NZ HARNESS NEWS
Kirstin Barclay will take a promising first starter to the Ascot Park meeting on Saturday in the form of, Ranga Roc.
Bred and raced by Tom Kilkelly, the three-year-old by Stunin Cullen has been at four workouts since March for a second and three wins, as well as a win in a qualifying trial.
Handled in the trial by Brent Barclay (no relation), Ranga Roc won and went better than six seconds inside the qualifying time.
“It’s a big step-up to race day, but he’s got a bit of speed and good attitude, he’s very willing,” said Barclay.
“I’d expect him to win one quite soon.”
Maiden mare Fun Sponge has a change of driver this week, but Barclay hopes the mare’s good form is not affected.
Blair Orange has driven the Mach Three four-year-old in nine of her 13 starts and been runner-up three times, including her past two.
On Saturday, he takes the reins of the Clark Barron-trained first starter Rakagem.
“Blair drives Clark’s horses when he comes down so I’ll be on Fun Sponge,” said Barclay, who has been aboard the mare once before on raceday, finishing third at the Roxburgh meeting in January.
“She is really well, it is a bit stronger field than last time but she is drawn to be handy so I might look to lead early.”
Three-win mare Grace Burns, who races in the seventh, has been out of the money her past three starts.
Maybe she is a bit stale so we’ve been varying her training, some riding and cantering,” Barclay reported.
Somethings Burning, a talented maiden trotting filly, runs in the opening event but is struggling for form.
“She’s had a problem knuckling over so we’ve changed some shoeing hoping it brings a change of form.
“She’s got ability, high speed, but is still weak enough yet.”
- NZ Harness News
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