Purdon’s pair ready for Kindergarten

Harness racing trainer Nathan Purdon said his two runners are ready for Thursdays (Apr. 6) time honoured Kindergarten Stakes –  a race in which his family has had a long run of success.

Runners from the All Stars stable have won nine of the last ten editions and in total Nathan’s father Mark whom he co-trains with, has won thirteen editions of the juvenile feature.

Likely favourite Vessem (Vincent) won nicely at Addington in the hands of Blair Orange. A couple of well known Southlanders Stuie and Pauline Gillan of Lochiel are in his ownership group.

“It took me a wee bit by surprise with how he won the race but he did it nicely and wasn’t too stressed out doing it. He’s come through the race really well. If he handles the trip south he’s a really good chance,” Nathan said.  

Southlander Kirstin Green takes the reins on the talented youngster. She drove El Nino (Live Or Die) to win the feature in 2009.

At Addington on debut, Purdon’s second runner Major Hot (Art Major) ran home nicely for fourth just over three lengths behind his stable mate. He’s a half brother to Hot And Treacherous (Captaintreacherous).

“Both horses have tucked up nicely. He’s (Major Hot) a nice horse that hit the line really well at his last start. If he gets any ounce of luck he’s a horse that you’ll know is there.”

Major Hot will be handled by stable junior Olivia Thornley who won last year’s Kindergarten driving Don’t Stop Dreaming (Bettor’s Delight).

For complete race entries, click here.

by Bruce Stewart, for Harnesslink