Winter Reward to Gronkowski

Gronkowski, (Captaintreacherous) due to his recent consistent form, was a deserving winner at the Winton Harness Racing Club meeting today (Jun. 30).  

Prior to today’s win, in seven starts the Tyler Dewe trained gelding had recorded four seconds, two thirds, and a seventh. 

From barrier five driver Rory McIIwrick took the four year old straight to the top and he held on to beat favourite The Jaffa Express (Auckland Reactor) which sat parked, by a length and a quarter.  

“No matter how we drove him, hot or cold, he was always finding one better. The track conditions probably helped today. Rory summed it up perfectly. That’s why we have him on board,” Dewe said. 

GRONKOWSKI REPLAY

Due to a lengthy enquiry in the previous race, the race was delayed for more than twenty minutes. In cold and inclement weather, trainers watched anxiously as the horses were twice sent away to keep warm before they finally got underway. 

“I was getting a bit wound up with the horses having to wait that long but he’s a cool calm and collected guy who wouldn’t have taken too much out of himself.” 

Gronkowski was bred by Macca Lodge, who sponsored today’s $20,000 Winter Reward Mobile Pace.  He’s out of the Bettor’s Delight mare Delightful Tactics who’s a half-sister to Tact Aunty, (Christian Cullen) the dam of BK Swy (Big Jim) – 14 wins and BD Joe (Roll With Joe) 13 wins.  

Gronkowski began his career with Canterbury trainer Gavin Smith, winning a race and being placed a handful of times. Dewe purchased him in March for Scott and Sam Leader. 

“Although he’s been very consistent he’s been a real head scratcher. He does have ability but it’s a matter of whether he wants to show it.”  

Today’s win was the last for Dewe and the Leaders. 

“He’s been sold to Denis O’Connell, so he’ll have a great life and I’m sure we’ll see him down here in the next couple of years.” 

For complete race entries, click here.

by Bruce Stewart, for Harnesslink