Telfer looking to add to his success at Methven

Timaru harness racing trainer Graeme Telfer heads to the grass at Methven on Friday looking to add more success to his week – after Szybka Lane won impressively at Ashburton on Labour Day.

He will line up three runners on the grass at Mt Harding although success in Race 1, the Speight’s Trot over 1700m, may be defined as “just doing things right” when it comes to maiden trotter Silvester (The Pres).

“He’s a work in progress. If he trotted all the way he would be a chance,” said Graeme Telfer.

The four-year-old gelding by The Pres initially went away well on debut at Oamaru two weeks ago before rolling into a gallop.

“We will have to see if he gets through the race without breaking. At this stage he’s a risky proposition.”

Since then Silvester returned to the trials where he made another mistake but trotted well thereafter suggesting there is something under the bonnet.

“There’s definitely ability there – it’s just a matter of time and learning the ropes.” 

A quick turnaround for Telfer will see Usa having her first start in Race 2, the Pendene Farms (Fillies and Mares) Mobile Pace. The three-year-old Artsplace filly qualified in March before being tipped out for a spell. Since then she has trialled at Ashburton within the last couple of weeks and will look to keep improving.

“She’s another that’s a work in progress. But being a small field and drawn okay will help her. She should get an economical run.”

“She’s well bred. I think it’s the second last Artsplace ever.”

Prince Rainer lines up in Race 6, the Ryal Bush Transport Ashburton Mobile Trot. Drawn two, the seven-year-old Monarchy gelding returns to his beloved Methven track – having won two of his three career wins, and placing a further eight times from 18 attempts.

“He goes well and loves the track. This is his second run in a week, and he’s been finishing off his races well lately.”

“If he handles the mobile he should go well.”

Prince Rainer has also placed twice from five attempts over the mile.

Telfer is optimistic overall about his runners’ chances, and is especially so with the engagement of driver John Dunn who is booked to drive all three.

“I think the best part of it is John Dunn driving them.”

Telfer’s win with Szybka Lane earlier in the week ticked his tally as a trainer over to 60 career wins. He trains a team of six.

Szybka Lane is next likely to race at Oamaru on November 7 followed by a date at stud.

“She is going to Captain Crunch.”

Racing commences this afternoon from 3:12pm.

For complete race entries, click here.

by Mike Love, for Harness Racing New Zealand