Donnelly helps out Ottley in 100 quest

In her final push to drive 100 winners in a season, Sam Ottley heads to the Cambridge harness racing meeting tomorrow afternoon to drive a handful of Arna Donnelly runners.

“I had to twist her arm a bit. If you get that close you might as well have a crack. To get her 800 is just fantastic and now she can have a good crack for the 100 for the season. It’s cool to help her out,” Donnelly said.

Arna and Sam have been friends for years and when Donnelly ventures south to Canterbury she stays at Ottley’s place.

“She drives a couple when we are down there so it’s nice to return the favour.”

The Donnelly team commences the afternoon in Race Five with Ottley driving Neymar (Sportswriter) who’s been breaking in his last few starts.

Sam’s second drive is in Race Six on Major Major (Art Major). He didn’t have much luck at Manawatu at his last start and draws two on the second row tomorrow.

Donnelly has three runners in Race Seven – The Surfer (Downbytheseaside), Cracker Rock (Rock N Roll Heaven) and Beta Prepare (Bettor’s Delight).

Ottley drives The Surfer who’s been racing in good company this season. He had no luck at his last start at Alexandra Park.

Beta Prepare’s form is very good and he gets a good draw for driver Todd Mitchell.

Cracker Rock’s form line also read well.

Donnelly has three starters in Race Nine – Le Major (Art Major), Little Spike (Terror To Love) and Red Rackham (Vincent).

Le Major had no luck at Auckland but has been back at the workouts since.

Le Major will be driven by James Stormont.

Little Spike has won five of his thirteen starts and has competed in some good races. He won his last start at Alexandra Park, this will be his first race from a stand.

Ottley drives Little Spike.

Red Rackham runs from the ten metre mark and will be handled by David Butcher.

Once Cambridge is done and dusted Ottley has five more meeting to reach her milestone: Westport on Thursday, Gore Friday, Westport again on Saturday, Banks Peninsula Sunday and Reefton on Monday.

by Bruce Stewart, for Harnesslink