Three days later, Inarchatwist and Still Rockin head to the December 29 meeting on the Banks Peninsula for the Paul Renwick Joinery Motukarara Christmas Cup. Both are Country Cup races.
Gutsell will keep an eye on his forward Hacksaw Ridge from home in the Westport Cup as he prepares the other two for their assignments on the Banks Peninsula.
“He (Hacksaw Ridge) went to Robbie’s (Holmes),” Gutsell said.
The six year old A rock ‘n’ roll dance gelding has been sent to compete in the Westport Cup and, if all goes well, the Reefton Cup on the 30th.
“We’ve never been to the coast and I wanted to split them all up.”
Hacksaw Ridge races competitively and thrives on the grass surface.
“Being Country Cup races, I thought they would be within his reach and if he’s right, he shouldn’t be too far off.”
In his most recent attempt at Winton on December 14, he was caught three wide for the entire 2400 meters and still managed to hang on bravely for fifth place.
“It took him a bit of effort, he struggled a bit at Winton.
Gutsell believes the two miles will suit him well.
“The further the better. The breed seems to go on and on.”
Hacksaw Ridge will start today as favorite and will be driven by Robbie Holmes. Other odds in the event include Ted’s Legacy for trainer/driver Jim Curtin, Semba for Steve and Amanda Telfer, Bryce’s Meddle for Robert and Jenna Dunn and the back marker of 30 Smoke On The Water for trainer Matt Purvis.
“He will miss the second day of Westport and go to Reefton on the 30th if he gets through the race well.”
Hacksaw Ridge, Still Rockin and Insarchatwist are all by A Rocknroll Dance and out of the mare Insar. Together they have won 27 and over $330,000 in bets so far.
“We’re going to Reefton and looking at Hacksaw Ridge after Mot.”
Click to see the markets for the Westport Cup here
Race one in Westport starts at 12 noon.
Through Mike Lovefor Harness Racing New Zealand
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