Iceman looking for a hot night at the Park

Papakura harness racing trainer Tony Herlihy takes some well bred stock with winning chances to Alexandra Park tomorrow night (Jul. 14). 

In Race Two, Herlihy who is referred to by commentators as the Iceman, has three year old filly Luby Lill (What The Hill) down to start. Last season she competed in black print races and in her two starts as a three year old she’s finished third and second.  

“Those two runs have done her the world of good and she’s certainly a good each way chance,” Herlihy said. 

In Race Three Herlihy has three runners: Busload Of Faith (Always B Miki), which draws four, Jethro Bodine (Sweet Lou) draws five and Park Lane (Art Major) draws six. 

Busload Of Faith has raced greenly in his only two starts but the two thirds he’s achieved suggest he’s a good winning chance. 

“He’s has got a bit of potential, the big fella. He’s not the sharpest tool in the shed but he’s learning as he goes along. The future is all ahead of him because he’s got a little bit of get up and go about him.” 

Jethro Bodine starts in a fresh state after last racing in February. He ran second on debut. 

“He’s a bit stronger from when he was in last time. He’s a nice enough horse with a bit of a future so hopefully he goes a nice enough race.” 

Park Lane, a half-brother to the talented The Dorchester (Mach Three) draws gate six in an eight horse field. A last start third suggests a win isn’t too far away. 

“He can get a little bit keen in his races. If he settles somewhere handy on the outside he’ll be a chance of running into it. He’s got Maurice McKendry fresh up so that should be good (laughter).” 

In Race Four, Ordained (Father Patrick) runs off the ten metres mark over 2200 metres. He’ll have the jump on some of the better assessed trotters, Gaz Man (Majestic Son) and Liaison (Love You). 

“He won really well; the next start was a bit ordinary and the other night he was flat across the top but was looking for a run in the straight. He’s probably going to be better in twelve months time. With a bit of luck he could win some place money though.” 

In Race Seven three year old gelding Bettor Heist (Bettor’s Delight) draws one on the second row. He was seen running home late at his last start two weeks ago. 

“You either have good luck or bad luck from that draw. I’ve driven the one horse (Venturesome Arden) a couple of times and he goes good so I’m counting on Peter Ferguson leading so I can get a good run.” 

Herlihy has labelled Busload Of Faith as his best bet but also likes Bettor Heist if he can get some luck in the running. 

The first race at Alexandra Park in Auckland gets underway at 5-54pm and all races will be televised on Trackside 1. 

For complete race entries, click here.

by Bruce Stewart, for Harnesslink