Launceston Cup Trivia and Facts

Thursday, 13 February 2003 00:00

FACTS ABOUT THE AAMI LAUNCESTON CUP

 Following are some interesting facts, snippets and fillers about the history and tradition of the AAMI Launceston Cup.

AAMI Launceston Cup Day Wednesday, February 26, 2003 at Mowbray.

Historic thoroughbred race

The $200,000 AAMI Launceston Cup (Group 3) on February 26 is one of Tasmania’s oldest races. It was first run in 1865 as the Champion race with between 6000 to 7000 people attending the Mowbray course. The cup name was added the following year to become the Launceston Champion Cup. The inaugural winner was the six-year-old Panic, an English import some four years earlier and a stallion who mixed stud duties with racing. Even in those times, interstate trainers eyed the rich prize with six Victorian entrants challenging four from Tasmania. The race was run over three-miles with Panic winning easily in 5min. 53 sec.

The 1866 winner of the AAMI Launceston Cup was Strop, sired by Panic and returning a better winning time of 5min.48sec.

Strop was sensational

The 16.1 hands gelding Strop retains a special place in AAMI Launceston Cup folklore. He made his racing debut when winning the race as a four-year-old in 1866 and added three more victories in this race – in 1869, 1874 and in 1876. He was the first to complete the AAMI Hobart Cup-Launceston Cup double and it’s remarkable that he achieved these 1876 successes as a 14-year-old.

Oliver travels

Victoria’s premier jockey Damien Oliver has won the AAMI Launceston Cup twice and in successive years. Oliver won on King’s Landing for trainer Ken Sweeney in 1998 and scored on the Robert Smerdon-trained four-year-old gelding Streak in 1999.

Eight unique jockeys

Top Tasmanian jockey Stephen Maskiell joined the ranks of an elite few last year when he became one of only eight jockeys to win the AAMI Hobart-Launceston Cups in the same season.

Maskiell partnered the George Blacker-trained St. Andrews when victorious in both of the Group 3 2400 metre events.

Other jockeys to have achieved the same feat are Harry White in 1988 (Brisque in Hobart, Superior Way in Launceston), Tommy Unkovich in 1949 on The Artist (both cups), Ossie Phillips in 1930 aboard Tarapunga (both cups), George Jordan in 1920 on Trusty Blade (both cups, although he dead-heated in Hobart), P O’Neill aboard Ladino (Hobart) and Ordella (Launceston) in 1918, J Hayes on Chesterfield in both cups of 1903 and J Lang on Spark in 1877 (both cups).

Recent riding records

Jockey Stephen Maskiell has the best recent record of AAMI Launceston Cup successes with three victories – all for trainer George Blacker. They teamed for Bitter Spring’s win in 1991 and the dual victories of St. Andrews in 2000 and 2002.

Those with two AAMI Launceston Cup successes are Tasmania’s Corey Kingston (1995 and 1996) and Victoria’s Damien Oliver (1998 and 1999).

Free Beer

Free Beer was the toast of Tasmania in 1996 when winning the AAMI Launceston Cup for a second time. However, a year earlier he was 66/1 and the race’s longest priced winner. He is the last horse to have won the event in successive years. The victories provided trainer Gary White with a tally of three AAMI Launceston Cups following an earlier success with Scruples in 1985.

Free Beer’s successive victories have credited jockey Corey Kingston with two AAMI Launceston Cups.

More recently, the George Blacker-trained St.Andrews has gone close to achieving the hat-trick having won the AAMI Launceston Cup in 2000 and 2002 and runner-up when carrying 56kg behind Full Of Rhythm in 2001.

Training records

Former jockey Bill Clare trained nine AAMI Launceston Cup winners between 1885 and 1911, but the nearest of the modern-day trainers are Gary White and George Blacker with three wins each. White had winners in 1985 (Scruples) and 1995-96 (Free Beer), while Blacker was successful in 1991 (Bitter Spring) and 2000 and 2002 (both with St. Andrews). Trainers with dual victories include Len Dixon (Jessephenie, 1979; Andrias, 1982) and Tony Vasil (Diamond Bases, 1993; Full Of Rhythm, 2001).

Hobart-Launceston Cup double

St. Andrews stamped himself as one of Tasmania’s best stayers when becoming the first horse since the mighty New Zealander Brallos in 1976 and 1977 to win the AAMI Hobart and Launceston Cups in the same year. There are now 16 horses to have completed the feat.

However, Brallos, trained by Tom Luxton, was an iron horse, having taken out all features in those seasons with the 1976-77 Devonport Cup wins being the first of his trebles.

Media Release - AAMI Launceston Cup

Lions to Roar in Cup After Top Draw

Wednesday, 05 February 2003 00:00

The Mighty Lions, prepared by Melbourne Cup-winning trainer Michael Moroney, has drawn barrier two in the field of 17 and her outstanding recent form could be enough to sway punters to install her favourite for the Group 3 race.

The mare was a gallant last-start second to Tio Belle in the Visit Handicap (2020m) at Caulfield on January 18 after working no better than three-wide for almost the entire trip and Moroney says The Mighty Lions is right on target to notch her first Group win.

In-form jockey John Didham has been booked to ride The Mighty Lions, who is one of seven interstate invaders to line up in the AAMI Hobart Cup.

While The Mighty Lions fared well at the barrier draw, it was bad news for the Tony McEvoy-trained Jeune’s Mark, drawing the outside gate and his jockey Stephen Baster will need to use every bit of his talent to give his mount a winning chance.

