Wilson winning the battle with One Two Menny

Balfour harness racing trainer Robert Wilson loves his trotters. Sometimes they can test his patience but he’s up for the challenge.

One Two Menny (Majestic Son) hasn’t been straight forward, but Wilson knows he’s starting to win the battle. 

“He’s a bit of a pulling bugger, I’m doing everything I can to get him out of that and it’s working. He likes been in front, but we have to teach him to trail and run over longer distances,” he said after the gelding held on to win the $12,000 New World Winton Handicap Trot at Winton today.

Driver Kirk Larsen decided to press forward early, taking the lead and making the most of the front line draw.

Turning in, One Two Menny was trotting well but the backmarkers Jimmy Carter, Domination’s Call and Andy Hall were starting to make ground. However, the five year old held on to beat Domination’s Call by three quarters of a length with Mixed Faith which had trailed throughout, a neck back in third.

ONE TWO MENNY REPLAY

“Kirk said he’s the best he’s ever been. Kirk’s the man. He’s got a good understanding of the horse.”

Wilson engages Larsen to drive most of his team when he’s available. Although this has been happening in relatively recent times, their relationship goes back to the 1990s.

“He used to train for me and the Balfour Syndicate.”  

One Two Menny began his racing career with Ken Barron, winning once in thirteen starts before Wilson took up the challenge. Since he’s been under his care he’s won twice, finished second once and recorded two thirds.

“He’s developed into a lovely horse to have around and he’s come of age. I rate him. He’s got a bit of apple.”

The five year old is raced by the K Club Syndicate.

“They’re mainly from Timaru. They were looking for a small stable for this fella and they gave me a bell. I was very pleased they did.”

For complete race results, click here.

by Bruce Stewart, for Harnesslink