2014 Interdominion

[aussiebreno]

http://www.harness.org.au/news-article.cfm?news_id=22715

Fields out for heats.

[brent_L]

They need to change the name, it's insulting to previous ID champs but that's an argument for another day.

Heat 3 the strongest by a country mile (5 that would be considered winning chances in the final with the right run)......feel for connections who miss the final in that heat

Have I missed something....Smoken Up missing??

[Smoken]

Lance stated that Trigger is flat, and will race in a few weeks. Not retired :)
Would have loved to see him in the Inter, he is just one of those once in a life time horses that creates passion and excitement!

[aussiebreno]

They need to change the name, it's insulting to previous ID champs but that's an argument for another day.

?
My thoughts exactly! Call it the Ben Hur.

[p plater]

[QUOTE=brent_L;30572]They need to change the name, it's insulting to previous ID champs but that's an argument for another day.

Maybe "The Australasian" in the current format.

[Danno]

Maybe the Quasidominion?

[Greg Hando]

The Claytons Dominion Championship

[Greg Hando]

The Melbourne heat should be a good one also the second Sydney heat will be interesting.

[arlington]

heat rankings?? http://www.harness.org.au/news-article.cfm?news_id=22716


Will be interesting if the INTER DOMINION might revert back in the future. Over eight days, Heats Saturday, and Tuesday, final Saturday. all at the one venue?

[Lucky Camilla"s Lovechild]

We could revert back to the early 80's, and call it the Trans Tasman Challenge. Remember them? Delightful Lady, Popular Alm, Gammalite etc. Doing battle over 2-3 weeks!

[Lucky Camilla"s Lovechild]

Lance stated that Trigger is flat, and will race in a few weeks. Not retired :)
Would have loved to see him in the Inter, he is just one of those once in a life time horses that creates passion and excitement!
Lucky he got 'flat', while Lance is suspended!

[Lucky Camilla"s Lovechild]

Looks like Yvonne Sampson is heading up the coverage of the Inter final at Menangle. I suppose it would be remiss of me not to include a quick snippet of some of her work.
http://www.news.com.au/video/id-FuMGRhZzo2DeHrCuD9Q3cPlwKvHca-dm/Yvonne-Sampson-caught-out-on-camera

[broncobrad]

She certainly has got MY attention Leigh!

[brent_L]

Let's get paid. Favourites win in Sydney, Jnr gets the lead off of his bro in Perth.....walks in, favs go 1-2 in NZ (have no idea on the order though).
The other two heats have me stumped. Originally thought Forever Gold would hand up to Avonnova so Dixons horse wasn't on her back but with the scratching I'm thinking FG best chance is now to try and lead. The 10yo emergency couldn't then sprint lane and qualify, could it??
Restrepo at $2.50 looks a terrible price. Will he lead? If so KC looks the bet of the night e/w, but if Restrepo hands up (or gets crossed) I don't want a bar of KC and ICT & CB will be the key players. May be a no bet race for me.
What are everyone's thoughts.

[Messenger]

6 top races in 75 min - ya gotta luv it

[HaroldParker]

Let's get paid. Favourites win in Sydney, Jnr gets the lead off of his bro in Perth.....walks in, favs go 1-2 in NZ (have no idea on the order though).
The other two heats have me stumped. Originally thought Forever Gold would hand up to Avonnova so Dixons horse wasn't on her back but with the scratching I'm thinking FG best chance is now to try and lead. The 10yo emergency couldn't then sprint lane and qualify, could it??
Restrepo at $2.50 looks a terrible price. Will he lead? If so KC looks the bet of the night e/w, but if Restrepo hands up (or gets crossed) I don't want a bar of KC and ICT & CB will be the key players. May be a no bet race for me.
What are everyone's thoughts.

Hey Brent, Clinton Hall on Twitter says he won't be handing up and I know the connections want to him to try for an all the way win. Rather than looking at it as a ID heat, it's a 50K feature and they've been gifted the rail with the one of their three dangers drawn to park and the other two off the back line. The horse is unbeaten when leading including 2 wins v ITMQ. He broke the clock at Byford last Sunday.

I know outside the top 4 in the market this heat falls away but David Hercules and Im Victorious would start rock solid second elects in both the Sydney heats. They'd be Fav from a decent draw or second elect from any gate in VIC and to a slightly lesser extent Hokonui Ben and Livingontheinterest in that order.