However, Jeune’s Mark is already in Tasmania acclimatising in readiness for next Monday’s big race.

McEvoy opted to send his cup hope by sea instead of using the air service that will fly AAMI Hobart Cup and Tasmanian Derby candidates into the state on Saturday.

AAMI Hobart Cup topweight Stoway, from the Gai Waterhouse stable, drew well in gate 10, which should enable his rider Danny Beasley to find a good position in the run to the first turn.

The Leon Macdonald-trained mare Glitzy Guru will have to cope with barrier 15 and last year’s AAMI Hobart and AAMI Launceston Cups winner St. Andrews will start alongside Macdonald’s mare in gate 14.

Of the local hopes, classy mare Abbadena drew gate 12, but the best served were Jockey Club Cup winner Us And Maka in barrier six and 2000 AAMI Hobart Cup winner Lord Baracus next door in barrier seven.

Last-start Flemington winner It’s Rysek was a shock omission from final declarations. The gelding was to be ridden by top jockey Damien Oliver and would have been the likely favourite for the race had he made the trip.

 It’s Rysek’s trainer Richard Freyer cited unsuitable transport arrangements as the reason for him not accepting for the race.

Media Release - AAMI Hobart Cup

McEvoy Snaps Up Maskiell to Ride Saturday Fever

Wednesday, 12 February 2003 00:00

Tasmania's premier jockey Stephen Maskiell has been booked to ride the highly promising Tony McEvoy-trained Saturday Fever in the Group 3 $200,000 AAMI Launceston Cup (2400m) at Mowbray on February 26.

Maskiell, who rode St. Andrews to victory in last year’s AAMI Hobart and Launceston Cups, was without a ride in the region’s premier race.

Maskiell watched last Monday’s AAMI Hobart Cup from the comfort of the jockeys’ room but McEvoy has given the ace hoop the chance to win his fourth AAMI Launceston Cup.

Saturday Fever is a promising four-year-old on the way up with two wins and a last-start second over 2400m at Sandown from his past three outings and McEvoy was very keen to send the gelding to Tasmania.

This will give McEvoy a two-pronged attack on the AAMI Launceston Cup as his AAMI Hobart Cup winner Jeune’s Mark has pulled up a treat after blitzing his rivals last Monday and will attempt the Cups double.

McEvoy confirmed today that Maskiell would ride Saturday Fever.

"I have been keen to run Saturday Fever in the AAMI Launceston Cup for some time and the connections also are keen, so he will head to Tasmania next week, most likely by sea, as was the case with Jeune’s Mark," McEvoy said.

"When I heard that Stephen Maskiell was without a ride in the race I was keen to secure him for Saturday Fever because he (Maskiell) has a great record in the race and is one of the state’s best riders," the trainer said.

Maskiell was thrilled to have secured the ride.

"It was tough watching the AAMI Hobart Cup from the sidelines on Monday, so I am more determined than ever to make the most of this opportunity," Maskiell said.

"Tony McEvoy is an excellent trainer and I am delighted that he has the confidence in me to ride his horse," he said.

Maskiell will create a modern day record if he is successful aboard Saturday Fever as no jockey, post war, has ridden more than six AAMI Hobart and or AAMI Launceston Cups.

Maskiell has ridden three of each: AAMI Hobart Cups - Nakagima (1989), Russian Rogue (1992) and St. Andrews (2002); AAMI Launceston Cups - Bitter Spring (1991) and St. Andrews (2000 and 2002).

McEvoy also confirmed Stephen Baster will retain the ride on Jeune’s Mark for the AAMI Launceston Cup.

PIC - Saturday Fever wins at Victoria Park two starts back. (Jenny Barnes).

Media Release - AAMI Launceston Cup

Bargain Buy Liquid Lunch Primed for Tassie Feature

Monday, 03 February 2003 00:00

Liquid Lunch burst into AAMI Hobart Cup calculations with a powerful win at Caulfield last month, defeating Mapua in an open handicap over 1800 metres.

The gelding was unplaced at his subsequent outing when unsuited by a slow pace in a race at Caulfield over 2020m and last Sunday the galloper fine-tuned his AAMI Hobart Cup preparation with a dashing second in the Prime TV Cup (1600m) at Moe.

Trainer Pat Hyland was delighted with the gelding’s run last Sunday and expects him to be very hard to beat in the AAMI Hobart Cup.

"We paid only $10,000 for this horse and he’s already won well over $60,000 in stakes in the three months we’ve had him and if we can win the AAMI Hobart Cup, he probably wouldn’t have to win another race to make him the best buy of the year," Hyland said.

"He has yet to be tried beyond 2020m but he gives me the impression he’ll get the trip and he has been trained specifically for a 2400m race, which is why I was so delighted with how he ran at Moe on Sunday," the trainer said.

Liquid Lunch dashed around the field last Sunday and worked home strongly to finish second to Gold Robe, with Thunder Bay a close-up third.

Liquid Lunch is owned and raced by the trainer’s son, Christopher Hyland, who is his father’s right hand man in the training operation.

"Christopher is the assistant trainer of the business but when it comes to Liquid Lunch, I often feel like I’m the assistant trainer and he’s the boss," Hyland said jokingly.

The AAMI Hobart Cup has been Liquid Lunch’s main objective since he won at Yarra Glen on January 2.

"I have been toying with the idea of running him in the AAMI Hobart Cup since he won a race at Yarra Glen and he has since done everything I’ve asked of him, both in races and on the training track," Hyland said.

