Buckskin chasing more grass track glory

Greendale trainer Rob Davis knows it won’t be easy for Buckskin ($12.00FF) as he vies for a second Akaroa Cup victory, at Methven on Sunday.

The 10-year-old American Ideal gelding is fourth up this campaign, and comes into Race 10, the Cavalier Trotting Products Akaroa Pace (4.13pm) over 3000m off the back of a strong second to Semba on the same track last week, adding to his excellent course record.

“He has worked on really well and seems happy and healthy. He’s just had one hopple through the week. He doesn’t take much work once he’s up and racing,” says Davis. 

“It’s a stronger field this week, but he begins so well and can get himself handy, which will make a huge difference to his chances.” 

Obvious dangers are the Steve and Amanda Telfer pair, Tact Teva ($4.60FF), who is backing up after his win in the Timaru Spring Cup a couple of weeks ago, and Iron Brigade ($5.50FF), who is second-up from a fair fresh performance at Addington last Friday night.

Both runners will need to contend with a 35m handicap, along with Bruntwood Brigade ($7.50FF) for Robert and Jenna Dunn in the 16-horse field.

“He loves Methven,” says Davis. 

Buckskin has won four times at Methven, and twice at the distance. Davis is no stranger to having the Akaroa Cup on his mantelpiece after Buckskin’s win in 2022.

“He came from about five back the fence to win that day. It was probably one of his better runs.” 

Sarah O’Reilly has driven Buckskin in most of his 127 starts, and in 11 of his 12 wins, only missing when she was sidelined with injury.

“She knows him so well and puts him in the race. She’s an excellent driver.” 

Buckskin is likely to head for a freshener after Sunday before tackling a busy grass track racing spring and summer where he has won 10 of his 12 races.

“He probably doesn’t have another race until the end of November. He’ll go away for a week or two for a break.”

In addition to the 2022 Akaroa Cup, Buckskin has also won the Kawitiri Cup in the same year, and two Hororata Cups in 2023 and 2025, amassing over $150,000 in stakes.

Buckskin is raced by Rob and his wife Christine.

Note: FF (Fixed Field) odds can fluctuate, so check tab.co.nz for the latest information.

To see the Akaroa Cup field click here 

by Mike Love, for Harness Racing New Zealand