American Me close to returning

Ashburton pacer American Me (American Ideal) is set to make his harness racing return next month.

“He had a hit out this morning. Everything seems well, and he’s fit and healthy. He’ll trial next Tuesday at Ashburton,” Brent White, who trains in partnership with his son Tim said.

The eight year old gelding who’s just had eight starts this year will kick off the second half of his season on Friday 6^th September in the Group Three Avon City Ford New Brighton Cup at Addington over 2600 metres.

“From there we’ll go onto the Hannon followed by the Methven Cup then probably Kaikoura. I’m pretty keen to go there because he’s got good standing start manners and if he gets on the pace around that track he’ll be a runner’s chance.”

American Me which won last years $110,000 Group One Ascot Park Hotel Invercargill Cup, was a creditable fourth in last year’s Cup, just under six lengths from the winner Swayzee.

After winning the Roy Purdon Memorial, American Me finished sixth in the Group One Trillian Trust Auckland Cup.

“That year of top line hard racing hasn’t hurt him. He’s come back from Auckland fit and fine and never had any aches and pains since we’ve had him. I’m really happy with where he’s at.”

This year’s IRT New Zealand Cup could be one for the ages with a host of Australian pacers heading this way, lead by superstar Leap To Fame.

“It’s going to be a lot tougher this year and you’re going to have to be at your best. Two miles on a helmet is his go. He came to us about twelve months ago and he’s been a great find. Whatever he does now is a bonus.”

by Bruce Stewart, for Harnesslink