Cranbourne – 28 May 2017
RACE 4 - ALDEBARAN PARK TROT
Stewards previously adjourned an inquiry in relation to the driving tactics adopted by Steve Martin on Backten Onhim in race 4 at Cranbourne on 28 May 2017 so as to enable stewards to investigate all other relevant matters concerning the tactics adopted. After doing so stewards noted the explanation provided by Mr Martin in that after obtaining the lead on Backten Onhim he endeavoured to rate that horse consistently through the lead time and the first quarter as previously the gelding had performed best when able to race clear in the lead. Mr Martin added that Backten Onhim had performed competitively when driven in a similar manner at Ballarat on 21 May 2017 when winning however on this occasion once the stablemate Shiftywallprogressed forward and raced on level terms with Backten Onhim during the middle stages, Backten Onhim then gave ground from the 400m and tired to be beaten in excess of 90 metres. Backten Onhim was placed on its last chance to race truly. Although stewards had some concerns with regards to the manner in which Mr Martin had rated Backten Onhim during the early stages of the race whilst racing in advance of the remainder of the field, his tactics adopted in the circumstances were not considered unreasonable or unacceptable to the extent of warranting action against him under the rules.
Tabcorp Park Melton – 08 July 2017
RACE 1 – TAB.COM.AU PACE
Margaret Lee, trainer of Looks Like Heaven, has reported that blood tests conducted on the mare failed to reveal any abnormalities. Ms Lee added that Looks Like Heaven pulled up with a slight gurgle in the throat subsequent to the race and the mare underwent a veterinary examination early last week which cleared Looks Like Heaven of any abnormalities. Ms Lee further added that the mare has been sent to the spelling paddock for a short break.
RACE 4 – PET ROCK EMPIRE STALLIONS VICBRED SUPER SERIES (2YO COLTS & GELDINGS) FINAL (GROUP 1)
Emma Stewart, trainer of Major Times, has reported that the colt pulled up fine subsequent to the performance. Ms Stewart added that Major Times had not been worked since the race and will make a determination in the coming days whether to push forward with the colt towards the Australasian Breeders Crown.
Emma Stewart, trainer of Liftntorque, has reported that the colt pulled up fine subsequent to the performance. Ms Stewart added that Liftntorque had not been worked since the race and will make a determination in the coming days whether to push forward with the colt’s current campaign.
Bendigo – 12 July 2017
RACE 6 – SANTONS OF BENDIGO PACE
Andy Gath, trainer of Novena Rose NZ, has reported that the mare pulled up a little flat subsequent to the race and did not seem comfortable in her action. Mr Gath added that a veterinary examination failed to reveal any obvious abnormalities. Mr Gath further added Novena Rose NZ tied up badly subsequent to fast working yesterday (18 July 2017) and the mare will be treated accordingly.
Kilmore – 13 July 2017
RACE 4 – EMPIRE STALLIONS VICBRED SUPER SERIES (3YO FILLIES) BRONZE PACE
John F Ryan, trainer of Diamond Grace, has reported that the filly pulled up flat subsequent to the race. Mr Ryan added he was of the opinion that Diamond Grace might be suffering from a virus and has sent the filly to the spelling paddock.
Cobram – 16 July 2017
RACE 6 – ARTAVILLA EMPORIUM PACE
Mark Watson, trainer of Recork, has reported that the mare pulled up well subsequent to the race. Mr Watson reaffirmed the evidence of Nathan Jack, driver of Recork, that the mare failed to handle the quick back up from her most recent start at Shepparton on 11 July 2017 and added that Recork also had to endure a hard run at Shepparton. Mr Watson further added that the mare was left without cover too far out from the finish at Cobram and that Recork’s best performances have been when driven with cover for as long as possible and saved for one sprint late in her races and the mare will be driven as such in the future.
