By Mike Love
Ashburton trainer Laurence Hanrahan is not expecting the world from his two runners at Ashburton today – but does expect good runs.
In Race 1, the Ashburton Trotting Club Members Mobile Pace Elite Styx ($7.50FF) will step out for what is her first run in the Hanrahan colours with Gerard O’Reilly to drive.
Elite Styx has not raced since running third at Addington back in January when trained by Grant Payne, but has won a trial for Hanrahan since then on April 22.
“I have had her a while now,” says Hanrahan.
The six-year-old Betting Line mare won five from 47 starts for previous trainer Greg Payne before the move.
“She’s won a trial but didn’t break any records.
“She will definitely benefit from the run. It’s a good starting point for a new campaign.”
Other chances in the event include the fresh up $1.95FF favourite Music Mistress and Tim Williams for trainers Steve and Amanda Telfer, while second favourite Tact Teena ($5.00FF) for trainer Mark Jones, driven by Samantha Ottley will be right in the fight.
Race 6 will see the junior drivers in action in the Newlands Auto Electrical Mobile Pace over 1700m with Bautista ($6.00FF) for Olivia Thornley and Hanrahan.
The four-year-old Art Major gelding has been racing very well this campaign, but today looks to be his biggest test to date – drawn the outside of the frontline over 1700m.
“It definitely won’t be easy,” said Hanrahan.
“1700m around Ashburton is hard with a big long straight. So we may let the fireworks happen and wait for our shot at them.”
Other chances in the event include race favourite Rockingood ($3.00FF) for driver Seth Hill, driving for father Brendon Hill, who is facing the rise in class from maidens for the first time, while Carbon ($6.50FF) for Nikita Burton will look to keep the in-form Telfer stable on track.
Race 1 is set to go at 11:34am.
