NZ HARNESS NEWS
Vincent sent a swift reminder to all racing fans of his impressive abilities with a brilliant win in Friday night’s Group 2 $50,000 Franklin Cup at Alexandra Park.
With his main adversary from last season, Ultimate Machete, winning three Group 1 races in the last month, Vincent was at risk of being relegated below his stablemate in the eyes of fans.
But, despite being fresh-up over 2700 metres, and looking quite bulky in condition, he nearly lowered his own national record to win in ultra-impressive fashion for co-trainer Natalie Rasmussen.
“He was really professional tonight.
“He was definitely a run short – he’s quite a heavy horse and it’s taken a bit of time to get him back to race condition.
“I think he’ll need another run at Cambridge next week and then that should have him bang-on for the Auckland Cup (December 31).”
Stablemate Heaven Rocks (Tim Williams) was at his heart-breaking best for punters and connections, breaking up when in front at the furlong mark.
Rasmussen believed she would have still had his measure with Vincent, but that didn’t remove the fact that the giant pacer was once again not ‘playing ball’.
“He’s a pig and a cheat – he just doesn’t want to work hard and he’s not genuine.
“He’s always thinking and he won’t ever be a topliner while he’s like that.
“Compare him to a horse like Titan Banner, who did a lot of work tonight and still run third.
“He never gives in and tries so hard; it was a very good run from him tonight.”
A G’s White Socks (Ricky May) showed he will be a factor in the Auckland Cup by coming home well for second, the splits off the front (55.6/27.7) showing just what a big effort that was.
Jack’s Legend (Zachary Butcher) was the disappointment of the race, managing only fifth from the trail after leading early and handing up to Heaven Rocks at the mile mark.
- NZ Harness News
Approved By Dean Baring www.harnessbred.com
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