If you were to pick top 4 in their current form for every heat, the WA heat is the strongest. The Eastern State and NZ press saying otherwise, were also saying this time last year that ITMQ needed a third Interdomion and nearly 4 Million in earnings to prove himself a Champion : )

David Hercules in the X Factor. He's a phenom on the engine and I hope he makes it to Menangle. He's the one horse in the series from a decent gate (which he hasn't got in a feature for 2 seasons) that'll get forward and keep rolling. His 1.53.6 for 2130 around GP in May was incredible, 54 last week under a stranglehold. Other than Beautide, I don't think there's another horse in the series that could burn the candle at both ends like he can.

[HaroldParker]

and next year, kill the NZ heat and have a third heat at Menangle or second heat at Melton. 9 horses over 2 years is taking the piss.

[brent_L]

and next year, kill the NZ heat and have a third heat at Menangle or second heat at Melton. 9 horses over 2 years is taking the piss.
I hear what you're saying but if they're gonna stick with 'Interdominion' that simply can't happen.
Although the number per heat is definitely a worry, my gripe is with the quality. Some are claimers for crying out loud.

Agree regarding DH & IV.......absolute stars (and proven in eastern states). The other two in that heat are reliant on draws. If either of the good two had the pole in this race Living & Ben would be 12/1 or greater.

Thanks for the Livingontheinterest info, it is greatly appreciated and probably changes my wager. That said, they've all gone bonkers! I could have somewhat understood them holding up before the scratching but now it borders on lunacy. They cannot possibly win the race with IV outside & DH behind.....don't believe he'd run 2nd either. I understand his record when leading but no way he's going as well as those occasions he beat the champ......he just held of Ben the other week! I'll eat the proverbial pie if I'm wrong but really have to believe that as the race gets closer and with a little pressure off the arm from Jnr, sanity will prevail.
GL Bob & thanks again.

[The Escape Club]

I thought on Chasing and Pacing on Thursday night that Adam said TAB were running a big 6 on the heats? I only have a TAB account and all I can find is the big 6 for Melton and the first 4 pool guarantees on the 5 Australian heats.


Anyone?

[aussiebreno]

I thought on Chasing and Pacing on Thursday night that Adam said TAB were running a big 6 on the heats? I only have a TAB account and all I can find is the big 6 for Melton and the first 4 pool guarantees on the 5 Australian heats.


Anyone?
While I thought better than to do one, I seen the Interdom big 6 available on Tab terminal earlier today.

[Njcstables]

Firstly, this isn't an inter dominion, I'm going to call it the Inter City Invitational Challenge! Secondly, why are all the heats not over the same distance range. Melton and Brisbane heats are too short as compared with others. Menangle have extended the start by 100m to make it more in keeping with NZ and wa? Anyway my tips:

Terror to love
Beautide
C blaster
For a reason
Field officer
I'm vic.

[Richard prior]

Agree with Nathan about the distance, The final is going to be over 3000+metres and all the heats should be run over a similar distance, Probably a minimum of 2500 metres for the first round.

[brent_L]

Pedestrian!! Insulting!!

[The Escape Club]

Pedestrian!! Insulting!!



True.


I agree with distances as well, from 2100 odd up to 2600 odd, what's that all about? I understand that release points may play a part but that's a fairly large discrepancy.

[brent_L]

Backed it a place. Ouch!!

Track is terrible!!

[brent_L]

BANG!

Restrepo....HUGE!!

Blaster has one of the wildcards. Sydney or Perth the other?

[Richard prior]

Frenetic Pick6 is going to pay a motza!!!!

[littlelenny]

Good to see all the big names get through.
NZ heat need to do something there for next year, not sure what because if you dont run a heat and you make them come to aus to qualify thats unfair.
Vic heat as expected a real gem with all 4 earning their place into the final. Restreppo alhough going down was dynamite.
Menangle heats top guns beaten but i dont think they would of lost any admirers, Mach beauty again showed that at this level he is competitive with a sit.
Good win by Forever Gold but i just cant see it being a chance in the final.
W.A heat perfect drive by jnr the master of G/Park and as expected IV was too good.
Barrier draw will be crucial for most but pre draw Im leaning towards Smolda ive been a big fan since the chariots although i have the utmost respect for TTL (IMO hes the best horse in Australasia at the longer distance but he just doesnt seem to be comfortable around Menangle).
Very even final with most of the field having a winning chance if they get the right run.

