms of education and that came through in the race. She’s got very impressive speed early and the nice thing about that is you don’t have to gas him, he does it naturally.”
This win put Palmer on top of the Apprentice Jockeys Metropolitan Premiership table, one win ahead of Amy Taylor.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
The start was delayed when Dual Chamber proved very difficult to load. Trainer M. Thexton was advised that she must obtain a further barrier certificate for Dual Chamber before it is permitted to race. Big Tony raced greenly for the majority of the event. Street Sign (P. Wolfgram) and Galactic Trooper (A. Coome) raced wide throughout. Near the 600m Dual Chamber shifted out of its own accord and had to be steadied off the heels of Galactic Trooper.
Race 3:
1MW Handicap - 1200m
1st - Red Sphere; 2nd - Chabeli; 3rd - Catchit
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Stable spokesman Scott Morrisey: “He’s got a very good first-up record and he has been training sensationally.” (This was Red Sphere’s first run for six months). “He had a good barrier, a great run in the race and a top jockey. It all fitted together today.”
Jockey Glen Colless: “He runs good fresh and with three leaders going out to set it up for him, he just got a lovely run, didn’t he?”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Pedro’s Amazing (P. Wolfgram) and Snow Destiny (K. Wharton) were slow to begin. Catchit (M. Radecker) jumped away awkwardly. Catchit raced three wide throughout.
Race 4:
Open Handicap - 1615m
1st - Hard To Catch; 2nd - Showify; 3rd - Jujulio
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Pat Duff: “It was yet another great ride by Glen (Colless) – and it’s always good to have him on your horse – but, with all due respect to Glen, I think I could have won on him today. It was his race. It was my mistake he underperformed last time - as I reported to the Stewards afterwards.
“He came back from Sydney and I gave him an easy week. Then we got rain on the Thursday which impacted on his work. I thought I could get away with it and he would be right to race, but I was wrong. It was purely my mistake.
“You can cope with a big weight from an inside draw, because you don’t have to chase and the horse can run its own race. (Hard To Catch carried 60.5kg). This was his true form. Not many horse win $1 million racing in Queensland. That’s how good he is.”
Jockey Glen Colless: “At best he was always going to have a couple of lengths on them on class alone. He got a perfect run and the result was never in doubt. I’d never ridden him before this. Maybe I can get on him again next time.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Ostras raced wide in the early stages. Crowning Force was held up for clear running inside the final 100m. Inside the final 50m Prosecution was obliged to race in restricted room between Crowning Force, which was held up, and Little Stranger (Michael Palmer), which shifted in slightly. A post-race veterinary examination of Ostras failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 5:
Class 6 Handicap (Mares) - 1350m
1st – Nepro; 2nd – Moppett; 3rd - Mossvana
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Kate Gardner, partner to trainer Matt Kropp: “She’s always had a problem drawing a decent barrier. She’s had shocking luck with that ... and she’s a horse that likes to run handy, so it makes a big difference to her. The time she finished second she had a five draw. This time she jumped from barrier seven. Those are the two lowest barrier draws she’s had in a long time, and she’s produced a result on both occasions.
“No, Matt (Kropp) is not here. He’ll be sorry he missed it but he’s gone off fishing near Port Douglas. He won’t know about it yet. I can’t call him. He’s out of range.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
O’Tonda (C. Reith) jumped away awkwardly and lost ground. Icedane (S. Drake) blundered on jumping away. Near the 1100m Russeting (C. McIver) had to be steadied when tightened for room by Nepro (A. Spinks) which was taken in slightly by Miz Winfrey (R. McMahon). Near the 1000m Icedane improved up on to the heels of Charvicky (A. Coome) and had to be steadied. When the pace steadied near the 800m Mossvana (Michael Palmer), My First Affair (S. Seamer), Miz Winfrey, Nepro, Gun Belle (Matthew Palmer) and Russeting all had to be steadied to varying degrees. Miz Winfrey, which shifted out when racing three wide, pushed forward to obtain the lead near the 700m. Apprentice M. Hellyer, the rider of Michelle Cafea, was reprimanded under AR. 137(d) for excessively slowing the pace near the 800m. Gun Belle and Kenshe (R. Wiggins) were obliged to race wide for the majority of the event. Russeting was held up for clear running until near the 200m. Inside the final 50m Icedane had difficulty obtaining clear running.
Race 6:
E&G Class 6 Handicap - 1350m
1st – Fangles; 2nd – Rockem; 3rd - Intramuros
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Stephen Jones: “Glen said to me beforehand that there was no speed in the race so he thought he should go forward. I said to him, ‘mate, you’re the one riding winners, you’ll get no argument from me.’ Glen said our horse has got speed so why not use it. I just let him do it his way. He rated the horse beautifully. It was a perfect ride.”
Jockey Glen Colless: “I mentioned to Steve that I thought there wouldn’t be speed on and that if I went to the front I might be able to dictate things. Everything worked out perfectly.”
The track preference of the winner should also be noted here as it arguably played a significant role in the result. Fangles has now won three out of five starts at this track and is two from two over the track and distance.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Rockem (R. Goltz) stood flat-footed as the gates opened and lost ground. Mr Doyle (B. Pengelly) raced wide throughout. Rockem laid out from passing the 800m until shortly after straightening and was then held up for clear running in the early stages of the straight. S. Cormack, the rider of More On The Toe, accidentally dropped his whip near the 150m.
When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of Mr Doyle , jockey B. Pengelly stated that the horse, from its wide alley today, was unable to obtain any position better than three wide mid-field, however when placed under pressure approaching the home turn failed to respond to his riding. He added that in his opinion the horse felt flat. Trainer P. Balzen advised that in his opinion the horse may have come to the end of its preparation today and will be sent for an immediate spell. A post-race veterinary examination of Mr Doyle failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 7:
Open Handicap - 1200m
1st - Bold Reason; 2nd - Black Ink; 3rd - Heart Of The Citi
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Jockey Brad Pengelly: “He appreciated the speed in the race which helped him to get home well. I’ve never ridden him before. I’ve ridden against him a good few times and it was a pleasure to be on him today.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Shortly after the start Stood Up (Michael Palmer) was placed in restricted room between Black Ink (J. Byrne) and Vocalic (P. Wolfgram), which shifted in despite the efforts of its rider. Near the 800m Messiaen (Matthew Palmer) was obliged to race in restricted room inside Mr Aristos (W. Clasohm) for a short distance. Heart Of The Citi (M. Radecker) raced wide throughout. In the early stages of the straight until near the 200m Mr Aristos was held up for clear running. Pepperwood (C. McIver) was held up for clear running until after passing the 100m. Between the 100m and the 50m Blood ‘N’Bone (R. Wiggins) had difficulty obtaining clear running.
Stewards questioned apprentice C. McIver regarding his ride on Pepperwood, especially from shortly after entering the straight. Apprentice McIver stated that his instructions were to let the horse settle in the early stages and search for clear running in the straight. He added that after obtaining a position towards the rear of the field in the early stages, the horse raced keenly in the middle stages and near the 500m improved on to the heels of Black Ink and had to be steadied. He further added that he elected to stay close to the rail in the straight, hoping for an opportunity to present itself to the inside of Tellasecret (A. Spinks), however no run eventuated and he was unable to obtain clear running over the concluding stages of the event. Trainer L. Birchley confirmed the instructions and stated to stewards that he was satisfied with apprentice C. McIver's handling of Pepperwood.
Race 8:
Class 6 QTIS Plate - 2020m
1st - Regal Gaze; 2nd - Grand Corso; 3rd - Derry City
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Brian Smith: “I keep on shaking my head at the run I’m having. I don’t remember having a hot streak for this long before.”
