Stapleton team brings value to Addington today

Rakaia trainer Warren Stapleton has three harness racing chances at good odds today at Addington.

In race 1, the Betavet Prepare, He’s Santas Excuse ($21.00FF) will line up for just the second time for Stapleton after things went awry last week.

“He was hitting the wheels last week. So we are expecting a more improved run this week. He would be a good place bet.”

He’s Santas Excuse will be driven by Warren Frost who also part owns the gelding of Net Ten EOM.

Race 5, the Betavet Regumare Fillies and Mares Mobile Pace will see Ivona Dadic ($31.00FF) take on a handy field looking to go back to back after winning her maiden last week at Addington. Although she looks like a nice horse in the making there are a few sharp fillies to contend with, including the in-form Lakelsa ($2.20) and Happy Harper ($2.50).

“She’s trained on well and I’m very pleased with her. There’s a couple in there that are alright, but she’s sound and I think the 2600m will suit her much better.”

Ivona Dadic will be driven by Kimberly Butt.

Finally in race eight the Betavet Thanks Their Staff & Clients, Spirited Lou ($15.00FF), the entire by Sweet Lou will be needing to lift his game to feature.

“Jonny (Cox) drove him a treat last time and he didn’t do much so we were disappointed. He won’t have to do much today,” says Stapleton, “He’s going to have to improve a lot but I think he can do that.”

He will be driven by Kimberly Butt today.

Stapleton trains 14 from his Rakaia base.

“Lester (5 wins) is on his way back. We qualified a Majestic Son trotter last Tuesday who can win a race. There’s one or two there that can win races.”

For complete race entries, click here.

by Mike Love, for Harness Racing New Zealand