In-form Ferguson stable has good chances at Winton

Strike rate harness racing trainer Craig Ferguson has started horses nineteen times this season for nine wins, three seconds, two thirds and a UDR of 0.5965.

The Wyndham based trainer looks to continue his good results, having four in form runners entered at tomorrow’s (Apr 13) Winton Cup meeting at the roomy Central Southland Raceway.

Ferguson’s day begins at Race Five with three year old Glaucus (Captaintreacherous) drawing barrier one in a twelve horse field. He held on really well at his debut on this track two weeks ago and should be improved with the run.

“I was very happy with his first up run. He had to do a little bit of work and it’s not necessarily his go. He’s stripped fitter for the run. I’ve been happy with him this week and he’s my best bet,” Ferguson said.

In the final heat of the Alabar Southern Supremacy Stakes Ferguson has Cormac Leo (Sweet Lou) and Wag Star (Sweet Lou), both of whom face the dauting task of beating boom pacer Ohoka Connor (Sunshine Beach).

Cormac Leo was an impressive winner at Addington, and he ran second behind Wag Star at his last start.

“He’s come through his last run well which I was impressed with because I have quite a high opinion of Wag Star. He draws a wee bit better this week than the other fella, so he’ll have options.”

Wag Star has won both his starts and looks to be a quality pacer in the making.

“He’s pulled up super which was pleasing because it was a wet track which can sometimes knock them a wee bit. Ohoka Connor looks like a very smart horse so it’s the toughest field my two have raced, that’s for sure.”

Ferguson has been looking after Play Philly (Art Major) for Canterbury trainer Regan Todd and she draws nicely in the final of the $30,000 SSBA/Vet South Equine Southern Belle Series. At her last start she didn’t get running room in the last 400 metres and finished sixth.

“We were a bit disappointed with the run. She was good the start before. The way the race played out didn’t suit her, but I would have liked her to be running on a bit better. She’s got a better draw this week and it’s the first time in her life she’s had a decent draw. So that’s in her favour. Her work’s been good.”

Ferguson finishes his day in Race Eleven with last start winner Nutcracker (Bettor’s Delight) who draws five on the second line.

“She won her last start and we freshened her up. She trialled last week and she impressed me. The second row draw is going to be tricky and it’s a smart field. Captain Tom (Captaintreacherous) is going to be hard to beat. From that draw she’s going to need all favours, but she should be finishing on.”

For complete race entries, click here.

by Bruce Stewart, for Harnesslink