Hyland said top Tasmanian jockey Stephen Maskiell was most likely to take the AAMI Hobart Cup ride.

"I had hoped that Craig Newitt would ride my horse because he won on him at Caulfield but he has been booked on another horse so we are negotiating with Stephen Maskiell and he is likely to take the ride in the Cup," Hyland said.

Maskiell is Tasmania’s most successful jockey and has two AAMI Hobart Cups to his credit, the latest being last year aboard the George Blacker-trained St. Andrews.

St. Andrews is running in next Monday’s race but Kelvin Sanderson has been booked for the ride.

Media Release - AAMI Hobart Cup

David's Entire Set for Launceston Arena

Wednesday, 12 February 2003 00:00

The David Hall-trained four-year-old took his career tally to five wins from only 11 starts and connections confirmed after the race that the AAMI Launceston Cup (2400m) would be the entire’s next main mission.

"We had earmarked the AAMI Launceston Cup as an ideal race for this horse and after this win at Flemington, I can confirm he will be heading to Tasmania for the Launceston Cup on February 26," said trainer Hall.

Arena Valadora was originally handicapped to carry 51kg but the handicapper, Bernie McKay responded swiftly to the stallion’s effortless victory last Sunday by slapping a 1.5kg penalty on Hall’s rising star.

Meanwhile, the connections of Monday’s AAMI Hobart Cup winner Jeune’s Mark have confirmed the gelding will stay in Tasmania to contest the AAMI Launceston Cup.

Jeune’s Mark made a one-act affair of the AAMI Hobart Cup, leading all the way to easily defeat The Mighty Lions and local hero St. Andrews.

It was a masterful ride by Stephen Baster on Jeune’s Mark. He urged his charge forward early from the outside gate but used up little fuel to find the lead and after enjoying a cushy run in front for most of the race the well-bred gelding bounded clear in the home straight and was never threatened.

Jeune’s Mark earned a 2.5kg penalty for the AAMI Launceston Cup and will now carry 54.5kg in that race at Mowbray on February 26.

Meanwhile, last year’s dual AAMI Hobart-Launceston Cups winner St. Andrews will have Victorian Noel Callow as a new rider for the AAMI Launceston Cup.

Callow was booked to ride the eight-year-old gelding before last Monday’s AAMI Hobart Cup in which the gelding was partnered by top local jockey Kelvin Sanderson.

Tasmania’s premier jockey Stephen Maskiell lost the ride on St. Andrews for both Cups two weeks before the AAMI Hobart Cup.

Sanderson said he is disappointed in missing the ride in the Launceston feature race.

"I think the horse needed the run in the AAMI Hobart Cup and he will be at his peak for the AAMI Launceston Cup," Sanderson said.

"I am disappointed that I won’t be riding the horse, but I just want everyone to know that Noel Callow was booked for the ride on St. Andrews in that race before the AAMI Hobart Cup.

"I don’t want anyone thinking that I was dumped from the horse because of a bad ride or something, It was just matter of the trainer wanting Callow on for the Launceston race and he would have been on him even if I had won on Monday," Sanderson said.

First acceptors for the AAMI Launceston Cup.

ST. ANDREWS 58.5
ASCANA 54.5
BRORAMA STAR 53.0
GLITZY GURU 53.0
LIQUID LUNCH 52.5
LORD BARACUS 52.5
SATURDAY FEVER 52.5
JEUNE’S MARK 52.0 plus 2.5kg penalty
MURPHY’S MAGIC 52.0
COCORICO 51.5
PAPPA BEAR 51.5
THE MIGHTY LIONS (NZ)51.5
TIO BELLE (NZ) 51.5
US AND MAKA 51.5
MARETTE 51.0 ** (+0.5)
DARTINGTON 51.0 ** (+0.5)
ALMOST SPRING 51.0 ** (+0.5)
FATHER FLOYD 51.0
TEROUGE 51.0
O’CONNOR STREET 51.0
ARENA VALADORA 51.0 *plus 1.5kg penalty
STRAIT DASH 51.0
UNDERTAKE 51.0
MUCHO DINERO 51.0
SUPER CLASSIC 51.0
I’LL GET BY 51.0
RENT AND RHYTHM 51.0
MR SOHO 51.0

** Denotes Mares Allowance
* Denotes Penalty

Total 1st Acceptances 28

PIC - Quentin Lang.

Media Release - AAMI Launceston Cup

Oliver Hunts Tasmanian Feature With It's Rysek

Monday, 03 February 2003 00:00

Oliver rode It’s Rysek to victory in the Gurner’s Lane Handicap (2560m) at Flemington on Saturday and declared the gelding was "right on song for the AAMI Hobart Cup".

The handicapper reacted to the win by penalising It’s Rysek one kilogram in the AAMI Hobart Cup to push the gelding’s weight to 55kg.

Oliver has won back-to-back AAMI Launceston Cups aboard Kings Landing in 1998 and Streak the following year but an AAMI Hobart Cup success has eluded the champion hoop.

Freyer, who has been training with success in the Riverina district for about 30 years, has had the AAMI Hobart Cup in mind since the gelding ran on powerfully to finish second in the Bagot Handicap at Flemington on New Year’s Day.

"When Damien got off the horse after the Bagot he said he would be an ideal horse for the AAMI Hobart Cup and that he (Oliver) would like to win that race because he’s won two AAMI Launceston Cups but not the AAMI Hobart Cup," Freyer said.

"I have always believed this horse would develop into a very good stayer and what he’s done this preparation has convinced me even more that staying is his forte," the trainer said.

