Drought breaker

Southland harness racing owners Ian and Lindsay Thomson have had a lean run of late, but the drought was broken yesterday when The Real Crunch (Captain Crunch) upset in the Provident Insurance Mobile Pace at Ascot Park, surprising trainer Alister Black.

“It probably was with the way he’s been racing,” he said.

At his last start he got fired up after a false start was declared and Black believes he may have also choked down.
Driven by Blair Orange yesterday, The Real Crunch settled last from his wide draw with plenty of early pace on. With 1200 metres to run Orange moved the three year old around the field to sit parked. When Major Boy came round quickly with 800 to run, Orange decided to take The Real Crunch to the lead. Coming down the straight he fought off all challengers to win by a neck with Major Burns finishing second.

THE REAL CRUNCH REPLAY

“It was a beautiful drive and that’s why he’s the best in the country.”

Ian and Lindsay bought The Real Crunch at the 2023 Yearling Sales for $22,000. His dam Karen Donna has also left good pacers Cash N Flow and Katy Perry.

“Hopefully one day he’ll wake up to his breeding. He’s one of the best bred horses here today.”

The Real Crunch paid $23.10 and $4.20.

Ian and Lindsay who are closing in on 100 winners, last won a race with Rightazz in September last year, so yesterday’s win was a welcome relief.

For complete race results, click here.

by Bruce Stewart, for Harnesslink