Donnelly brings a strong team to Manawatu

Arna Donnelly has her sights set on the The Cobb Manawatu Cup with both Denny (Art Major) and Bad Medicine (Bettor’s Delight) starting in the six horse harness racing field this evening.

Denny was fourth on Tuesday after sitting parked, finishing 2.7 lengths from the winner Johnny Mac.

“Denny stuck on bravely after a tough trip on Tuesday,” says Donnelly, “Jay Abernethy drives him today and despite drawing two we will be looking to stay out of the early rush with him.”

Bad Medicine, the winner of the Wairarapa Cup three starts ago at Manawatu, starts on fresh legs having made the journey south from Donnelly’s Cambridge base.

“Bad Medicine put in a good effort when second at Cambridge last week and I think he’s a great chance today,” says Donnelly.

David Butcher drives the Bettor’s Delight gelding who starts from barrier six.

Donnelly also starts four other horses at today’s meeting including Jacqueline Rose in race 3, The Helen Grey Memorial Mobile Pace. Jacqueline Rose finished second behind Sweet Spirit on Tuesday, in what was a solid effort after being posted three wide from the 700 metre mark.

“She has a better draw today which we will be taking advantage of,” says Donnelly, “David Butcher drives her and on paper she looks to be a good chance.”

Mr President lines up in Race 6, the Wenham Grain & Seeds Mobile Pace, driven by David Butcher. The gelding was unplaced on Tuesday when, despite travelling strongly throughout, he failed to obtain a gap and briefly galloped near the 200 metre mark.

“He was travelling easy when he failed to find a gap on Tuesday and I think he’s a leading contender today,” says Donnelly.

Donnelly’s other runners include Carolina Moon in Race 4, and Pacing Hope Race 7.

“Pacing Hope has drawn one today so we should get a nice rails run which suits her down to the ground,” says Donnelly.

“All in all, the team lacked a bit of luck on Tuesday but they’ve all eaten up and seem well for today.”

The first race begins at 5:29pm with The Cobb Manawatu Cup being run at 8:25pm.

For complete race entries, click here.

by Brigette Solomon, for Harness Racing New Zealand