Jockey Glen Colless whose win on Regal Gaze meant he had ridden four winners on the day, surpassing the treble he rode at last weekend’s meeting. “I’m just enjoying having a bit of luck. You get on the right ones and they make you look good.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
As G. Baker was injured, J. Byrne was substituted as the rider of La Zeel. Stewards permitted J. Byrne to ride that horse half a kilogram overweight. Palace Lover, which was fractious in the barriers, was a late scratching at 5.26 p.m. by order of the stewards acting on veterinary advice. Trainer M. Nolan was advised that he must obtain a further barrier certificate prior to the horse's next start. Great Honour (R. Wiggins), which was obliged to race wide in the early stages, pushed forward and obtained the lead near the 1000m. Near the 600m Uncle Jan (A. Spinks) had to be checked when tightened for room between Great Honour, which when tiring shifted out slightly, and Regal Gaze, which shifted in. G. Colless, the rider of Regal Gaze, was severely reprimanded and advised that he was being given the benefit of a grave doubt as to whether he was fully culpable. Near the 500m Kentish Rose (C. McIver) was held up and had to be steadied off the heels of the tiring Great Honour, and again had to be checked passing the 400m. Leges Opinio was held up for clear running from the 500m until shortly after entering the straight. Near the 400m Uncle Jan again had to be checked when tightened for room between Tariki (P. Hammersley), which was taken out by the tiring Great Honour, and Monchenglabach (S. Cormack), which was taken in slightly by Supreme Agenda (K. Wharton).
The Stradbroke runner-up Hard To Catch underlined his class with a clear-cut victory under the steadying burden of 60.5kg in an Open Handicap in which he gave his rivals between 6.5kg and 9.5kg at the weights.
Glen Colless rode Hard To Catch, who was one of four winners on the day for the highly talented rider. Colless’s half -the-card haul improved on his treble at last weekend’s metropolitan meeting.
Falvelon further boosted his reputation as a stallion when he sired three winners (Doonbah Star, Powerful Light and Fangles) on the card. Doonbah Star was completing a hat trick of wins, Powerful Light trounced her opposition in a most impressive debut while Fangles was winning for the fourth time in his last six starts.
On a more solemn note, apprentice jockey Amy Taylor’s crashing fall from Steal The Cash in the opening race on the card gave us all a reminder of the dangerous side of the game.
The downside of the sport was exacerbated by the performance of the medical staff in the ambulance which follows the runners every race for just such an eventuality. There appeared to be little or no urgency to get to the stricken Taylor, who lay motionless on the track for too long a time before receiving attention. That a concerned race-club official was able to run from the mounting yard and get to Taylor as quickly as the medics in the ambulance, highlights the latter’s dawdling pace.
Safety in racing is one area where standards and actions have to be maintained at the highest order. The example demonstrated in public at Doomben on Saturday was simply not good enough.
Race 1:
3yo QTIS Handicap - 1350m
1st - Doonbah Star; 2nd - Jamelden Cat; 3rd - Left Standing
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Trevor Bailey: “This is the cherry on top for the week. I’ve had five winners from six starters this week. I’ve always had a big opinion of this horse, but they’ve still got to put it in on the track before you can be sure you’ve got something going for you. And even then you know, winning at the Gold Coast is one thing, taking on a city class field is another. I brought him here to see where we are going and to find out more. He won like I thought he could, but he still had to put the result on the board to confirm that ability.
“He’s just a beautiful horse. Look at him – and he’s got a temperament to match. After training gallops I wait for him at the gap and he comes running back to me and then stops right there, just a couple of inches from my face, and he waits there till I say something. He’s genuinely a pleasure to train.”
Jockey Terry Treichel: “His last three wins have been huge. (Doonbah Star completed a hat trick with this win) He’s a bit of a freak. He did it easy today. I just settled him. Then, when I gave him a dig he took off. I’ll be following him to keep the ride, that’s for sure.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Steal The Cash (A. Taylor) jumped away awkwardly.
Jockey T. Treichel, the rider of Doonbah Star, was found guilty of a charge of careless riding under AR. 137(a), the careless riding being that near the 1300m he permitted his mount to shift in when insufficiently clear of The Beast (G. Colless), which in turn was taken in tightening the running of Steal The Cash, which had to be checked and lost its position. Steal The Cash then shifted in and hampered Vintage Mo (C. McIver), which shifted in and hampered Jamelden Cat (S. Cormack). T. Treichel's licence to ride in races was suspended for a period of nine meetings, with the term of suspension to commence at midnight on Wednesday, 5 November and expire at midnight on Wednesday, 19 November 2008.
Approaching the 1200m Steal The Cash, which was over-racing, had to be steadied off the heels of Jamelden Cat. The Beast and Steal The Cash over-raced in the early stages. Mr Orient raced wide for the majority of the event.
An inquiry into Steal The Cash falling and dislodging its rider passing the 200m was adjourned to a time and date to be fixed to enable apprentice A. Taylor to give evidence. A post-race veterinary examination of Steal the Cash revealed that the gelding had sustained two lacerations to the near side lower nose.
When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of The Beast jockey G. Colless stated that he was unable to offer any excuses other than that the horse had a tendency to over-race in the early and middle stages. He added that the horse was inclined to hang in from after passing the 450m. Trainer A. Bailey advised stewards that he was disappointed with the horse's performance and undertook to have the horse vetted in the days subsequent to the event and would inform stewards of the results of the examination. A post-race veterinary examination of The Beast failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 2:
2yo QTIS H'CAP - 1010m
1st - Powerful Light; 2nd - Brazilian Princess; 3rd - Melrina Miss
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Helen Page: “We knew that she had the speed. She led all the way in a barrier trial. Good to put it all together like that in a race as well.”
Apprentice jockey Matthew Palmer: “She just ran them off their feet. I think she was just ahead of them in terms of education and that came through in the race. She’s got very impressive speed early and the nice thing about that is you don’t have to gas him, he does it naturally.”
This win put Palmer on top of the Apprentice Jockeys Metropolitan Premiership table, one win ahead of Amy Taylor.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
The start was delayed when Dual Chamber proved very difficult to load. Trainer M. Thexton was advised that she must obtain a further barrier certificate for Dual Chamber before it is permitted to race. Big Tony raced greenly for the majority of the event. Street Sign (P. Wolfgram) and Galactic Trooper (A. Coome) raced wide throughout. Near the 600m Dual Chamber shifted out of its own accord and had to be steadied off the heels of Galactic Trooper.
Race 3:
1MW Handicap - 1200m
1st - Red Sphere; 2nd - Chabeli; 3rd - Catchit
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Stable spokesman Scott Morrisey: “He’s got a very good first-up record and he has been training sensationally.” (This was Red Sphere’s first run for six months). “He had a good barrier, a great run in the race and a top jockey. It all fitted together today.”
Jockey Glen Colless: “He runs good fresh and with three leaders going out to set it up for him, he just got a lovely run, didn’t he?”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Pedro’s Amazing (P. Wolfgram) and Snow Destiny (K. Wharton) were slow to begin. Catchit (M. Radecker) jumped away awkwardly. Catchit raced three wide throughout.
Race 4:
Open Handicap - 1615m
1st - Hard To Catch; 2nd - Showify; 3rd - Jujulio
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Pat Duff: “It was yet another great ride by Glen (Colless) – and it’s always good to have him on your horse – but, with all due respect to Glen, I think I could have won on him today. It was his race. It was my mistake he underperformed last time - as I reported to the Stewards afterwards.
“He came back from Sydney and I gave him an easy week. Then we got rain on the Thursday which impacted on his work. I thought I could get away with it and he would be right to race, but I was wrong. It was purely my mistake.
“You can cope with a big weight from an inside draw, because you don’t have to chase and the horse can run its own race. (Hard To Catch carried 60.5kg). This was his true form. Not many horse win $1 million racing in Queensland. That’s how good he is.”
