Alchin ready to strike in the south

It has been a busy time for Menangle Park harness racing horseman Rickie Alchin over the past six months.

After a successful winter campaign north of the border in Queensland and then weeks of competing in the New South Wales Breeders Challenge Series, Alchin is looking forward to heading to Victoria for the upcoming Breeders Crown Series before returning for the Inter Dominion Championships on home soil at Tabcorp Park Menangle.

“It has definitely been a hectic year for us, that’s for sure,” said Alchin.

“We had some great results when we were up in Queensland where the team performed beyond our expectations.

“And although we did not get the desired results, we had hoped for in the Breeders Challenge Series, I was still happy with the way the team performed.

“Over the next three months, we will turn our focus to the Breeders Crown in Victoria and we cannot wait to be part of the Inter Dominion, particularly for the trotters here at home.

“I have sent four of the team to Victoria with my stable foreman Rick Hunt to contest the Breeders Crown Series, three young square-gaiters and a two-year-old filly.

“Tough Love, King City and Watts Up Majestic are the trotters for which I have a lot of time for, and Soho Rhapsody is a filly that does go well.

“I am confident that they will acquit themselves well.

“And as for the Inter Dominion, I know that our old stable star Tough Monarch will give his best.

“Although he is getting on in years, I feel that he will be a force to be reckoned with throughout the series, especially on his home track.”

On Friday night, Alchin will travel up to Newcastle where he has two horses engaged.

“I am taking Glamour Fox there tonight after she contested the Breeders Challenge Final for the three year old fillies last weekend,” he said.

“She is coming up against a handy field of older horses, but it is a drop in grade from racing against top fillies like Anntonia.”

Glamour Fox has drawn ideally in gate two and her form since joining Alchin’s stable has been consistent.

Rickie’s second runner, Black Hawk Joe will contest the fast-class event (Race 4) and his current form is strong.

The race should prove a perfect stepping-stone for the gelding to move to the next level.

To view the fields for Newcastle on Friday night click here.

By Michael Dumesny for HRNSW