[Greg Hando]

If they are going to keep this format only 2 heats will be run over the same distance. Why can't they run all heat's at Menangle then have a second round the following Saturday then the final the week later ? This way all runner's are on a level playing field and and it would make the trip worthwhile for all competitor's .The Bohemia Crystal could still be run as a group 1 and the cons could be run as a group 2 or 3 for the left over horses that competed in the heat's.This way all horse's compete on a level playing field and have 3 chances to make a quid.The horse's come and have to qualify for the Miracle Mile so why not for our show piece race of the industry.
The NZ heat was a farce, little more than trackwork, to me making a mockery of the new Inter concept as it seem's like it will stay as it is.

[Smoken]

Nothing exciting about last night at all to be honest. This format sucks and is very boring!

[Richard prior]

It's nothing like the ID of old and should be renamed. If they are going to run only 1 round of heats and then the final, Have 2 Heats in Victoria and 2 Heats at Menangle over a similar distance and make the Kiwi's come here to qualify. I'm a big fan of both Terror to Love and Smolda but the NZ heat was a joke last night. Apart from the winner in the QLD heat, The rest are average. I thought that WA's heat was reasonably strong but they should be in the same boat as the Kiwi's and come across if they want to compete. Honestly, This current format is all over the shop IMHO.

[gutwagon]

This new format is a sad joke ! Imagine how good the old format would have been at Menangle with all heats and final over the mile ! Could have been a speed explosion !

[Richard prior]

That would be a pretty good option as that's what Menangle is all about, Speed and fast times and maybe it could be called, THE SPEED EXPLOSION. The amenities look pretty good at Menangle now with plenty of room right next to the track and no problems for the horses to go out and work in between the heats and finals but to bring things onto a level playing field, Make all the horses race at Menangle and not all over the shop.

[mango]

If they are going to keep this format only 2 heats will be run over the same distance. Why can't they run all heat's at Menangle then have a second round the following Saturday then the final the week later ? This way all runner's are on a level playing field and and it would make the trip worthwhile for all competitor's .The Bohemia Crystal could still be run as a group 1 and the cons could be run as a group 2 or 3 for the left over horses that competed in the heat's.This way all horse's compete on a level playing field and have 3 chances to make a quid.The horse's come and have to qualify for the Miracle Mile so why not for our show piece race of the industry.
The NZ heat was a farce, little more than trackwork, to me making a mockery of the new Inter concept as it seem's like it will stay as it is.

Hi Greg

Over 12 months ago I mentioned on another thread about how all horses have to come here to qualify for the MM as they want to showcase Menangle, then to run the Inter as this format they have is a ........ joke. To be honest all they have done is contradicted themselves as one minute they want them here and then next they give away heats to other states. They go on how they have spent so much money on Menangle getting it up to world class facilities well why don't they use it. Now if they turn around and say they have positive feed back about this format I would say open your eye's as I havn't seen a positive written anywhere. As for the racing I didn't think it was that exciting, they should of raced over the same distance and to be honest I thought the QLD heat was more like a FFA. The old format showed not just how good you had to be to get into the final but showed how good trainers had to be to manage there horses. Fingers crossed that next year is the last time Menangle have the Inter unless it reverts back to the way it should be.

[Richard prior]

Hi Dallas, JD contradicted himself last night, The QLD winner Forever Gold is a mare and he said The Ladyship is not an option for her and she should have been here to compete in the Qualifiers. I would have no problems with that if it was the same for all the big races, MM, Inter, Ladyship etc. The beauty about the MM was that everybody knew that they had to compete in certain races, Newcastle Mile etc and that was great and now they are running qualifiers all over the shop for the Inter which really seems like a contradiction.

[mango]

Hi Richard

As good as mare that Forever Gold is she would of been more suited to a Ladyship mile than a 3000m Inter, in saying that she has an invite and I can understand why the connections will head to the Inter as it's a race everyone wants to be in and I wish the connections all the best. Do they have the powers to give a mare a wild card for the Ladyship as I'm not sure on the race conditions. Also I don't think Forever Gold has raced beyond 2138m.