Jockey Glen Colless: “At best he was always going to have a couple of lengths on them on class alone. He got a perfect run and the result was never in doubt. I’d never ridden him before this. Maybe I can get on him again next time.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Ostras raced wide in the early stages. Crowning Force was held up for clear running inside the final 100m. Inside the final 50m Prosecution was obliged to race in restricted room between Crowning Force, which was held up, and Little Stranger (Michael Palmer), which shifted in slightly. A post-race veterinary examination of Ostras failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 5:
Class 6 Handicap (Mares) - 1350m
1st – Nepro; 2nd – Moppett; 3rd - Mossvana
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Kate Gardner, partner to trainer Matt Kropp: “She’s always had a problem drawing a decent barrier. She’s had shocking luck with that ... and she’s a horse that likes to run handy, so it makes a big difference to her. The time she finished second she had a five draw. This time she jumped from barrier seven. Those are the two lowest barrier draws she’s had in a long time, and she’s produced a result on both occasions.
“No, Matt (Kropp) is not here. He’ll be sorry he missed it but he’s gone off fishing near Port Douglas. He won’t know about it yet. I can’t call him. He’s out of range.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
O’Tonda (C. Reith) jumped away awkwardly and lost ground. Icedane (S. Drake) blundered on jumping away. Near the 1100m Russeting (C. McIver) had to be steadied when tightened for room by Nepro (A. Spinks) which was taken in slightly by Miz Winfrey (R. McMahon). Near the 1000m Icedane improved up on to the heels of Charvicky (A. Coome) and had to be steadied. When the pace steadied near the 800m Mossvana (Michael Palmer), My First Affair (S. Seamer), Miz Winfrey, Nepro, Gun Belle (Matthew Palmer) and Russeting all had to be steadied to varying degrees. Miz Winfrey, which shifted out when racing three wide, pushed forward to obtain the lead near the 700m. Apprentice M. Hellyer, the rider of Michelle Cafea, was reprimanded under AR. 137(d) for excessively slowing the pace near the 800m. Gun Belle and Kenshe (R. Wiggins) were obliged to race wide for the majority of the event. Russeting was held up for clear running until near the 200m. Inside the final 50m Icedane had difficulty obtaining clear running.
Race 6:
E&G Class 6 Handicap - 1350m
1st – Fangles; 2nd – Rockem; 3rd - Intramuros
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Stephen Jones: “Glen said to me beforehand that there was no speed in the race so he thought he should go forward. I said to him, ‘mate, you’re the one riding winners, you’ll get no argument from me.’ Glen said our horse has got speed so why not use it. I just let him do it his way. He rated the horse beautifully. It was a perfect ride.”
Jockey Glen Colless: “I mentioned to Steve that I thought there wouldn’t be speed on and that if I went to the front I might be able to dictate things. Everything worked out perfectly.”
The track preference of the winner should also be noted here as it arguably played a significant role in the result. Fangles has now won three out of five starts at this track and is two from two over the track and distance.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Rockem (R. Goltz) stood flat-footed as the gates opened and lost ground. Mr Doyle (B. Pengelly) raced wide throughout. Rockem laid out from passing the 800m until shortly after straightening and was then held up for clear running in the early stages of the straight. S. Cormack, the rider of More On The Toe, accidentally dropped his whip near the 150m.
When questioned regarding the disappointing performance of Mr Doyle , jockey B. Pengelly stated that the horse, from its wide alley today, was unable to obtain any position better than three wide mid-field, however when placed under pressure approaching the home turn failed to respond to his riding. He added that in his opinion the horse felt flat. Trainer P. Balzen advised that in his opinion the horse may have come to the end of its preparation today and will be sent for an immediate spell. A post-race veterinary examination of Mr Doyle failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 7:
Open Handicap - 1200m
1st - Bold Reason; 2nd - Black Ink; 3rd - Heart Of The Citi
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Jockey Brad Pengelly: “He appreciated the speed in the race which helped him to get home well. I’ve never ridden him before. I’ve ridden against him a good few times and it was a pleasure to be on him today.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Shortly after the start Stood Up (Michael Palmer) was placed in restricted room between Black Ink (J. Byrne) and Vocalic (P. Wolfgram), which shifted in despite the efforts of its rider. Near the 800m Messiaen (Matthew Palmer) was obliged to race in restricted room inside Mr Aristos (W. Clasohm) for a short distance. Heart Of The Citi (M. Radecker) raced wide throughout. In the early stages of the straight until near the 200m Mr Aristos was held up for clear running. Pepperwood (C. McIver) was held up for clear running until after passing the 100m. Between the 100m and the 50m Blood ‘N’Bone (R. Wiggins) had difficulty obtaining clear running.
Stewards questioned apprentice C. McIver regarding his ride on Pepperwood, especially from shortly after entering the straight. Apprentice McIver stated that his instructions were to let the horse settle in the early stages and search for clear running in the straight. He added that after obtaining a position towards the rear of the field in the early stages, the horse raced keenly in the middle stages and near the 500m improved on to the heels of Black Ink and had to be steadied. He further added that he elected to stay close to the rail in the straight, hoping for an opportunity to present itself to the inside of Tellasecret (A. Spinks), however no run eventuated and he was unable to obtain clear running over the concluding stages of the event. Trainer L. Birchley confirmed the instructions and stated to stewards that he was satisfied with apprentice C. McIver's handling of Pepperwood.
Race 8:
Class 6 QTIS Plate - 2020m
1st - Regal Gaze; 2nd - Grand Corso; 3rd - Derry City
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Brian Smith: “I keep on shaking my head at the run I’m having. I don’t remember having a hot streak for this long before.”
Jockey Glen Colless whose win on Regal Gaze meant he had ridden four winners on the day, surpassing the treble he rode at last weekend’s meeting. “I’m just enjoying having a bit of luck. You get on the right ones and they make you look good.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
As G. Baker was injured, J. Byrne was substituted as the rider of La Zeel. Stewards permitted J. Byrne to ride that horse half a kilogram overweight. Palace Lover, which was fractious in the barriers, was a late scratching at 5.26 p.m. by order of the stewards acting on veterinary advice. Trainer M. Nolan was advised that he must obtain a further barrier certificate prior to the horse's next start. Great Honour (R. Wiggins), which was obliged to race wide in the early stages, pushed forward and obtained the lead near the 1000m. Near the 600m Uncle Jan (A. Spinks) had to be checked when tightened for room between Great Honour, which when tiring shifted out slightly, and Regal Gaze, which shifted in. G. Colless, the rider of Regal Gaze, was severely reprimanded and advised that he was being given the benefit of a grave doubt as to whether he was fully culpable. Near the 500m Kentish Rose (C. McIver) was held up and had to be steadied off the heels of the tiring Great Honour, and again had to be checked passing the 400m. Leges Opinio was held up for clear running from the 500m until shortly after entering the straight. Near the 400m Uncle Jan again had to be checked when tightened for room between Tariki (P. Hammersley), which was taken out by the tiring Great Honour, and Monchenglabach (S. Cormack), which was taken in slightly by Supreme Agenda (K. Wharton).
Sunday, November 2, 2008
IPSWICH REVIEW (THURS, OCT 30)
A review of the meeting held at Ipswich on Thursday, October 30.
Race 1:
Class 5 3yo & Up Handicap - 800m.
1st - She's A Mountain; 2nd - Mary's Magique; 3rd - Mini Maizing
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Jockey Joshua Jones: “She wasn’t slow away or anything like that. She went back because I took her back. They were all racing for the lead and if I stayed where I was I would have been seven deep. I went back, but I wasn’t more than two lengths off the lead when we turned into the straight. I knew she had the form on them so I just pulled her out, switched to the outside, gave her a couple, and she finished off as her form suggested she would.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Jokingly (J. Murphy) and She’s A Mountain (J. Jones) came together and brushed on jumping away. Leaving the 600m, She’s A Mountain (J. Jones) had to be steadied off the heels of Rosie’s Boy (K. Wharton), which shifted in. Approaching the 400m, Rosie’s Boy hung out across the heels of Star Of Minto (R. Goltz) and had to be steadied. Jokingly raced wide for the majority of the event. Jokingly bled during the event. Trainer G. Livermore was advised that the gelding would now incur a 3 month bar from racing.
