West Melton trainer-driver Sam Thornley is looking for a few more things to do today when he lines up two runners on the second day of the Westport harness racing meeting.
His runners Captain Publisher and Son E both ran well without threatening, as they could have done on day one, and Thornley believes they will both have a chance to make amends.
Captain Publisher ($1.75FF) gets his chance in Race 4, the Graeme and Joan McMaster Pace over 2000 metres.
“He went huge on the first day. He hasn’t really blown much after that, so if he backs up he’s a good chance,” Thornley said.
Captain Publisher today moves closer to barrier three, which may or may not help his cause.
“He got away well in his first two starts for me, but ruined it on the first day. He just needs to get away from the score.”
Runners who could benefit from any mistakes made by Captain Publisher include Bella Ciao ($4.20FF) and Ultimatum ($6.00FF).
Thornley and Son E ($3.80FF) line up in Race 6, the Bernie Stewart Memorial Handicap Trot over 2600m.
Son E trotted awkwardly on the first day, with Thornley putting this down to the Sundon gelding becoming a little enthusiastic in running.
“He trotted rough late in the race on the first day and got a little excited when they came by.”
Son E will start from a 10m handicap, as he did on the first day, and is usually a fast beginner and is pulled behind Prince Teka, who likes to walk and run.
“He wants to have a good run and it could turn out quite well.”
Day one winner Jasprit Trouble ($4.50FF) drops back 10 meters and starts today on a par with Son E.
Thornley also has three other rides today, including Always Bee Gee ($5.00FF) for trainer Chris McDowell in Race 1, the Apparelmaster Mobile Pace over 2600 meters.
“He should progress and have a good trip. He should improve again from day one.”
Race 3 will see the Donaldson Farm Mobile Pace over 2600 meters I’m All In ($35.00FF) and Thornley meet again for trainer Ross Houghton. I’m All In in the lead on day one, but today different tactics will be needed from the second row draw.
“Last time it wasn’t really up to him to be in front. The blinds continue today and it will be a different run today. It should be a top five finish with a good run.”
Thornley and Brent Borcoskie will partner My Wingman ($6.50FF) in Race 7, the Westport Water Services Handicap Pace over 2600 metres.
“With any run it would be a very good opportunity.”
Thornley also takes over the battle at Helloveamoment ($51.00FF) for trainer Andrew Garters with big expectations in Race 9, the Durban Chief Westport Trotters Cup over 3200 meters.
“It’s quite difficult at twenty meters away.”
Thornley has won 66 races this season and sits third in the Junior Drivers Premiership with Harrison Orange.
Leading the premiership, jointly on 90 wins, are Carter Dalgety and Wilson House, with just three days of the season remaining.
For full race entries, click here.
Through Mike Lovefor Harness Racing New Zealand
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