Cox happy with Pinseeker

In only his second season of racing Pinseeker (Downbytheseaside) is being prepped to embark on the second part of his 2024 harness racing season.

Trainer Jonny Cox has given the four year old two trials to help set him up for the beginning of this campaign.

“He’s been to Ashburton and Rangiora, but it was more for stand start practice. He’s generally safe but slow. But he trialed good at Ashburton. He got a bit of mud rash after the Rangiora trial so we just jogged him. We’ll just start again from scratch and his aim will be the Hannon,” Cox said.

The Hannon Memorial at Oamaru is in a fortnight.

“We’ll nominate for the Cup and see where we end up but it’s not his real target.”

Cox says the Junior Free For All could be an option on Cup Day.

“That’s the sort of grade he’s in.”

Pinseeker has come a long way quickly and already carries an R69 rating.

“He’s only had eight starts and most of the horses he’s racing against have probably had eight wins so he’s definitely the baby and I’m mindful of that. I don’t want to throw him in the deep end too quick because you’ve got some superstars nominated (for the IRT New Zealand Cup) already so we’ll play it by ear and make the decision when the time comes.”

Cox says the $100,000 G1 Ascot Park Hotel Invercargill Cup in December could be another target for the four year old pacer.

“The Invercargill race is a couple of miles which I think will suit him and it’s a Group One.”

by Bruce Stewart, for Harnesslink