Race 2:
Maiden 3yo & Up Plate - 800m
1st – Kengrason; 2nd - Lethal Hayil; 3rd - Leapin Leana
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Jockey Laura Cheshire: “She’s got a bit of a wind problem so you can’t restrain her. You’ve got to let her roll. And she can do that. I’ve ridden her the last three times and she’s happy to lead. At Ballina she just got run down late. Then she wasn’t as good at Murwillumbah. The turns were too tight for her. Was much better here. I just sent her on her way and it was up to the others to peg her back, which, thankfully, they didn’t manage to do today.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
The start of this race was delayed after Hay Baby (K. Wharton) and Lethal Intent (J. Byrne) proved difficult to load.
Apprentice J. Brown, rider of Fireman, was found guilty of a charge of careless riding in that near the 500m she allowed her mount to shift in when insufficiently clear of Hay Baby (K. Wharton) and It Ain’t Me Babe (S. Drake), which resulted in Hay Baby and It Ain’t Me Babe being checked. Apprentice J. Brown was suspended from riding in races for a period by 8 meetings, to commence at midnight, 4 November and to expire at midnight, 15 November 2008.
Leapin Leana (J. Holder) and Lethal Intent raced wide for the majority of the event.
Race 3:
QTIS 3yo Maiden Plate - 1000m
1st – Zebakwe; 2nd – Zekeza; 3rd - Crackajack Fortune
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Ron McCrae: “He was all over the track last time (in his second start back in May). He could have won if he hadn’t had issues. He came back very shinny and I just put him out. He came back a different horse. He trialled very well and then railed beautifully today and just kicked away from them.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Trainer G. Cornish was fined $200 for negligence in amending the stable return for Polish County to add pacifiers when in fact he intended to add winkers. Stewards allowed Mr Cornish to amend the gear for the horse and allowed Polish County to race in winkers.
Apprentice M. Speers, rider of Flash Romeo, was found guilty of a charge of careless riding, in that shortly after the start he allowed his mount to shift in when insufficiently clear of Polish County (S. Drake), which resulted in Polish County being tightened on to the hind quarters of Gorvish (B. Evans) and having to be checked. M. Speers was suspended from riding in races for a period covered by 7 meetings, to commence at midnight, 4 November and to expire at midnight, 13 November 2008.
Leaving the 900m, Flash Romeo had to be steadied off the heels of Zebakwe (P. Hammersley), which was taken in by Zekeza (N. Thomas). N. Thomas, rider of Zekeza, was reprimanded and advised to exercise more care in similar circumstances. Zekeza was inclined to lay out approaching and rounding the home turn. Peak Princess (K. Wharton) raced wide for the majority of the event.
Race 4:
QTIS Maiden 3yo & Up Handicap - 1350m
1st – Quisatana; 2nd – Ensconce; 3rd - Crocodile Lass
WINNER FEEDBACK:
The Shane Scriven/Barry Baldwin combination has worked a treat at this track in recent times and the duo added another victory to their list of successes when Quisatana outlasted a game Ensconce to land her first victory in her fifth career start. The latter gave plenty of cheek all the way up the straight but Scriven coaxed that vital bit extra from his mount who edged away to win by a half-length margin.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Got The Cash (W. Clasohm) over-raced in the early stages and near the 1000m shifted out, inconveniencing Fly Misty (A. Spinks). Near the 300m, Straight Shooting improved up on to the heels of the tiring Argenta (C. Spry) and had to be steadied and alter course. Approaching the 200m, Straight Shooting was disappointed for a run between Arabian Moon (A. Merritt) and Mythical (A. Erhart) and as a consequence was obliged to alter course. Tanoshimi (L. Dittman) raced wide for the majority of the event. Stewards adjourned an inquiry into the reason for Argenta being presented to the enclosure wearing pacifiers to enable trainer R. Lipp to provide further evidence to the stewards.
Race 5:
Class 2 Handicap - 1690m
1st – Firegazer; 2nd – Auscoal; 3rd - La Mouette
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Ray Hawkswell: “I knew she must have been travelling well when Jason (Holder) made his move so early. He’s wouldn’t have done that if she wasn’t. That move set up the chase and the rest, as they say, is history.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
The Ultimate Act (A. Spinks) over-raced in the early stages. Auscoal and Dustmen (R. Hancock) raced wide for the majority of the event.
Race 6:
Class 1 Handicap - 1100m
1st - Larry's Song; 2nd - Regal Mountain; 3rd - Magnetic Appeal
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Tony Crane: “I’ve had him for quite a while now. He was a bit of a wayward horse and he came into the stable a bit light and he needed some improving so it’s taken a little while. We took him to Rockhampton two runs back and he finished a fair second. Last time out at the Sunshine Coast he got knocked all over the track. Didn’t finish that far back, but you could basically forget he went around. He was an emergency at Eagle Farm yesterday, but had to come out there. We fancied out chances too. Our only worry today was we thought it might just be a touch short, but Brad (Pengelly) rode him beautifully. He’s a genius mate. The best in town.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
The start of this race was delayed as a result of Broken Link (A. Pattillo) proving difficult to load. Larry’s Song (B. Pengelly) began awkwardly and shifted in, making contact with Regal Mountain (M. Speers). Princes Ginachenka (P. Hammersley) and Mythical King (J. Holder) came together on jumping away. Telbron Gold (K. Wharton) was inclined to hang out leaving the 500m. Near the 100m, Magnetic Appeal (D. Griffin) was tightened for room when racing between Larry’s Song (B. Pengelly) and Regal Mountain (M. Speers), which shifted out. Broken Link, Princes Ginachenka (P. Hammersley) and The Sixties (T. Pannell) raced wide for the majority of the event.
When questioned regarding the poor performance of Mythical King, J. Holder stated that the horse race poorly and felt flat throughout the race. Trainer T. Stevens confirmed his disappointment with the horse's performance and indicated it would be his intention to have further tests carried out on Mythical King in the immediate future. Stewards held the matter over pending the results of pathology tests. A post race veterinary examination of the gelding failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 7:
CG&E Class 3 Handicap - 1350m
1st - Rock Slide; 2nd - Magique Mine; 3rd - Dewabbit
WINNER FEEDBACK:
The Reg Fleming trained Rock Slide skipped clear early in the straight and maintained a resolute gallop all the way to the line to see off the late charge of Magique Mine and Dewabbit, who both stormed up to finish within a length of the hard-ridden winner.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Ela Mana Dane (S. Drake) and Dr Kah (A. Pattillo) were slow to begin. Ela Mana Dane (S. Drake) over-raced in the early stages and then raced wide for the remainder of the event.
Race 1:
Class 5 3yo & Up Handicap - 800m.
1st - She's A Mountain; 2nd - Mary's Magique; 3rd - Mini Maizing
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Jockey Joshua Jones: “She wasn’t slow away or anything like that. She went back because I took her back. They were all racing for the lead and if I stayed where I was I would have been seven deep. I went back, but I wasn’t more than two lengths off the lead when we turned into the straight. I knew she had the form on them so I just pulled her out, switched to the outside, gave her a couple, and she finished off as her form suggested she would.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Jokingly (J. Murphy) and She’s A Mountain (J. Jones) came together and brushed on jumping away. Leaving the 600m, She’s A Mountain (J. Jones) had to be steadied off the heels of Rosie’s Boy (K. Wharton), which shifted in. Approaching the 400m, Rosie’s Boy hung out across the heels of Star Of Minto (R. Goltz) and had to be steadied. Jokingly raced wide for the majority of the event. Jokingly bled during the event. Trainer G. Livermore was advised that the gelding would now incur a 3 month bar from racing.
Race 2:
Maiden 3yo & Up Plate - 800m
1st – Kengrason; 2nd - Lethal Hayil; 3rd - Leapin Leana
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Jockey Laura Cheshire: “She’s got a bit of a wind problem so you can’t restrain her. You’ve got to let her roll. And she can do that. I’ve ridden her the last three times and she’s happy to lead. At Ballina she just got run down late. Then she wasn’t as good at Murwillumbah. The turns were too tight for her. Was much better here. I just sent her on her way and it was up to the others to peg her back, which, thankfully, they didn’t manage to do today.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
The start of this race was delayed after Hay Baby (K. Wharton) and Lethal Intent (J. Byrne) proved difficult to load.
