News briefs

Tank heads to Aussie

Southland trainer Paul “Tank” Ellis is heading to Australia. He will link up with ex-pat Kiwi Brent Lilley at his Bolinda stables in Victoria. Ellis is best known for his training partnership with Kirstin Barclay, though they dissolved that earlier this year after producing 85 winners, with their star horses including U May Cullect and Watch Me Now.

Second win for Self Assured’s full sister

The Morning Star had her second win from six starts at Addington last Friday. Trained and driven by Jim Curtin she ought to be good – by Bettor’s Delight out of Star Of Venus she’s a full sister to reigning New Zealand Cup champion Self Assured.

Benchmark back after long absence

Nine-year-old Bacardi Lindy gelding, Benchmark is on the comeback. He is back in training with Regan Todd after not racing since December 2019 for Murray Howard. Benchmark’s had nine wins from 39 starts including victory in the Group Three Summer Trotting Free For All at Addington in 2018.

Tetrick tearing it up state-side

Tim Tetrick is on fire in North America at the moment, with five winners at Harrah’s Philadelphia on Sunday. That takes him to 274 for the year, second only to Aaron Merriman (349), though he’s a clear leader in stakes earnings with $US3,029,961, from Merriman ($2,607,983) and Dexter Dunn third on $2,583,437. Dunn has 188 wins for the year, placing him tenth equal overall.

Mother-son success at Shepparton

At Shepparton on Sunday there was a rare family double, with both Laura Crossland and her son Cody driving winners. 16-year-old Cody won race 4 with Pinnacle Hope ($4.10 and $1.90) only for Laura to emulate the feat in the very next race with Starlight Red ($7.80 and $2.60).

Tourette’s fund-raiser at Addington

On June 25 the Addington Raceway will have a charity race night raising funds for the Tourette’s Association. Tickets cost $135 per person and will include a three course buffet and drinks. For more information contact Bryce on 021 616601 or email c4events@gmail.com