By Adam Hamilton
PREPARE for a wave of Aussies at the Harness Jewels.
A combination of growing awareness in Australia and the easier path to Cambridge compared to Ashburton is set to record quality and quantity Aussie representation on June 2.
Australia’s most exciting young open-class star Jilliby Kung Fu, one of the best young trotters the country has seen in Wobelee and brilliant Ladyship Mile winner Carlas Pixel head the “very likely” raiders.
Others Aussies to have expressed strong interest to HRNZ include: Shane Tritton with his trip Platinum Revolution (2YO filly), Reaza Grunter (4yo mare) and Gotta Go Ya Hu (4YO gelding); Nathan Jack’s former Jewels’ winner Custodian; star 3YO fillies Soho Burning Love and Shez All Rock and former Kiwis Let it Ride and Delightful Memphis.
“The interest has been unprecedented. The awareness of the Jewels is really out there in Australia,” HRNZ’s Darrin Williams said. “I’ve had lots of phone calls and emails, but we are not in a rush to announce any official invitations just yet.
“I’m staying in close contact with all the connections over there.
“The way it’s shaping we could have as many as six across this year and they are all genuine Group 1 horses.”
Jilliby Kung Fu’s trainer Marg Lee has made it clear the Jewels is a major target and his invite should be a formality when the timing is right.
The same with Wobelee given his amazing deeds in Australia with wins at his past 12 starts, including five at Group 1 level.
And Carlas Pixel’s blazing Ladyship Mile win elevated her to Australia’s best mare.
“They all sound very keen from my talks with them,” Williams said.
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