Freyer paid $50,000 for It’s Rysek as an unraced two-year-old at a ready to run sale in Sydney and given the gelding’s latest form it would suggest it was money well spent.

It’s Rysek has won at four of his past five outings of which four have been over 2400m or beyond.

"The way he won on Saturday convinced me he can win the AAMI Hobart Cup," Freyer said.

"I’ve thought for a long time that this horse would excel when he gets over a bit of ground and if everything goes to plan we could even be looking at the Melbourne Cup," he said.

PIC - Quentin Lang.

Jeune's Mark Continues Tony's Run in Tasmania

Monday, 10 February 2003 00:00

In form trainer Tony McEvoy continued his great run of stakes race success in Tasmania when the bold front runner Jeune's Mark scored a terrific win in the Group Three Hobart Cup (2400m) at Elwick this afternoon.

Fresh off a win in Saturday's listed Strutt Stakes with the promising staying filly Flag of Pride, McEvoy was again celebrating a feature win thanks to the son of former Melbourne Cup winner and Horse of the Year Jeune.

Despite jumping from the extreme outside barrier and clashing with one of the strongest Hobart Cups in history, the talented Lindsay Park performer proved a class above his rivals cruising home to win by nearly three lengths.

Starting at 16/1, the five-year-old was ridden to victory by leading melbourne based jockey Stephen Baster.

McEvoy was not in Tasmania today rather spotting potential stable stars at the Inglis Premier Yearling Sale in Melbourne. But he was not surprisingly thrilled with the success.

"It was a super win," McEvoy said after the win. "He did an amazing job to come from the outside barrier and still win so well."

Jeune's Mark will remain in Tasmanian to contest the second feature staying event on the Island, the Group Three Launceston Cup at Mowbray on February 26.

"That race looks ideal as it is over the same distance and will have a pretty similar field to todays," McEvoy added.

McEcoy's Cup win today followed up the impressive listed Strutt Stakes success of the promising filly Flag of Pride on the same track on Saturday.

With talented heavyweight rider Shayne Cahill in the saddle, the daughter of Personal Flag proved too good for a top line up three-year-old fillies to win the genuine lead up to the Tasmanian Oaks.

"She now looks a great chance in the (Tasmanian) Oaks after her win on Saturday," McEvoy noted.

PIC - Jenny Barnes.

Hobart (Tas)

Sunday, 02 February 2003 00:00

TRACK: GOOD
WEATHER: FINE
RAIL: OUT 7 METRES – ENTIRE CIRCUIT

* Jockey Brendon McCoull advised Stewards at 8.40 am that he would be unable to fulfil his riding engagements today due to illness. Stewards advised him that he is to present a medical certificate declaring him fit to ride before he resumes riding in track work, trials or races.

† Jockey Kellie Cook advised Stewards that she would be unable to fulfill her riding engagements today due to illness. Stewards will advise her that she is to present a medical certificate declaring her fit to ride before she resumes riding in track work, trials or races.

RACE 1 - TRIPLE T SUPERVOBIS 2-Y-O MAIDEN PLATE
SET WEIGHTS – 1100 METRES - 12 RUNNERS

The start of this race was delayed when BORN A QUEEN (K Dodge) proved a little fractious whilst being loaded into its barrier stall.

HAIL THE GANG (L Goodrick) and GOOD GOD (D Pires A) were slow to begin.

GOOD GOD (D Pires A) raced greenly throughout.

CLASS EDITION (C Kingston) had to be momentarily steadied at about the 200 metre mark when FINE OMENS (S Maskiell) shifted outwardly slightly.

Approaching the 100 metre mark, HAIL THE GANG (L Goodrick) who was laying in, had to be eased off the heels of ROLY KEN (K Lewis) and switched outwards to obtain a clear run.

HARPIST (S Snell) laid in in the home straight.

A swab sample was taken from the winner of the race FINE OMENS (Trainer Charlie Goggin).

RACE 2 - QANTAS MAIDEN PLATE – 3-Y-O & UPWARDS – SET WEIGHTS
DIVISION 1 - 1400 METRES - 12 RUNNERS

Trainer Kevin Denny was charged $27.50 for the use of the Club’s colours on BYE ALL SEASONS.

The start of this race was delayed when HEARTLESS (C Burt) underwent a veterinary inspection after proving difficult to load into its barrier stall. The Club’s veterinary surgeon subsequently passed the gelding fit to take its place with the field.

WESTELLE (C Kingston) was slow away at the start.

Shortly after the start, MATSONATION (D Pires A) commenced to hang in and shifted in abruptly despite the efforts of its rider. As a result of this movement SMART SIGNAL (S Maskiell), LANGKAWI (J Borrett) and MISS ENTREVEAUX (S Snell) were inconvenienced. Both LANGKAWI (J Borrett) and MISS ENTREVEAUX (S Snell) had to be checked by their respective riders. Jockey J Borrett, the rider of LANGKAWI, reported to Stewards that as a result of the interference suffered in the early part of this event, she was unable to ride to instructions, which were to race from a forward position.

ALIOCHA’S CRAVING (D Keating A) raced ungenerously for a number of strides between the 1200 and the 900 metre marks.

DENON (L Goodrick) was held up for a number of strides rounding the home turn at about the 450 metre mark and thereafter had a tendency to lay in in the home straight.

A post-race veterinary inspection of SMART SIGNAL (Trainer Charlie Goggin) failed to reveal any obvious abnormalities.

