Ohoka Connor primed for Green Mile

Ohoka Connor (Sunshine Beach, $2.50FF) will be looking to add to his outstanding harness racing resume today in the Methven 4 Square Supermarket Green Mile at Mt Harding racecourse.

The three-year-old has been phenomenal in his short career, winning seven from his eights starts. His most recent win came on Show Day at Addington.

Co-trainer Steve Telfer reports the gelding is on song going into today’s assignment.

“He seems well. He’s come through that run really good,” said Telfer.

Having his first start on the grass surface should not hinder Ohoka Connor as he is well-gaited and comes with a lot of versatility.

“He’s a good mover and a good pacer. There should not be any problems. I think he’ll be fine.

“There’s a few good seasoned grass trackers in there. So Tim (Williams) will just let him balance up early and see how he feels. He’s a very adaptable horse. He’s got more speed than most people know.”

There are several other chances in the event, including last start New Zealand Cup runner One Change ($15.00FF) for Amber Hoffman, the well proven Franco Norton ($5.50FF) for Steve McRae, and Franco Marek ($3.60FF) for Greg Manson also in the market.

The focus for Ohoka Connor will then shift to the Garrards New Zealand Derby at Addington on December 10th. After that the Telfers will sit down and plot out the gelding’s summer schedule.

“We may look at a few country cups. There’s a few down south that look suitable. We will just pick a path through.”

Earlier on the programme Telfer will also line up newcomer to the barn Glengarry Moonlight in race 4. The Auckland Reactor five-year-old has trialed satisfactorily.

“He’s got lovely manners at home, and his trial was quite good. It’s just a starting point for him today. Whatever he does today he will benefit from.”

In the trotters version of the Green Mile, it looks to be last start Group 1 Dominion Handicap winner Oscar Bonavena’s race to lose, and he go around a very short favourite ($1.40FF).

Dangers include Mystic Max ($5.00FF) for Michael Purdon and Confessional ($6.00FF) for Paul Nairn.

For complete race entries, click here.

by Mike Love, for Harness Racing New Zealand