‘Artie’ passes the test

Having been absent from the track in almost a year top class pacer Lochinvar Art had his first trial back at Melton today since an injury-enforced spell.

In the official hit-out, New Zealand import Tango Tara led and Lochinvar Art chased him to the line to finish second in a mile rate of 1:56.9 and the final two quarters in 28.2 and 27 seconds.

Watch the replay below:

“I’m really, really happy,” said driver David Moran following the trial.

“The was a perfect trial for him first up, he’s had a lot of ground work at home, not a lot of speed work so that will tighten him up.

“He seems well, so fingers crossed it’s all about that now, the recovery and making sure he gets through the next 24 hours good without any issues.”

Connections have earmarked the $60,000 Group 2 Shepparton Cup on January 15 for Lochinvar Art.

His last start was his victory in the $500,000 Hunter Cup on February 6, 2021.

It was not long after when Lochinvar Art was being aimed at the Newcastle Mile and ultimately the Miracle Mile that he developed a hoof abscess and further scans revealed a cracked cannon bone.

In his time away from the track, Lochinvar Art spent time in the breeding barn at Cobbitty Equine Farm.

By Amanda Rando for Harnesslink