A post-race veterinary inspection of MATSONATION (Trainer P E Jones) revealed the gelding to have a laceration on its off-hind pastern.

A swab sample was taken from the winner of the race MATSONATION (Trainer P E Jones).

RACE 3 - NINE ELEVEN BOTTLE SHOP MAIDEN PLATE
3-Y-O & UPWARDS - DIVISION 2 - 1400 METRES
12 RUNNERS

LORD OF THE TURF (P Michaelides) jumped out at the start and contacted with THE SCOUSE DEVIL (S Snell). As a result LIBBIANNE (S Tsaikos) was carried out slightly which in turn hampered BIONIC BOY (K Lewis) to its outside.

LORD OF THE TURF (P Michaelides) over-raced in the early stages.

THE SCOUSE DEVIL (S Snell) was momentarily steadied off the heels of RUNALOT (C Burt) at about the 1000 metre mark and thereafter was momentarily held up at about the 450 metre mark.

RACE 4 - CASCADE DRAUGHT MAIDEN PLATE
3-Y-O & UPWARDS - SET WEIGHTS - 1100 METRES
12 RUNNERS

The announcement of correct weight was delayed when the rider of the third placegetter COVINGTON (S Tsaikos), wished to view the video with a view to lodging a protest. After viewing the video of the early part of this event, Jockey Tsaikos indicated that he did not wish to lodge a protest.

However, Stewards were still unable to announce correct weight as the rider of the winner HE’S QUICK (S Snell) weighed in more than half a kilogram under the weight at which he weighed out at. Acting under AR143, Jockey Snell (HE’S QUICK’S rider) opted to call for the bridle fitted to this horse and to be weighed with his bridle. After weighing in with the bridle, Jockey Snell weighed in at the correct weight. At a subsequent inquiry, Trainer W N McShane was found guilty of a charge under AR140A, the terms of the charge being that he was negligent when saddling HE’S QUICK by not including the lead bag, which the rider weighed out with and was subsequently fined $250.

FULL OF TRICKS (K Lewis) was slow into stride.

MALLOW (S Maskiell) jumped in at the start. At the same time CAMILLERI (P Michaelides) jumped outwards which resulted in AT ST GEROGES (D Keating A) and CAMILLERI (P Michaelides) making contact at the start. As a consequence of this AT ST GEORGES (D Keating A) lost some ground at the start.

A swab sample was taken from the winner of the race HE’S QUICK (Trainer W N McShane).

RACE 5 - PETER BAKOS MEMORIAL SUPERVOBIS
3-Y-O - CLASS 6 HANDICAP - 1600 METRES
7 RUNNERS

The start of this race was delayed when OLD EUGOWRA (S Tsaikos) broke through the front of its barrier stall and had to be re-loaded. The start was further delayed when DREI (L Goodrick) stood awkwardly in the barriers for some time.

Rounding the home turn at about the 400 metre mark, MIDNIGHT BREW (D Pires A) stumbled and lost its footing. Following this event, Stewards inspected the track in the vicinity where MIDNIGHT BREW stumbled and could find no obvious irregularities. An inquiry into this incident was adjourned to a date to be fixed.

A swab sample was taken from the winner of the race MIDNIGHT BREW (Trainer Garry Glover).

RACE 6 - QANTAS OWNERS DAY CLASS 2 HANDICAP
1400 METRES - 10 RUNNERS

Jockey C Burt, the rider of MR SOHO, reported at scale that this horse slipped at the start and as a result the gelding lost ground. Thereafter, she elected to take the horse forward as this was his normal racing pattern.

Approaching the 1100 metre mark, FLY GEORGIE (S Snell) shied away from runners to its outside and contacted with LORDS PLACE (S Maskiell) which resulted in LORDS PLACE becoming momentarily unbalanced.

SWEETWATER RIVER (W Stacey A) was held up for some distance over the concluding stages behind MR SOHO (C Burt) and was only able to obtain clear running over the last 50 metres of this event.

Stewards will question Trainer Gary White regarding the improved performance of DRY WHITE in today’s event.

A swab sample was taken from the second placegetter in this race DRY WHITE (Trainer Gary White).

RACE 7 - TOTE HANDICAP - 1600 METRES - 11 RUNNERS

Stewards questioned Jockey S Maskiell regarding the manner in which THE SPUNK was ridden in today’s event, in particular in relation to the riding tactics adopted. Jockey Maskiell explained that the horse jumped tardily and in addition got crowded shortly after the start between BUNDALAGUAH (D Pires A) and MATRIX HUNTER (C Kingston). As a result, he stated that he was forced to settle back in the field and he elected to settle towards the rear of the field given that there was a solid pace in front. Thereafter he asked the horse for a response leaving the 600 metre mark. Stewards also questioned Trainer C Goggin regarding the manner in which THE SPUNK was ridden today. Mr Goggin stated that it appeared that THE SPUNK became crowded at the start and was unable to take up a forward position. Mr Goggin stated that at no stage was it their intention to race the horse from a backward position but given the circumstances, he was satisfied with the decision made by Jockey Maskiell to race the horse from a backward position in view of the crowding which occurred at the start. Mr Goggin was also of the opinion that had it not been for today’s fast pace in the first half of the race, he believed the horse might not have finished off the race as it had. He also stated that the horse had missed the start on a prior occasion and in that particular instance, the gelding was ridden forward to take up its regular racing position but then compounded. When questioned about his future intentions as far as this horse’s racing is concerned, he stated that it depended on a number of factors but in principle he would endeavor that the horse races from a forward position if possible. Stewards also examined the betting activities in this event and could find no obvious irregularities. Stewards noted the explanations of both Jockey Maskiell and Trainer Goggin.

