24 December 2021 | HRNSW MEDIA | MICHAEL DUMESNY
MENANGLE Park reinsman Robert Morris is about to conclude what can only be described as one of his best-ever seasons.
With 131 wins in New South Wales on his scoresheet and four Group 1 victories, the popular horseman has proven yet again why he is rated as one of the best of his craft nationwide.
When asked what the highlight was for him during 2021, Morris never hesitated, naming the two major wins he captured with the Roy Roots Jnr-trained, The Black Prince.
The duo combined to win several races, but nothing compares with the wins in the Len Smith Mile and the Newcastle Mile and contesting the home state Inter Dominion earlier this month.
Morris’s other Group 1 victories came in the Hunter TAB Regional final aboard the Geoff Harding-trained The Choreographer and with Tims A Trooper in the Two Year Old Colts and Geldings Breeders Challenge final for Queensland trainer Grant Dixon.
“I set myself goals at the start of each season, and this year I have well and truly achieved them,” said Morris.
“Newcastle is one track that I hold close to my heart as I have so much success up there.
“Tonight, I have six drives, and most of them have strong chances.
“The horse I am driving in the first race, Takingcareofbusiness is a really nice two-year-old who is having his first Australian start after coming from New Zealand.
“He won two over there and KerryAnn [Morris] is trying to win with him before the season ends.
“I have driven him a couple times in trackwork, and he feels really sharp.
“I think I will push forward off the arm, hopefully find the lead, and then dictate terms from there.
“Bettor Watch Arden (Race 4) is another horse that I am driving which has drawn well and will take a power of beating.
“He was impressive in winning at Newcastle last Saturday when he rated a slick 1.53 and won as he liked.
“I think Roy will want me to adopt similar tactics to last week when he had them running in front.
“So, I am hoping he can get the job done again.
“Gimme A Reason (Race 3) is on a quick back-up from Goulburn on Monday.
“He will need some luck from his backline draw but has the ability to overcome that adversity.”
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