Apprentice J. Brown, rider of Fireman, was found guilty of a charge of careless riding in that near the 500m she allowed her mount to shift in when insufficiently clear of Hay Baby (K. Wharton) and It Ain’t Me Babe (S. Drake), which resulted in Hay Baby and It Ain’t Me Babe being checked. Apprentice J. Brown was suspended from riding in races for a period by 8 meetings, to commence at midnight, 4 November and to expire at midnight, 15 November 2008.
Leapin Leana (J. Holder) and Lethal Intent raced wide for the majority of the event.
Race 3:
QTIS 3yo Maiden Plate - 1000m
1st – Zebakwe; 2nd – Zekeza; 3rd - Crackajack Fortune
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Ron McCrae: “He was all over the track last time (in his second start back in May). He could have won if he hadn’t had issues. He came back very shinny and I just put him out. He came back a different horse. He trialled very well and then railed beautifully today and just kicked away from them.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Trainer G. Cornish was fined $200 for negligence in amending the stable return for Polish County to add pacifiers when in fact he intended to add winkers. Stewards allowed Mr Cornish to amend the gear for the horse and allowed Polish County to race in winkers.
Apprentice M. Speers, rider of Flash Romeo, was found guilty of a charge of careless riding, in that shortly after the start he allowed his mount to shift in when insufficiently clear of Polish County (S. Drake), which resulted in Polish County being tightened on to the hind quarters of Gorvish (B. Evans) and having to be checked. M. Speers was suspended from riding in races for a period covered by 7 meetings, to commence at midnight, 4 November and to expire at midnight, 13 November 2008.
Leaving the 900m, Flash Romeo had to be steadied off the heels of Zebakwe (P. Hammersley), which was taken in by Zekeza (N. Thomas). N. Thomas, rider of Zekeza, was reprimanded and advised to exercise more care in similar circumstances. Zekeza was inclined to lay out approaching and rounding the home turn. Peak Princess (K. Wharton) raced wide for the majority of the event.
Race 4:
QTIS Maiden 3yo & Up Handicap - 1350m
1st – Quisatana; 2nd – Ensconce; 3rd - Crocodile Lass
WINNER FEEDBACK:
The Shane Scriven/Barry Baldwin combination has worked a treat at this track in recent times and the duo added another victory to their list of successes when Quisatana outlasted a game Ensconce to land her first victory in her fifth career start. The latter gave plenty of cheek all the way up the straight but Scriven coaxed that vital bit extra from his mount who edged away to win by a half-length margin.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Got The Cash (W. Clasohm) over-raced in the early stages and near the 1000m shifted out, inconveniencing Fly Misty (A. Spinks). Near the 300m, Straight Shooting improved up on to the heels of the tiring Argenta (C. Spry) and had to be steadied and alter course. Approaching the 200m, Straight Shooting was disappointed for a run between Arabian Moon (A. Merritt) and Mythical (A. Erhart) and as a consequence was obliged to alter course. Tanoshimi (L. Dittman) raced wide for the majority of the event. Stewards adjourned an inquiry into the reason for Argenta being presented to the enclosure wearing pacifiers to enable trainer R. Lipp to provide further evidence to the stewards.
Race 5:
Class 2 Handicap - 1690m
1st – Firegazer; 2nd – Auscoal; 3rd - La Mouette
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Ray Hawkswell: “I knew she must have been travelling well when Jason (Holder) made his move so early. He’s wouldn’t have done that if she wasn’t. That move set up the chase and the rest, as they say, is history.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
The Ultimate Act (A. Spinks) over-raced in the early stages. Auscoal and Dustmen (R. Hancock) raced wide for the majority of the event.
Race 6:
Class 1 Handicap - 1100m
1st - Larry's Song; 2nd - Regal Mountain; 3rd - Magnetic Appeal
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Tony Crane: “I’ve had him for quite a while now. He was a bit of a wayward horse and he came into the stable a bit light and he needed some improving so it’s taken a little while. We took him to Rockhampton two runs back and he finished a fair second. Last time out at the Sunshine Coast he got knocked all over the track. Didn’t finish that far back, but you could basically forget he went around. He was an emergency at Eagle Farm yesterday, but had to come out there. We fancied out chances too. Our only worry today was we thought it might just be a touch short, but Brad (Pengelly) rode him beautifully. He’s a genius mate. The best in town.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
The start of this race was delayed as a result of Broken Link (A. Pattillo) proving difficult to load. Larry’s Song (B. Pengelly) began awkwardly and shifted in, making contact with Regal Mountain (M. Speers). Princes Ginachenka (P. Hammersley) and Mythical King (J. Holder) came together on jumping away. Telbron Gold (K. Wharton) was inclined to hang out leaving the 500m. Near the 100m, Magnetic Appeal (D. Griffin) was tightened for room when racing between Larry’s Song (B. Pengelly) and Regal Mountain (M. Speers), which shifted out. Broken Link, Princes Ginachenka (P. Hammersley) and The Sixties (T. Pannell) raced wide for the majority of the event.
When questioned regarding the poor performance of Mythical King, J. Holder stated that the horse race poorly and felt flat throughout the race. Trainer T. Stevens confirmed his disappointment with the horse's performance and indicated it would be his intention to have further tests carried out on Mythical King in the immediate future. Stewards held the matter over pending the results of pathology tests. A post race veterinary examination of the gelding failed to reveal any abnormalities.
Race 7:
CG&E Class 3 Handicap - 1350m
1st - Rock Slide; 2nd - Magique Mine; 3rd - Dewabbit
WINNER FEEDBACK:
The Reg Fleming trained Rock Slide skipped clear early in the straight and maintained a resolute gallop all the way to the line to see off the late charge of Magique Mine and Dewabbit, who both stormed up to finish within a length of the hard-ridden winner.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Ela Mana Dane (S. Drake) and Dr Kah (A. Pattillo) were slow to begin. Ela Mana Dane (S. Drake) over-raced in the early stages and then raced wide for the remainder of the event.
EAGLE FARM REVIEW (WED, OCT 29)
A review of the meeting held at Eagle Farm on Wednesday, October 29.
Race 1:
3yo CG&E Maiden Handicap - 1200m
1st - Rocking Rooney; 2nd - Social Cat; 3rd - De Dion Bouton
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Peter Balzen: “We thought we had a very nice horse at the start. He trialled well and we were offered $100 000 for him before he’s ever raced. The connections knocked back that offer. I mean knocked it back outright. The horse was never vetted or anything. It just wasn’t for sale.
“Then he ran a good third on his debut and we still felt we were on the right track. But he’s been disappointing since then. Last time they went too slow. Shave (Scriven) came in and was dirty with himself. He said he should have let him go instead of sitting playing jockeys with the rest of them. This time we thought we’d bring him back in distance and ride him back, hoping there would be some speed in the race which would allow him to come home well.”
Jockey Shane Scriven: “Yeah, he a funny horse. I rode him when he finished third in his first start and he looked a pretty useful sort, but he’s taken this long to find his feet. I was very happy where I was in the run and when he moved forward it looked like he was going to win easy. But when he hit the front he switched off and I had to keep reminding him that he wasn’t finished yet.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Lotachoc (P. Hammersley) was severely hampered on jumping away between A Scarletpimpernel (K. Pope) and De Dion Bouton (K. Wharton), which jumped away awkwardly and shifted in. Near the 1000m, De Dion Bouton (K. Wharton), which was over-racing, shifted out, forcing Super Moon (J. Byrne) wider on the track. Super Moon was then obliged to improve forward to obtain a position closer to the fence. De Dion Bouton continued to over-race for some distance. Passing the 500m, A Scarletpimpernel shifted out off the heels of Super Moon and in doing so forced Social Cat (M. Radecker) wider.