Stewards confirmed after viewing the video of the start of this race, that THE SPUNK (S Maskiell) became crowded shortly after the start between BUNDALAGUAH (D Pires A) and MATRIX HUNTER (C Kingston) who had shifted out slightly at the start. Stewards also noted that Jockey Maskiell had made an effort immediately upon jumping to encourage this horse to go forward.

A swab sample was taken from the winner of the race THE SPUNK (Trainer Charlie Goggin).

RACE 8 - SYDESTON CLASS 4 HANDICAP – 1600 METRES
10 RUNNERS

Jockey J Borrett was not shown in the race book as the rider of BELLARINE LAD. A public announcement was made to this effect prior to the start of the race.

Jockey S Maskiell, the rider originally declared to ride MAPS, was reprimanded and advised to ensure that he communicates in a manner that is timely and efficient to all concerned parties when he becomes aware that he will be unable to fulfil his riding engagements due to weigh restrictions AR-120(b).

Trainer C Goggin was reprimanded under LR-34(c) in that he failed to declare riders for the horses TRUST FUND and BELLARINE LAD by the time laid down for declaration of riders.

Approaching the 600 metre mark CARRINGTON STAR (P Michaelides) was awkwardly placed between BARKER (D Keating A) and DEI GRATIA (C Burt).

MAPS (S McFerran) was held up for a clear run between the 200 metres and the 100 metres and had to switch out over the concluding stages to obtain clear running and in doing so inconvenienced BELLARINE LAD (J Borrett) momentarily.

Over the concluding stages, HONOR BELLE (NZ) (C Kingston) was momentarily held up for a clear run behind DEI GRATIA (C Burt). Thereafter HONOR BELLE (NZ) shifted in and brushed with TRUST FUND (S Maskiell).

A post-race veterinary inspection of OTAKIMAN failed to reveal any obvious abnormalities.

A swab sample was taken from the winner of the race DEI GRATIA (Trainer W H Burt).

RACE 9 - OUTRIGGER RESORT CAIRNS CLASS 1 HANDICAP
1200 METRES - 9 RUNNERS

NOUGHT (S Maskiell) blundered at the start. At the same time EAST WEST (D Pires) jumped out at the start and contacted with NOUGHT (S Maskiell). Shortly thereafter EAST WEST became crowded between NOUGHT (S Maskiell) and HIDDEN MOMENT (S Snell).

Approaching the 1100 metre mark BRAGANZA (S Tsaikos) and EAST WEST (D Pires A) came together and contacted which resulted in BRAGANZA racing in tight room to the outside of EAST WEST and behind MR BUTTKICKA (K Moore).

MR BUTTKICKA (K Moore) had a tendency to over-race in the middle stages of the event.

HIDDEN MOMENT (S Snell) was momentarily inconvenienced at about the 100 metre mark to the outside of MR BUTTKICKA (K Moore) when this horse shifted out slightly.

GENERAL

Jockey Kevin Dodge tendered a medical certificate declaring him fit to fulfill his riding engagements at today’s race meeting.

Trainer Mr G E Blacker advised Stewards that Trainer Mr Troy Blacker will be acting on behalf of and taking responsibility for his runners at today’s race meeting.

Hobart (Tas)

Monday, 10 February 2003 00:00

* Apprentice Jockey Ruth Bradley advised Stewards at 10.30 am that she would be unable to fulfill her riding engagements today due to illness. Stewards advised her that she is to present a medical certificate declaring her fit to ride before she resumes riding in track work, trials or races.

RACE 1 - GREAT WESTERN MAIDEN PLATE - 1000 METRES

3-Y-O & UPWARDS - SET WEIGHTS - 16 RUNNERS

CHARMING PRETENDER (S Snell) jumped out at the start and contacted with MALLOW (S Maskiell) and thereafter became buffeted between MALLOW and MADE OF GUTS (J Nevin A).

CALAMITY ROSE (W Stacey A) jumped awkwardly at the start and thereafter raced ungenerously for some distance and at about the 600 metre mark, the mare clipped the heels of MADE OF GUTS (J Nevin A) racing to its immediate outside and stumbled. When questioned about this horse’s performance, Apprentice Stacey stated that after being loaded into the barriers, he noticed that the saddle on his mare needed adjustment. He also stated that notwithstanding him tightening the saddle on this horse, after jumping the saddle slipped forward and sideways, placing him at a disadvantage throughout the event. He also stated that the horse had a tendency to drop its head in running. Stewards noted Apprentice Stacey’s explanation. Stewards advised Trainer D Brazendale that in view of CALAMITY ROSE’s performance, the mare is to trial in a satisfactory manner prior to its next race start.

Shortly after straightening, GOLD SEQUEL (L Goodrick) had to be momentarily steadied when MALLOW (S Maskiell) shifted outwards.

A swab sample was taken from the winner of the race COVINGTON (Trainer Graeme McCulloch).

RACE 2 - CASCADE DRAUGHT CLASS 2 HANDICAP - 1200 METRES

8 RUNNERS

The announcement of correct weight was delayed when Jockey K Dodge, the rider of SHEEDS, wished to view the Judge’s photo in relation to the placings. After viewing the photo, Jockey Dodge was satisfied with the Judge’s placings.

SPRINGFIELD MAN (D Parish) dwelt at the start and was a fraction slow into stride.

DEAR SANTA (J Borrett) stumbled at the start.

