Invercargill HRC will host nine races at Ascot Park tomorrow and local harness racing trainer Kirstin Green should have a part to play.

Five year old gelding Shergar (Bettor’s Delight) is getting close to winning. He ran a solid fourth at Riverton on Sunday and Race One tomorrow looks like a winnable race for him.

“It does, but he’s been knocking on the door for a long time. He’s going to win a race but I’m not sure if it’s this week or next week,” Green said.

Garonne (The Best Madrik) is trotting well. He was beaten by a nose at Riverton and gets his chance to win his maiden in Race Three.

“I’ve been really happy with him in his last two starts. He’s put it together. He’s in the same boat as Shergar. He’s circling the pot but what day he lands, I’m not sure.”

In Race Four, Skinny Dippin (Downbytheseaside) gets her chance from the one draw. She was third on debut behind a couple of smart horses in Side Hustle and Ebonezy. After running seventh at her next start she was spelled, but she’s had two workouts in preparation for tomorrows race.

“She’s a lovely filly. She just hates the grit so we’ve been working on that. She should go a pretty good race. She’s our best bet.”

The Orange Roughy (Betterthancheddar) was spotted running on at his last start at Ascot Park. He draws midfield in Race Five.

“I’m really happy with him. He hit the line really strong. If he’d been a bit handier in the running I think he could have got it.  I’ve taken a bit of time to work him out but I think he’s starting to put it all together.”

Bobbies Rock (A Rocknroll Dance) faces a small but handy field in Race Six.

“I was initially disappointed with last weeks run at Riverton but I watched the replay and when you take into consideration that it was tough going up the rail, there was probably a bit more merit in the run. I’m going to let him rip and see what’s there. I think he’s pretty ready.”

Trotting mare Spiritinthesky (Father Patrick) was late getting clear at Riverton and ran home well for second. She has a good short course record and rates a chance in Race Seven.

“Real happy with her. She’s consistent and I think she’ll be in the first three.”

For complete race entries, click here. 

by Bruce Stewart, for Harnesslink