Hidden Talent in building phase

Although Hidden Talent (Bacardi Lindy) looks to be in a winnable race tonight (Sep. 29) at Addington the mare’s harness racing trainer Nathan Williamson is looking at the big picture as the four year old mare adjusts to the rigours of open class trotting.

He’s working through a specific plan with Hidden Talent, asking her to travel more and get race hardened with the Dominion still her main target.

“She’s come through Oamaru okay. What I want to do with her is get a bit of travelling and race hardening into her. It’s always hard when you’re stepping up to that bigger legend. I thought we’d have a crack at this race and have another trip up the country. I’m happy enough with her but we’re building towards the Cup meeting and what I’d say is that she’s adjusting to that open grade. I’ve stepped everything up and she has to toughen up a little bit. That’s the phase we’re in now,” Williamson said.

He confirmed Hidden Talent will also have a couple of runs in Southland before the Cup meeting.

“I think you’ll see a better version of her down here because she doesn’t have to travel. I think I can get her better down here, but I think all the trips will make her.”

Williamson also has open class pacer Pembrook Playboy (Bettor’s Delight) in the Group Two Lamb and Haywood Canterbury Classic which has drawn a capacity field of sixteen.

The six year old sat parked for 1400 metres in the Hannon and faded for sixth, five and half lengths from winner Aardie’s Express (Always B Miki).

“I’m looking for an improved performance. He’s got a horror draw which negates his good manners. If he follows along and doesn’t do too much, I’d like to think he’ll be running on.”

The top three placegetters in the tomorrow night’s pacing feature are guaranteed a place in November’s New Zealand Cup.

by Bruce Stewart, for Harnesslink