Approaching the 200 metre mark PERFECT SKY (C Burt) and ARR DEE BEE (C Newitt A) came together and contacted.

A post-race veterinary inspection of DEAR SANTA (Trainer John Blacker) revealed the gelding to have a laceration on its off-fore heel.

A post-race veterinary inspection of ARR DEE BEE (Trainer Jenny James) revealed the mare to have a minor laceration on its off-hind fetlock.

A swab sample was taken from the winner of the race JAY KAY BEE (Trainer John Blacker).

RACE 3 - THORPE TRANSPORT CLASS 1 HANDICAP - 1100 METRES

12 RUNNERS

HE’S QUICK (S Snell) jumped out at the start and ELL HARMONEY (L Goodrick) jumped in which resulted in MOOFASTA (J Nevin A) becoming crowded for galloping room between these two runners.

DEVON’S BOY (D Keating A) and ALVA (K Sanderson) contacted shortly after the start and thereafter made contact for some distance. At about the 900 metre mark, ROMAN ECLIPSE (D Parish) which was laying in despite the efforts of its rider, shifted in when ROMANTIC SCORE (B McCoull) shifted in slightly and contacted with ALVA. As a result ROMAN ECLIPSE, ALVA and DEVON’S BOY made contact for a number of strides and as a consequence ALVA and DEVON’S BOY was checked and lost some ground on the field.

LIGHT RANK (L Currie) had a tendency to lay inwards in the straight.

A swab sample was taken from the winner of the race EASY AS (Trainer Edward Alderton).

RACE 4 - LOCAL INDEPENDENT LIQUOR STORES - LISTED

ELWICK 2-Y-O STAKES - NO CLAIMS - SET WEIGHTS

1200 METRES - 7 RUNNERS

Jockey D Gauci, the rider of QUEEN OF EGYPT, reported that he felt his filly was labouring a long way from home and felt flat in running. QUEEN OF EGYPT also had a tendency to lay in over the concluding stages.

FINE OMENS (C Newitt A) carried GEHENNA (S Snell) a little wider rounding the home turn just prior to straightening.

A post-race veterinary inspection of QUEEN OF EGYPT failed to reveal any obvious abnormalities.

RACE 5 - HEATH LAMBERT GROUP FILLIES AND MARES CLASS 2

HANDICAP - 1400 METRES - 7 RUNNERS

A post-race veterinary inspection of INFAMOUS ANGEL (Trainer G E Blacker) failed to reveal any obvious abnormalities.

A swab sample was taken from the winner of the race DREI (Trainer Charlie Goggin).

RACE 6 - TATTERSALL’S THOMAS LYONS STAKES - LISTED

NO CLAIMS - WFA - 1400 METRES - 10 RUNNERS

The announcement of correct weight was delayed when Jockey K Moore, the rider of CHARDERE, wished to view the Judge’s official photo in relation to the placings. After viewing the official photo and after taking a statement from the Judge Mr K Beck, Jockey Moore was satisfied with the Judge’s placings and Stewards announced correct weight.

Both CHARDERE (K Moore) and WEST QUEST BOY (J Borrett) over-raced in the early and middle stages of the event.

VIDEO FLYER (C Kingston) laid in from approximately the 600 metre mark onwards.

A swab sample was taken from the winner of the race UMRUM (Trainer Leon Macdonald).

RACE 7 - HOTEL GRAND CHANCELLOR CLASS 4 HANDICAP

1400 METRES - 13 RUNNERS

Notwithstanding the fact that the race book indicated that TURBULENT FORCE was to carry 54.5 kilograms, this horse was re-handicapped to carry 56 kilograms after winning on Saturday 8th February 2003.

MAPS (L Currie) was held up for a run shortly after straightening and had to shift to the outside of runners to obtain a clear run.

A post-race veterinary inspection of GLAMOUR BOY (Trainer Peter Luttrell) revealed the gelding had bled from his right nostril. The veterinary surgeon also reported that GLAMOUR BOY displayed an irregular heartbeat, suggestive of cardiac arrhythmia. In view of the Veterinary Surgeon’s report, Stewards will advise Trainer Peter Luttrell that prior to GLAMOUR BOY next starting in a race they would require a Veterinary Certificate verifying that the gelding had reverted to normal rhythm, supported by an electrocardiographic (ECG) examination report. In addition, Stewards advised that GLAMOUR BOY is to trial satisfactorily in an official barrier trial, after which it is to be auscultated by a Veterinarian immediately following the trial. The trial is to be as close as possible to race conditions.

A post-race veterinary inspection of MR FRISKY STAR (Trainer Vern Poke) revealed a minor cut to its near hind hock.

A swab sample was taken from the winner of the race TURBULENT FORCE (Trainer Neil Richardson).

RACE 8 - A.A.M.I. HOBART CUP HANDICAP - GROUP 3 - NO CLAIMS

2400 METRES - 17 RUNNERS

THE MIGHTY LIONS (NZ) (J Didham) jumped out at the start. As a result ALMOST SPRING (D Pires A) had to be steadied off its heels. Thereafter THE MIGHTY LIONS (NZ) and ALMOST SPRING over-raced in the early stages of the event.

GLITZY GURU (J Holder) over-raced in the early stages.

PAPPA BEAR (C Kingston) was held up for a number of strides at about the 450 metre mark.

STOWAY (D Beasley) had to switch in over the heels of CAREYES (C Newitt A) rounding the home turn shortly before straightening when CAREYES shifted outwards.