Race 2:
3yo Fillies Maiden Handicap - 1200m
1st - Yatala; 2nd - Plain Magic; 3rd – Tikit To Glory
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Tony Crane: “This is her second run for me. We thought she was good enough to win last time when she finished second. She didn’t quite handle the rain-effected ground and that cost her a bit. She was more comfortable with the ground today and going up in distance (from 1100m to 1200m) suited. She’s ideally looking for 1400m.”
Jockey: Brad Pengelly: “She needed the run last time (after a two month break and relocation). I thought she needed to improve and would improve and Tony (Crane) has got her to do just that. He’s a good trainer.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Rounding the home turn, Silver Whisper (S. Cormack) shifted out on to the heels of Jensway (M. Bennett) and had to be steadied. Approaching the 300m, Justly Proud (K. Wharton) improved on to the heels of the tiring Never Touched (R. McMahon) and had to be steadied. Silver Whisper (S. Cormack) raced greenly in the straight.A post race veterinary examination of Never Touched, which compounded in the straight, failed to reveal any significant abnormalities.
This win took Brad Pengelly to an outright lead at the top of the Jockeys Metropolitan Premiership ladder – a position he would hold until Glen Colless also lifted his total for the season to fifteen winners three races later.
Race 3:
Maiden 4yo & Up Handicap - 1200m
1st - Beautiful; 2nd - Knuckles; 3rd - Alpha Town
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Brian Smith: “What’s it like going to the races without having a winner?” (The Smith stable has been a regular winner for several weeks now).
“It’s my first win for the owners. She’s a nice looking mare isn’t she? Some would say ‘beautiful’. That’s how she got her name actually. (Co-owner) Lisa (Morton) phoned and asked how the horse was going. I said, ‘beautiful’. She said, ‘that’s what we’ll call it then.’ They couldn’t believe the name was still available.”
Jockey Ric McMahon: “She settled beautifully. She’s not all there in her action yet. She knows how to run but isn’t quite sure of herself.”
The run cost Ric McMahon time. The rider was found guilty of a careless riding charge (see Stewards Report Extract).
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Jockey R. McMahon, rider of Beautiful, was found guilty of a charge of careless riding, in that near the 1100m he failed to make sufficient effort to prevent his mount shifting in when insufficiently clear of Heza Guru (C. Reith), which in turn was taken in across the rightful running of Heir Express (S. Galloway), resulting in Heir Express having to be checked. R. McMahon was suspended from riding in races for a period covered by 6 meetings, to commence at midnight, 2 November and to expire at midnight, 12 November 2008
Passing the 1100m, Propheteer (M. Palmer) was placed in restricted room between Jodie’s Gift (J. Taylor), which shifted in slightly, and Kyuss (D. Craven), which was taken out slightly by Don’t Push Me (G. Colless).
Near the 1000m, Propheteer, which had been obliged to race in restricted room for some distance, had to be steadied when further tightened for room by Kyuss, which shifted out slightly, and Jodie’s Gift, which was taken in by Alpha Town (A. Merritt). A. Merritt, rider of Alpha Town, was reprimanded. Approaching the 700m, when the pace eased, Knuckles (M. Radecker) improved up on to the heels of Alpha Town (A. Merritt) and had to be steadied. Beautiful (R. McMahon) and Heza Guru (C. Reith), which were following, were hampered in consequence. Propheteer (M. Palmer) raced wide for the majority of the event. A post race veterinary examination of Kyuss failed to reveal any significant abnormalities.
Race 4:
Maiden Plate - 1500m
1st – Unapred; 2nd – Smartness; 3rd - Rhidan's Chant
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Shaun Dwyer: “He was injured as a youngster. The guy who broke him in was loading him into the truck when he reared up and crushed his wither. Probably because of that injury he’s been inclined to hang out quite badly in races. He didn’t do it so badly today and he’s building up nicely in distance” (jumped from 1200m on debut to 1500m here).
“I might give him another run this prep, in fact I probably will, but I’m really tempted to put him out until after Christmas, just to let him grow into himself. I think he’ll end up being a nice ten furlong horse.”
Jockey Jim Byrne: “Yeah, he’s had his problems. I rode him last time and he wanted to hang out there, but the winner was probably just too good for him anyway. I didn’t ride him in the previous start, but knowing what he is capable of I’m sure he must have been a handful. He’s getting better though.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Near the 1000m, Unapred (J. Byrne) and Rhidan’s Chant (R. Wiggins) had to be steadied when tightened for room by Young Prince (A. Coome), which was taken in by Bootooloo (C. Reith). C. Reith, rider of Bootooloo, was reprimanded. Passing the 900m, In The Move (G. Colless) improved up on to the heels of Kayjay (P. Wolfgram) and had to be steadied and shifted out, forcing Dolphin Quest (L. Rolls) wider on the track. Near the 800m, Kayjay shifted out abruptly across the heels of In The Move and had to be checked. Trainer N. Owen was advised that Kayjay must trial to the satisfaction of the stewards prior to its next race start. A post race veterinary examination of Kayjay failed to reveal any significant abnormalities. Arcangela (R. McMahon) raced wide for the majority of the event.
When questioned regarding the performance of In The Move, G. Colless stated that he rode the horse quiet today and although he was able to improve his position approaching the home turn, In The Move was under pressure a short distance later and failed to respond to his riding thereafter. A post race veterinary examination of In The Move failed to reveal any significant abnormalities.
Race 5:
Fillies & Mares Class 4 Handicap - 1500m
1st - Outer Pole; 2nd - Dell Amby; 3rd - Created
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Brett Dodson: “She’s very consistent. We bought her from Melbourne. She’s had seven starts for me for three wins and three seconds. She hadn’t been tried over more than 1300m when she came to me. She’s bred to go more ground and she’s been doing it well. She earned her chance up here (in the city). I just wanted her to settle and be ridden quietly. The rail being out so far was a worry, but Glen (Colless) rode her a treat.”
This win lifted Colless to joint top spot in the Metropolitan Jockey’s Premiership with fifteen winners to date (matching that of Brad Pengelly).
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Approaching the 1200m, Spanish Kiss (D. Griffin) had to be eased to avoid the heels of Lots Of Success (M. Radecker), which shifted in. A short distance later, Cosmic Cruz (A. Spinks) also had to be eased to avoid the heels of Lots Of Success, which shifted in. M. Radecker, rider of Lots Of Success was reprimanded and advised to be sure she was clear when shifting ground in future. Dell Amby (A. Coome) was inclined to shift ground under pressure outwards in the straight.
When questioned regarding the poor performance of Lots Of Success, M. Radecker was unable to offer any explanation for today's performance. Trainer Mr P. Duff stated that the mare may not have been suited by the distance of today's event and that the horse may have come to the end of its preparation. Mr Duff added that the horse would now be given an ease up and he may in future limit the mare's races to shorter distances. A post race veterinary examination of Lots Of Success failed to reveal any significant abnormalities.
Race 6:
Class 5 Handicap - 1300m
1st – Kanpeki; 2nd - Albert Cadabra; 3rd - Falzig
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Apprentice jockey Owen Turpin (who rode his second city winner): “She jumped well. I just settled her until the turn. Then I pulled her out at the top of the straight and she kicked on beautifully.”
Trainer Greg Kennedy was not at the track. He was at the Magic Millions Sales at the Gold Coast.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Ace Arena (M. Hellyer), which was fractious in the barriers, blundered on jumping away, losing ground. Rounding the home turn, Supercilious (M. Palmer), which was endeavouring to obtain a run between Kanpeki (O. Turpin) and Ace Arena (M. Hellyer) where there was doubtful room, shifted out across the heels of Ace Arena and had to be checked. Near the 150m, Diamond Sapphire had to be checked when tightened for room between Albert Cadabra, which shifted out, and Falzig, which was taken in by Kanpeki. App. L. Rolls, rider of Albert Cadabra pleaded guilty to a charge of careless riding, in that near the 150m he contributed to Diamond Sapphire having to be checked by permitting his mount to shift out. His licence to ride in races was suspended for a period of 6 meetings, to commence at midnight, 2 November and to expire at midnight, 8 November.
