by Chris Barsby
Tim Butt has fond memories of Queensland.
On previous trips, the Christchurch based trainer claimed the biggest events in the southern hemisphere – the 2001 Inter Dominion Trotting Grand Final with Take A Moment at Albion Park while returning in 2009 with former North American star Mr Feelgood to win the Inter Dominion Pacing Grand Final when staged at the Gold Coast.
And the world champion horseman is heading back to the Sunshine State with his last start Gr.1 $100,000 Len Smith Mile winner My Field Marshal, fresh from his success yesterday (Sunday) at TABCORP Park, Menangle.
The richly talented five-year-old powered down the outside of the spacious Sydney track to snatch victory from a game Mach Doro and race favourites Lennytheshark and Hectorjayjay in a time of 1:50.2.
“He raced great and finished off superbly, he thrives on this style of racing and Brisbane is the next stop. In fact, he’s already on the road and will next start in the Sunshine Sprint followed by the Blacks A Fake, both races have been on his radar for some time.” Butt said.
The Gr.2 $50,000 Garrards Sunshine Sprint is scheduled for July 8 at Albion Park followed by the Gr.1 $200,000 UBET Blacks A Fake the following week.
My Field Marshal is expected to renew his battles with Mach Doro, Lennytheshark, Hectorjayjay, Tiger Tara, Major Crocker and Ultimate Art while the local talent is spearheaded by triple Queensland Horse of the Year Avonnova.
My Field Marshal has thrived during his Australian stint to date and appears to be getting better as his campaign runs deeper.
It was his third success at his past four starts with other victories including the Gr.2 $75,000 Four & Five Championship at Melton on May 20 followed by his triumph in the $20,000 Golden Reign FFA the following week.
The Art Major – Foreal entire has now won four Group One events.
“I’ve always held him in very high regard but we’ve been patient with him and haven’t chased every race possible and now he’s really matured and developed into a lovely racehorse. I think the next twelve to eighteen months should be his best so it’s rather exciting.
“The Brisbane campaign has always been the target and the style of racing should suit him nicely, they race hard and fast and that’s his style. Obviously the draws play a big role but he just needs the little bit of luck or no bad luck to play a role in the finish of his races.
“We’re staying with Shannon (Price) and Scott (Miller) and they’ve got him on the truck headed north as we speak with their three-year-old (Three Of The Best).”
Understandably, Butt is hoping to add to his list of memories in the coming weeks.
The Albion Park winter carnival officially starts this weekend before reaching its climax on July 15.
Approved By Dean Baring www.harnessbred.com
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