Two for Telfer

Stonewall Stud’s harness racing trainers Steve and Amanda Telfer have two genuine starters in this year’s IRT New Zealand Trotting Cup. 

“The buildup’s been great and it’s good to have a runner let alone two, so we’re looking forward to Tuesday,” said Steve who trains Alta Wiseguy (Mach Three) and B D Joe (Roll With Joe) with his sister.

Team Telfer wasn’t overly happy with Alta Wiseguy when he finished fourth in the Ashburton Flying Stakes with driver Tim Williams reporting that the horse grabbed on one rein from the 600 and was hanging in.

“We’ve made a few gear changes. He’s been very good during the week and was good again this morning, so hopefully we’ve rectified that.”

B D Joe has been in a rich vein of form recently, winning his last three starts. His wins include the Canterbury Classic and Ashburton Flying Stakes.

“He’s just got sharper and a bit stronger. Ben (Butcher) said he just feels better with each run.” 

Regarding having two runners in the Cup? Telfer said “It’s a thrill mate especially for the owners. There’s a lot of time gone into them to get them to this stage. Everything has gone well and we’re looking forward to the big day.” 

Both horses had their final hit out at the Rangiora track on Friday morning. Williams drove Alta Wiseguy while Amanda handled B D Joe. 

“They ran over a mile and a half (2400 metres) in 3-10 – 3-11, last half in 58 and the quarter in 27. They pulled up well and both seem bright. I’m very happy with what they did this morning. B D Joe was a shade better in work this morning.” 

Both Alta Wiseguy and B D Joe are known for their quick standing starts but unfortunately both have drawn the second line in Tuesday’s Cup.

“Look it’s not ideal because they’re both very quick beginners so the front line would have been more beneficial to them. It’s a long race, they’ve had a great preparation and they’re going into the race very very well.”

For complete race entries, click here.

by Bruce Stewart, for Harnesslink