Classy mare makes her racing return

After a brief let-up, classy Big Jim mare Fairy Tinkabell will make her return to racing on Saturday night at Tabcorp Park Menangle for leading harness racing trainer Belinda McCarthy in the Group 3 Pryde’s Easifeed Stylish Memphis Stakes.

The six-year-old has gone from strength to strength over the past 18 months, contesting several of the biggest feature races for mares during Sydney’s Miracle Mile carnival earlier this season.

Despite her undeniable talent, Saturday night’s assignment will be no walk in the park, according to driver Jack Callaghan, who was quick to point out that she is taking on some of Sydney’s most in-form mares.

“There is no argument that Fairy Tinkabell has class on her side,” said Callaghan.

“She has had a one-month break from when she last stepped out on the racetrack, but the team at home has her very fit and her trial 10 days ago was sharp.

“She bettered 1:50 at Menangle when she won in February and is electric over the mile.

“But she has some tough opposition to overcome, that’s for sure.

“Town Echo is a classy mare on the way through for Jack Trainor, while Brad Hewitt has Yarraman Bella absolutely flying.

“Even a mare like Yoha will be hard to beat with the right run.

“So, while I am quietly confident, I am also well aware of the capabilities of my rivals.”

Callaghan has a busy schedule this week including tonight at the Penrith where he will drive in each of the eight races.

Then tomorrow night the star reinsman travels up to Newcastle for six drives and then will be back at Tabcorp Park Menangle on Saturday, where he has seven drives.

“It is a busy time of year for our team at Cobbitty,” said Callaghan.

“Belinda has horses racing in both New South Wales and Queensland, which provides me with the opportunity to drive some of the better horses in Sydney while Luke (McCarthy) is campaigning in Brisbane.

“Both Belinda and Luke show faith in my ability to get the job done with smart horses like Fairy Tinkabell and it is great honor to be given that privilege.”

Jack will partner the favourite, Eve Croker in the opening race at Penrith tonight while four of his other drives are also favoured to win in pre-post betting markets.

For complete Penrith fields, click here.

For complete Menangle Saturday fields, click here.

by Michael Dumesny, for HRNSW