O. Turpin, rider of Kanpeki, was found guilty of a charge of careless riding, in that he allowed his mount to shift in near the 150m. when insufficiently clear of Falzig, which was taken in onto Diamond Sapphire, thus contributing to that horse having to be checked. Apprentice Turpin was suspended from riding in races for a period covered by 5 meetings, to commence at midnight, 6 November, the expiration of a previously incurred suspension, and to expire at midnight, 13 November.
Race 7:
Class 3 Handicap - 1200m
1st – Hurl; 2nd – Snorkel; 3rd - Best Bid/Gun Salute
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Apprentice jockey Amy Taylor: “Gee that tracks a bit jarry, or maybe it just feels that way to me. I had my wisdom teeth out on Monday and I could feel every bump along the way. I was never going to get back. That’s all I needed, a clod of earth in my mouth.
“The horse was back in distance from a wide draw. I thought I’d just go out and take no prisoners. I’d thought I’d just go out and win.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Jockey J. Holder, rider of Le Celibataire, was found guilty of a charge of careless riding, in that near the 1000m he permitted his mount to shift in when insufficiently clear of Best Bid (M. Radecker), which had to be steadied to avoid heels and shifted in, taking Mona Star (R. McMahon) inwards, resulting in Gun Salute (D. Craven) being taken in, tightening the running of Gelmood(C. Reith) and Silvern(S. Cormack), both of which had to be severely checked. J. Holder was suspended from riding in races for a period covered by 9 meetings, to commence at midnight, 1 November and to expire at midnight, 14 November 2008.
Best Bid (M. Radecker) raced wide throughout.
Race 8:
CG&E Class 4 Handicap - 1500m
1st - Our Lukas; 2nd - No Technique; 3rd - Cole Trickle
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Robert Heathcote: “It’s a very satisfying win for me because it is the horse’s first win in its first run for the new owner. I’m delighted for him. The old owners asked me to find a buyer and I found one for $55 000. It is a very good result all around.”
This win took Heathcote five winners clear at the top of the Metropolitan Trainers Premiership, three months into the season.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Bearhart Lad (A. Coome) was tightened for room on jumping away between Prized Packet (R. McMahon) and Tetra (C. Reith), which shifted in after initially being taken in by Life’s Short (P. Hammersley). As a result, A. Coome, rider of Bearhart Lad, momentarily lost the use of his near-side iron. Prized Packet (R. McMahon) over-raced in the early stages. Rabbitnagina (S. Thurlow) was slow to begin and then was obliged to race wide for the majority of the event. Near the 800m, Our Lukas (S. Scriven) improved up on to the heels of Voltabolta (M. Palmer) and had to be steadied. No Technique(O. Turpin) which was following, shifted out abruptly to avoid the heels of Our Lukas, and in doing so hampered Rabbitnagina. Voltabolta lost its near fore plate in running.
General
Jockey D. Craven pleaded guilty to a charge under AR87(b) in that he had in his possession a safety vest which had been modified. D. Craven was fined $500.
Race 1:
3yo CG&E Maiden Handicap - 1200m
1st - Rocking Rooney; 2nd - Social Cat; 3rd - De Dion Bouton
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Peter Balzen: “We thought we had a very nice horse at the start. He trialled well and we were offered $100 000 for him before he’s ever raced. The connections knocked back that offer. I mean knocked it back outright. The horse was never vetted or anything. It just wasn’t for sale.
“Then he ran a good third on his debut and we still felt we were on the right track. But he’s been disappointing since then. Last time they went too slow. Shave (Scriven) came in and was dirty with himself. He said he should have let him go instead of sitting playing jockeys with the rest of them. This time we thought we’d bring him back in distance and ride him back, hoping there would be some speed in the race which would allow him to come home well.”
Jockey Shane Scriven: “Yeah, he a funny horse. I rode him when he finished third in his first start and he looked a pretty useful sort, but he’s taken this long to find his feet. I was very happy where I was in the run and when he moved forward it looked like he was going to win easy. But when he hit the front he switched off and I had to keep reminding him that he wasn’t finished yet.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Lotachoc (P. Hammersley) was severely hampered on jumping away between A Scarletpimpernel (K. Pope) and De Dion Bouton (K. Wharton), which jumped away awkwardly and shifted in. Near the 1000m, De Dion Bouton (K. Wharton), which was over-racing, shifted out, forcing Super Moon (J. Byrne) wider on the track. Super Moon was then obliged to improve forward to obtain a position closer to the fence. De Dion Bouton continued to over-race for some distance. Passing the 500m, A Scarletpimpernel shifted out off the heels of Super Moon and in doing so forced Social Cat (M. Radecker) wider.
Race 2:
3yo Fillies Maiden Handicap - 1200m
1st - Yatala; 2nd - Plain Magic; 3rd – Tikit To Glory
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Tony Crane: “This is her second run for me. We thought she was good enough to win last time when she finished second. She didn’t quite handle the rain-effected ground and that cost her a bit. She was more comfortable with the ground today and going up in distance (from 1100m to 1200m) suited. She’s ideally looking for 1400m.”
Jockey: Brad Pengelly: “She needed the run last time (after a two month break and relocation). I thought she needed to improve and would improve and Tony (Crane) has got her to do just that. He’s a good trainer.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Rounding the home turn, Silver Whisper (S. Cormack) shifted out on to the heels of Jensway (M. Bennett) and had to be steadied. Approaching the 300m, Justly Proud (K. Wharton) improved on to the heels of the tiring Never Touched (R. McMahon) and had to be steadied. Silver Whisper (S. Cormack) raced greenly in the straight.A post race veterinary examination of Never Touched, which compounded in the straight, failed to reveal any significant abnormalities.
This win took Brad Pengelly to an outright lead at the top of the Jockeys Metropolitan Premiership ladder – a position he would hold until Glen Colless also lifted his total for the season to fifteen winners three races later.
Race 3:
Maiden 4yo & Up Handicap - 1200m
1st - Beautiful; 2nd - Knuckles; 3rd - Alpha Town
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Brian Smith: “What’s it like going to the races without having a winner?” (The Smith stable has been a regular winner for several weeks now).
“It’s my first win for the owners. She’s a nice looking mare isn’t she? Some would say ‘beautiful’. That’s how she got her name actually. (Co-owner) Lisa (Morton) phoned and asked how the horse was going. I said, ‘beautiful’. She said, ‘that’s what we’ll call it then.’ They couldn’t believe the name was still available.”
Jockey Ric McMahon: “She settled beautifully. She’s not all there in her action yet. She knows how to run but isn’t quite sure of herself.”
The run cost Ric McMahon time. The rider was found guilty of a careless riding charge (see Stewards Report Extract).
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Jockey R. McMahon, rider of Beautiful, was found guilty of a charge of careless riding, in that near the 1100m he failed to make sufficient effort to prevent his mount shifting in when insufficiently clear of Heza Guru (C. Reith), which in turn was taken in across the rightful running of Heir Express (S. Galloway), resulting in Heir Express having to be checked. R. McMahon was suspended from riding in races for a period covered by 6 meetings, to commence at midnight, 2 November and to expire at midnight, 12 November 2008
Passing the 1100m, Propheteer (M. Palmer) was placed in restricted room between Jodie’s Gift (J. Taylor), which shifted in slightly, and Kyuss (D. Craven), which was taken out slightly by Don’t Push Me (G. Colless).
Near the 1000m, Propheteer, which had been obliged to race in restricted room for some distance, had to be steadied when further tightened for room by Kyuss, which shifted out slightly, and Jodie’s Gift, which was taken in by Alpha Town (A. Merritt). A. Merritt, rider of Alpha Town, was reprimanded. Approaching the 700m, when the pace eased, Knuckles (M. Radecker) improved up on to the heels of Alpha Town (A. Merritt) and had to be steadied. Beautiful (R. McMahon) and Heza Guru (C. Reith), which were following, were hampered in consequence. Propheteer (M. Palmer) raced wide for the majority of the event. A post race veterinary examination of Kyuss failed to reveal any significant abnormalities.
