23 December 2022 | HRNSW MEDIA | MICHAEL DUMESNY
MENANGLE PARK horseman Robert Morris is without doubt one of the most consistent reinsmen of the modern era.
His 2022 performance in the gig has again been super impressive, finishing third on the state’s premiership with 150 winners to date.
The hardworking Morris has had a busy time of late, spending much of his time during the past month in Victoria where he campaigned with one of the surprise packets of the Inter Dominion series in Petes Said So, who made the Grand Final for Rob’s wife/trainer KerryAnn (Morris).
The gelding made up a ton of ground late in the final to only be beaten by nine metres in sixth placing, appearing to be a touch unlucky.
But nonetheless Petes Said So flew the flag high for New South Wales, producing strong performances.
“He gave us such a thrill in Victoria, he went great,” said Morris.
“Kez had him spot-on and even though he surprised many, we were confident that he was capable of being in the mix.
“It was a great result for his owner Pete Kohlsdorf, who is so passionate about the game.
“Pete buys up well at yearling sales throughout Australia so for him to have one make an Inter Dominion final was just reward for his commitment.”
With no metropolitan racing for the remainder of the year, Morris is focussing on the time-honoured Maitland Inner City Pace series that kicks off tonight.
It is the 60th anniversary running of the popular series and Team Morris appears to have the top seed going into the Maitland feature with former Victorian Reactor Factor.
Sent to the stable in pursuit of the rich Menangle racing, Reactor Factor has taken time to settle into Lucky Lodge after returning from a spell.
But a recent strong trial and some solid trackwork has Morris confident that the gelding has what it takes to win the Inter City Pace.
“As always you need luck in these races on the smaller tracks,” said Morris.
“But he is a lovely horse with plenty of high speed, so we will push forward on him, despite the wide draw, and hopefully qualify for next week’s final.
“After his trial, I now understand why connections rate him highly.
“It was a good blow out and his Victorian form is quite strong.”
The Maitland Club is excited to have come up with four heats of this popular series.
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