Rounding the home turn ABBADENA (S Snell) switched to the outside of ST ANDREWS (K Sanderson) to obtain clear running and brushed with THE MIGHTY LIONS (NZ) (J Didham). Thereafter, shortly after straightening ABBADENA (S Snell) was again held up for a clear run behind ST ANDREWS.

At about the 100 metre mark, LIQUID LUNCH (L Currie) switched in over the heels of GLITZY GURU (J Holder) and thereafter was held up for a clear run for a number of strides behind DARTINGTON (J Borrett)

The Club’s doctor was called to examine Jockeys Wayne Davis and Luke Currie following the running of this race and they were subsequently stood down from their remaining riding engagements on today’s programme. Stewards advised both riders that they are to present medical certificates declaring them fit to ride before they resume riding in track work, trials or races.

A post-race veterinary inspection of ST ANDREWS (G E Blacker) failed to reveal any obvious abnormalities.

A post-race swab sample was taken from the winner of the race JEUNE’S MARK (Trainer Tony McEvoy).

RACE 9 - CADBURY CLASS 6 HANDICAP - 2100 METRES - 9 RUNNERS

BELLSINGH (C Burt) threw its head up in the early stages of the event and raced ungenerously for some distance.. Thereafter this horse broke down at approximately the 1700 metre mark and dislodged its rider, Jockey C Burt. The Club’s veterinary surgeon reported that BELLSINGH had to be euthanased as the gelding had fractured its right shoulder. Jockey C Burt was examined by the Club’s medical doctor who declared her unfit to fulfil her riding engagements. Stewards advised her that she is to present a medical certificate declaring her fit to ride before she resumes riding in track work, trials or races. Stewards confiscated Jockey Burt’s skull cap following the event.

The saddle on NOUTURN (D Keating A) slipped forward in the middle stages of the event which placed Apprentice D Keating at a disadvantage for the remainder of the event. Apprentice Keating eased this gelding out of the race at approximately the 250 metre mark when he felt something amiss. A post-race inspection of NOUTURN revealed that this gelding had bled from both nostrils. Trainer John Luttrell was advised of the provisions of AR-53A (4) and NOUTURN may not be trained, exercised or galloped on any racecourse for a period of two (2) months and it may not start in any race for a period of three (3) months effective 10/02/2003, whereafter it is to satisfactorily trial over at least 1000 metres in the presence of a Steward.

I’LL GET BY (J Nevin A) shifted up the track under pressure over the concluding stages.

RACE 10 - SOUTHERN CROSS TELEVISION CLASS 1 HANDICAP

1600 METRES - 13 RUNNERS

EVENING SPIRIT was a late scratching at 4.48 pm by order of Stewards acting on veterinary advice as there was no rider available. Prior to the announcement of correct weight, Stewards ordered all monies invested on EVENING SPIRIT (10/1) prior to 4.48 pm to be refunded in full. All bets made prior to 4.48 pm to be paid less eight cents in the dollar on the face value of the win ticket and eight cents in the dollar on the value of the place ticket.

Stewards granted permission for Jockey K Sanderson to ride ENDLESS TALK 3½ kg overweight as there was no other rider available.

ENDLESS TALK (K Sanderson) reared as the gates opened resulting in Jockey Sanderson becoming unbalanced. As a consequence the horse was slow away.

Rounding the turn at the 1400 metre mark MATSONATION (D Pires A) shifted in slightly and in doing so carried BEGGAR (B McCoull) inwards which resulted in ST KINGSTON (D Parish) having to be restrained. As a consequence MY LOVER (C Kingston) became crowded between runners and had to be restrained by its rider. Apprentice Pires was advised to take fare greater care when shifting ground in future. Approaching the 1000 metre mark TERVORT (C Newitt A) and DEFRAUD (K Dodge) commenced to over-race for some distance when the pace slackened in front.

DEFRAUD (K Dodge) was momentarily held up for a clear run rounding the home turn.

FLASH CROWN (L Goodrick) was momentarily inconvenienced rounding the home turn when ASA MAC (D Keating A) shifted out slightly.

A swab sample was taken from the winner of the race ISLAND QUEST (Trainer John Keys).

GENERAL

Jockey B McCoull tendered a medical certificate declaring him fit to fulfil his riding engagements at today’s event.

Jockey K Moore tendered a medical certificate declaring him fit to fulfil his riding engagements at today’s event.

Trainer Gai Waterhouse advised Stewards that Mr Gerard Gilmore will be acting on behalf of and taking responsibility for her runner, STOWAY at today’s race meeting.

Pre-race blood swabs were taken from the following horses in Race 8:

GLITZY GURU Trainer Leon Macdonald
ABBADENA Trainer Troy Blacker
ARCHFORCE Trainer Clive Balfour
MURPHY’S MAGIC Trainer John Blacker
CAREYES Trainer Danny O’Brien
DARTINGTON Trainer John Blacker

It's Rysek on Hobart Cup Trial

Friday, 31 January 2003 00:00

It’s Rysek was an impressive winner over 2465m at Sandown on January 15 and his trainer Richard Freyer said the gelding only needs to finish in the first four on Saturday to be afforded a trip across Bass Strait for the AAMI Hobart Cup on February 10.

"It’s Rysek has done well since his last win and I would only need him to run an honest race on Saturday to confirm him as a definite AAMI Hobart Cup starter," Freyer said.

"I have never had a runner in the AAMI Hobart Cup so I am looking forward to this horse being my first starter in the race," he said.

Media Release - AAMI Hobart Cup