By Adam Hamilton
AN UNTIMELY cold looks set to send high-priced Kiwi import King Of Swing to the spelling paddock.
It’s only minor, but new trainer Gary Hall Sr concedes it is unlikely King Of Swing will be right again in time for the $200,000 Group 1 WA Derby on April 6.
“He’s up against it. He looks good, but he’s had a cold and it’s put us behind where we need to be,” Hall Sr said.
“We’ll hopple him Wednesday and again Saturday, but the Derby is unlikely at this stage.
“If he’s not right for the Derby, then I’ll put him out for a good spell so we can focus on the Golden Nugget next season.”
Stablemate Chicago Bull is already headed for the spelling paddock after another big season where he’s raced 16 times for eight wins, seven placings and earned $541,250.
He capped his preparation with a sparkling win in the $50,000 Group 2 4&5YO Championship (2130m) at Gloucester Park last Friday night in a slick 1min54.6sec mile rate.
“He did it easily and he’s so well, but now the time for him to spell so I can give him a good build-up towards the big races next season,” Hall Sr said.
“I keep getting asked if I regret not going to the Hunter Cup or Miracle Mile, but he’d have to won one of them to have earned as much as he has by staying at home.
“And I think this has been the best thing for him at this stage of his career.”
Approved By Dean Baring www.harnessbred.com
Driving The Future Of Harness Racing
