By Adam Hamilton
New trainer Gary Hall Sr is convinced Ohoka Punter is one of the big guns of the Perth Inter Dominion.
The champion trainer wasn’t so sure on trackwork, but his opinion changed after a sparkling Byford trial today (Sunday).
Ohoka Punter blasted out from a wide draw to lead from driver Gary Hall Jr and kept running. His 1min55.6sec mile rate was just 0.5sec outside the Byford track record held by Hall Sr’s former champ Im Themightyquinn.
“All the signs were really exciting,” Hall Sr said. “I wondered about his gate speed, but he absolutely flew out. Gaz (Hall Jr) was thrilled about that.
“I didn’t quite know what to think about him on his work at home. He’s a typical Bettors Delight, a bit lazy, but he was really impressive today.
“He’s not just a winning chance, he one of the major chances in the series on what he did today.”
The only slight negative Hall Sr noted was a tendency to hang at times.
“I think he’s always been like it, but it didn’t stop him running super times,” he said.
“Just with the hanging in mind and the fact he’s such a good doer, I’m going to give him some practice around Gloucester Park. There is a random draw free-for-all this Friday night.”
Stablemate Beaudiene Boaz, who overraced badly and was rundown late at Gloucester Park last Friday night, has come through the run well.
“Gaz (Hall Jr) said he just took charge. He ran 54.8sec between the 1200m and 400m so he couldn’t keep going,” he said.
“Everything considered, he ran really well, but it was disappointing he ran himself ragged.”
The plan is for Gary Hall Jr to drive both Ohoka Punter and Beaudiene Boaz through the Inter Dominion heats or until they clash.
In other stable news, Hall Sr remains upbeat about Chicago Bull for the 4YO features during the Inter Dominion carnival.
“Mr Mojito looks really good, but he’s got a long way to travel and has to handle the tight track,” he said.
“My horse has had to sit parked when beaten at his past two runs, but he’s much better with sit or leading. I still think he’s the horse to beat.”
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