Big night looms for junior driver Jacob Dunn

It’s shaping up to be a big night at Cambridge Raceway for up and coming northern junior harness racing driver Jacob Dunn, who lines up behind three promising runners.

Each of the trio looks a genuine shot at the winner’s circle, starting with Kiss And Run for Cambridge locals Dylan and Jo Ferguson.

The five-year-old mare fronts up in the Garrards Horse And Hound Handicap Trot (6.20pm) after a solid fourth at Alexandra Park last week, following a brief freshen-up. That run came in much stronger company, and Dunn believes the drop back to Cambridge conditions could work in her favour.

“Her last start was quite a good run, it was a very handy field,” Dunn said, “she’s back to Cambridge tonight, but the 25m over 2200m is never easy, especially if the front markers step and run. In saying that, she steps quick enough, and if I can get a handy enough spot, she should definitely be right there.”

Later in the night, Dunn reunites with a familiar partner in Twista, a four-year-old gelding trained by Steve and Amanda Telfer. The pair line up in the Dunstan Horsefeeds Handicap Pace over 2700 metres (6.45pm), a distance Dunn feels will suit the pacer.

Their last outing together at Cambridge on September 25 ended in success, with Twista grinding out a brave win after sitting parked and still rattling home in a sharp 56.7 last half. Dunn was impressed by the effort.

“Last start he was back to his best,” Dunn said, “the 2700 stand should suit him, and if we can make a safe enough beginning, he looks to be a top chance.”

Rounding out Dunn’s trio of drives is Upstage, another Stonewall Stud representative. The four-year-old Sweet Lou gelding steps out in the Join Us For Camb RDA Fundraiser On 30 Oct Mobile Pace, marking his first start in almost a year. With a couple of tidy trials under his belt, Dunn expects a good showing, but admits the run will likely bring him on.

“Steve has told me he quite likes him,” he said. “He’s had a couple of trials and we’ve drawn well enough, but he’s been off the scene for quite a while, so we might need the run.”

Of his three drives, Dunn didn’t hesitate when asked for his best chance.

“Twista’s probably my pick of the litter tonight,”

He’s also quick to acknowledge the faith Stonewall Stud continues to show in him.

“They’re giving me some really great opportunities.”

For complete race entries, click here.

by Jordyn Bublitz for Harness Racing New Zealand