Thornley chasing payback after tough first day

West Melton trainer-driver Sam Thornley is looking for a few more things to go his way today when he lines up two runners on day two of the Westport harness racing meeting.

His runners Captain Publisher and Son E both ran well without threatening like they could have on the first day and Thornley believes they both get their chance to make amends.

Captain Publisher ($1.75FF) gets his chance in Race 4, the Graeme and Joan McMaster Pace over 2000m.

“He went massive on the first day. He didn’t really blow too much afterwards, so if he backs up he’s a good chance,” said Thornley.

Captain Publisher draws closer in today at barrier three which may or may not help his cause.

“He stepped away good in his first two starts for me but blew it on day one. He just has to go away from the stand.”

Runners that may take advantage of any mistakes made by Captain Publisher include Bella Ciao ($4.20FF) and Ultimatum ($6.00FF).

Thornley and Son E ($3.80FF) line up in Race 6, the Bernie Stewart Memorial Handicap Trot over 2600m.

Son E trotted awkwardly on day one with Thornley putting it down to the Sundon gelding getting a little keen in the running.

“He trotted rough late in the race on the first day, and got a bit keen when they came  around.”

Son E will start from a 10 metre handicap, as he did the first day, and is usually a quick beginner and is drawn behind Prince Teka who likes to step and run.

 “He’s drawn to get a good run and it may work out pretty good.”

First day winner Jasprit Trouble ($4.50FF) will drop back 10 metres and start on level terms with Son E today.

Thornley also has three other drives today including Always Bee Gee ($5.00FF) for trainer Chris McDowell in Race 1, the Apparelmaster Mobile Pace over 2600m.

“He should go forward and get a good trip. He should improve again from the first day.”

In Race 3, the Donaldson Farm Mobile Pace over 2600m I’m All In ($35.00FF) and Thornley will combine once again for trainer Ross Houghton. I’m All In led up on day one but different tactics will be needed today from their second row draw.

“Leading up didn’t really suit him last time. Blinds go on today and it’ll be a different run today – should be a top five finish with a good run.”

Thornley and Brent Borcoskie will join up with My Wingman ($6.50FF) in Race 7, the Westport Water Services Handicap Pace over 2600m.

“With any sort of a run it would be a very good chance.”

Thornley also takes the drive on Helloveamoment ($51.00FF) for trainer Andrew Garters at long odds in Race 9, the Durban Chief Westport Trotters Cup over 3200m.

“It’s pretty tough off twenty-metres.”

Thornley has won 66 races this season and is locked up in third place in the Junior Drivers Premiership with Harrison Orange.

Leading the premiership, jointly with 90 wins, are Carter Dalgety and Wilson House, with just three days of the season remaining.

For complete race entries, click here.

by Mike Love, for Harness Racing New Zealand