03 October 2024 | Duncan Dornauf for Tasracing
Driver Jack Watson will be out to complete a winning hat-trick with a pacer he owns, Shaun To The Max, when they line up in the Racing Connect Pace (2090m) on Friday night in Hobart.
Shaun To The Max, trained by Jack’s mother, Juanita McKenzie, has won his last two starts. Both have been in Hobart, both from the pole draw, and both when leading throughout. The wins almost weren’t recorded, with the pacer being retired after a second placing five starts ago.
“I have been rapt. He has come back from what was to be his retirement pretty well. He was running around in the paddock a bit too much, so Mum decided to bring him back into work. Now, he is back racing better than ever,” said Watson.
“He has struggled with his gate speed since we have had him, but we have started to shoe him a bit differently, and he is flying the gate now.
“Barrier eight for him isn’t ideal, but we will just see what happens; I think he can go close, but we will need things to go our way,” the driver said about his chances.
Watson will also take the reins on two other runners for the McKenzie stable, including Jack James in the Jarod Todd Foundation (2090m).
“He always runs an honest race, but he can be a bit frustrating as he is going a bit better than he is at the races. I’m not sure how I will drive him yet, but it would be nice if he could lob handy.
Rounding at the treble for the trio is Strawberry Bling in the night’s final race, the Tasmanian Horse Transport Pace (1609m).
“I thought she was good first up, and didn’t have much clear room in the straight. I’m a bit unsure with her at the mile, but I expect her to run an improved race,” said Watson.
The seven-race card commences at 17:49 and will be shown exclusively on Sky Racing 2.
Approved By Dean Baring www.harnessbred.com
Driving The Future Of Harness Racing