Race 4:
Maiden Plate - 1500m
1st – Unapred; 2nd – Smartness; 3rd - Rhidan's Chant
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Shaun Dwyer: “He was injured as a youngster. The guy who broke him in was loading him into the truck when he reared up and crushed his wither. Probably because of that injury he’s been inclined to hang out quite badly in races. He didn’t do it so badly today and he’s building up nicely in distance” (jumped from 1200m on debut to 1500m here).
“I might give him another run this prep, in fact I probably will, but I’m really tempted to put him out until after Christmas, just to let him grow into himself. I think he’ll end up being a nice ten furlong horse.”
Jockey Jim Byrne: “Yeah, he’s had his problems. I rode him last time and he wanted to hang out there, but the winner was probably just too good for him anyway. I didn’t ride him in the previous start, but knowing what he is capable of I’m sure he must have been a handful. He’s getting better though.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Near the 1000m, Unapred (J. Byrne) and Rhidan’s Chant (R. Wiggins) had to be steadied when tightened for room by Young Prince (A. Coome), which was taken in by Bootooloo (C. Reith). C. Reith, rider of Bootooloo, was reprimanded. Passing the 900m, In The Move (G. Colless) improved up on to the heels of Kayjay (P. Wolfgram) and had to be steadied and shifted out, forcing Dolphin Quest (L. Rolls) wider on the track. Near the 800m, Kayjay shifted out abruptly across the heels of In The Move and had to be checked. Trainer N. Owen was advised that Kayjay must trial to the satisfaction of the stewards prior to its next race start. A post race veterinary examination of Kayjay failed to reveal any significant abnormalities. Arcangela (R. McMahon) raced wide for the majority of the event.
When questioned regarding the performance of In The Move, G. Colless stated that he rode the horse quiet today and although he was able to improve his position approaching the home turn, In The Move was under pressure a short distance later and failed to respond to his riding thereafter. A post race veterinary examination of In The Move failed to reveal any significant abnormalities.
Race 5:
Fillies & Mares Class 4 Handicap - 1500m
1st - Outer Pole; 2nd - Dell Amby; 3rd - Created
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Brett Dodson: “She’s very consistent. We bought her from Melbourne. She’s had seven starts for me for three wins and three seconds. She hadn’t been tried over more than 1300m when she came to me. She’s bred to go more ground and she’s been doing it well. She earned her chance up here (in the city). I just wanted her to settle and be ridden quietly. The rail being out so far was a worry, but Glen (Colless) rode her a treat.”
This win lifted Colless to joint top spot in the Metropolitan Jockey’s Premiership with fifteen winners to date (matching that of Brad Pengelly).
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Approaching the 1200m, Spanish Kiss (D. Griffin) had to be eased to avoid the heels of Lots Of Success (M. Radecker), which shifted in. A short distance later, Cosmic Cruz (A. Spinks) also had to be eased to avoid the heels of Lots Of Success, which shifted in. M. Radecker, rider of Lots Of Success was reprimanded and advised to be sure she was clear when shifting ground in future. Dell Amby (A. Coome) was inclined to shift ground under pressure outwards in the straight.
When questioned regarding the poor performance of Lots Of Success, M. Radecker was unable to offer any explanation for today's performance. Trainer Mr P. Duff stated that the mare may not have been suited by the distance of today's event and that the horse may have come to the end of its preparation. Mr Duff added that the horse would now be given an ease up and he may in future limit the mare's races to shorter distances. A post race veterinary examination of Lots Of Success failed to reveal any significant abnormalities.
Race 6:
Class 5 Handicap - 1300m
1st – Kanpeki; 2nd - Albert Cadabra; 3rd - Falzig
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Apprentice jockey Owen Turpin (who rode his second city winner): “She jumped well. I just settled her until the turn. Then I pulled her out at the top of the straight and she kicked on beautifully.”
Trainer Greg Kennedy was not at the track. He was at the Magic Millions Sales at the Gold Coast.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Ace Arena (M. Hellyer), which was fractious in the barriers, blundered on jumping away, losing ground. Rounding the home turn, Supercilious (M. Palmer), which was endeavouring to obtain a run between Kanpeki (O. Turpin) and Ace Arena (M. Hellyer) where there was doubtful room, shifted out across the heels of Ace Arena and had to be checked. Near the 150m, Diamond Sapphire had to be checked when tightened for room between Albert Cadabra, which shifted out, and Falzig, which was taken in by Kanpeki. App. L. Rolls, rider of Albert Cadabra pleaded guilty to a charge of careless riding, in that near the 150m he contributed to Diamond Sapphire having to be checked by permitting his mount to shift out. His licence to ride in races was suspended for a period of 6 meetings, to commence at midnight, 2 November and to expire at midnight, 8 November.
O. Turpin, rider of Kanpeki, was found guilty of a charge of careless riding, in that he allowed his mount to shift in near the 150m. when insufficiently clear of Falzig, which was taken in onto Diamond Sapphire, thus contributing to that horse having to be checked. Apprentice Turpin was suspended from riding in races for a period covered by 5 meetings, to commence at midnight, 6 November, the expiration of a previously incurred suspension, and to expire at midnight, 13 November.
Race 7:
Class 3 Handicap - 1200m
1st – Hurl; 2nd – Snorkel; 3rd - Best Bid/Gun Salute
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Apprentice jockey Amy Taylor: “Gee that tracks a bit jarry, or maybe it just feels that way to me. I had my wisdom teeth out on Monday and I could feel every bump along the way. I was never going to get back. That’s all I needed, a clod of earth in my mouth.
“The horse was back in distance from a wide draw. I thought I’d just go out and take no prisoners. I’d thought I’d just go out and win.”
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Jockey J. Holder, rider of Le Celibataire, was found guilty of a charge of careless riding, in that near the 1000m he permitted his mount to shift in when insufficiently clear of Best Bid (M. Radecker), which had to be steadied to avoid heels and shifted in, taking Mona Star (R. McMahon) inwards, resulting in Gun Salute (D. Craven) being taken in, tightening the running of Gelmood(C. Reith) and Silvern(S. Cormack), both of which had to be severely checked. J. Holder was suspended from riding in races for a period covered by 9 meetings, to commence at midnight, 1 November and to expire at midnight, 14 November 2008.
Best Bid (M. Radecker) raced wide throughout.
Race 8:
CG&E Class 4 Handicap - 1500m
1st - Our Lukas; 2nd - No Technique; 3rd - Cole Trickle
WINNER FEEDBACK:
Trainer Robert Heathcote: “It’s a very satisfying win for me because it is the horse’s first win in its first run for the new owner. I’m delighted for him. The old owners asked me to find a buyer and I found one for $55 000. It is a very good result all around.”
This win took Heathcote five winners clear at the top of the Metropolitan Trainers Premiership, three months into the season.
STEWARDS REPORT EXTRACT:
Bearhart Lad (A. Coome) was tightened for room on jumping away between Prized Packet (R. McMahon) and Tetra (C. Reith), which shifted in after initially being taken in by Life’s Short (P. Hammersley). As a result, A. Coome, rider of Bearhart Lad, momentarily lost the use of his near-side iron. Prized Packet (R. McMahon) over-raced in the early stages. Rabbitnagina (S. Thurlow) was slow to begin and then was obliged to race wide for the majority of the event. Near the 800m, Our Lukas (S. Scriven) improved up on to the heels of Voltabolta (M. Palmer) and had to be steadied. No Technique(O. Turpin) which was following, shifted out abruptly to avoid the heels of Our Lukas, and in doing so hampered Rabbitnagina. Voltabolta lost its near fore plate in running.
General
Jockey D. Craven pleaded guilty to a charge under AR87(b) in that he had in his possession a safety vest which had been modified. D. Craven was fined $500.
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