[aussiebreno]

Hi Richard

As good as mare that Forever Gold is she would of been more suited to a Ladyship mile than a 3000m Inter, in saying that she has an invite and I can understand why the connections will head to the Inter as it's a race everyone wants to be in and I wish the connections all the best. Do they have the powers to give a mare a wild card for the Ladyship as I'm not sure on the race conditions. Also I don't think Forever Gold has raced beyond 2138m.

A mare who qualifies for the ID gets an auto invite to the Ladyship I am pretty sure. Also a 4yo who qualifies for the Interdom gets a spot in the chariots.

[mightymo]

A mare who qualifies for the ID gets an auto invite to the Ladyship I am pretty sure. Also a 4yo who qualifies for the Interdom gets a spot in the chariots.

I dont think that is correct. i think the horse needs to have competed in one of the qualifying lead up races.

Forever Gold did run in the Robin Dundee but locked wheels and finished last I think. Theoretically she could be invited to the Ladyship

[Richard prior]

Might have to get Adam Fairley to give us a ruling on that but from what JD said last night, Forever Gold will have to run in the Interdom. It's pretty rare for a mare to make the Interdom final these days and it certainly would look good on her Broodmare resume.

[mightymo]

The owners of FG have said that they do wish to go in the ID, so there is no issue

[gutwagon]

This forum is full of punters, owners, breeders, trainers, drivers and trotting fans yet I have not seen one comment in favour of the current format for the ID . Take note NSWHR . We are the people that you need to get to keep putting our hands into our pockets to keep the sport going ! Please pull your heads out of the sand before it's too late !

[Maorisidol]

This forum is full of punters, owners, breeders, trainers, drivers and trotting fans yet I have not seen one comment in favour of the current format for the ID . Take note NSWHR . We are the people that you need to get to keep putting our hands into our pockets to keep the sport going ! Please pull your heads out of the sand before it's too late !

Gotta agree with u Rick.
I considered going to Melton for the Inter Dominion last night but there of course was only 1 ID and to me like the Qld, WA and NZ heat they were nothing more than a weekly FFA, 2-4 good horses i consider worthy of ID level and the rest stocking fillers (in my perception of the ID).
there was no magic about any heat in an ID kind of way, no excitement of seeing something spectacular, no clashes of any titans.
Sure the Menangle heats proved to be interesting and Restrepo and Keayang was exciting but thats it.
So i didn't bother going to Melton for that FFA, had some family things going on too but the 4 trotters races would have got me there before that "ID"! And i mean that sincerely as i love the trotters.
Would love to see this format change to something closer to the original.
I think the original format was good, not sure why they thought it needed such radical changing, maybe just market it and advertise it better than they had previously like they do now.
The final will be a great race with an ID feel no doubt, its just the process to get there obviously is lacking on many fronts.

[2minuteman]

This forum is full of punters, owners, breeders, trainers, drivers and trotting fans yet I have not seen one comment in favour of the current format for the ID . Take note NSWHR . We are the people that you need to get to keep putting our hands into our pockets to keep the sport going ! Please pull your heads out of the sand before it's too late !
Along with many others I spent a lot of time and angst (all ignored by the powers that be) railing about the new format for the I.D.
Obviously the opinions of the "hoi poloi" are neither sought nor taken notice of so while it will make us feel a little better for having a whinge at least p*****g against the wind sees us getting something back.
A pox on them all.

[aussiebreno]

No time up on the Seel n print heat. Hope that gets sorted out quick.

[brent_L]

I got 2:53.6 (accounting for human error, give or take two tenths)
Approx 1.5 seconds faster than other Sydney heat.

[Richard prior]

Hi Harvey, That's good for the owners and I can fully understand where they are coming from, Thanks for that.

[littlelenny]

Terror to love still $12, cant believe it. I expected hed be round the $8 mark at max and thats taking into consideration his past problems handling the Menangle track. IMO run this race anywhere else and hed be favourite.
Ricky May said the track was too hard on TTL's feet in the MM so maybe with different shoeing and he is going around at his favourite distance i got have some of that $12 even though im a big Smolda fan.

[2minuteman]

Terror to love still $12, cant believe it. I expected hed be round the $8 mark at max and thats taking into consideration his past problems handling the Menangle track. IMO run this race anywhere else and hed be favourite.
Ricky May said the track was too hard on TTL's feet in the MM so maybe with different shoeing and he is going around at his favourite distance i got have some of that $12 even though im a big Smolda fan.
Problem withh TTL is that in NZ he is treated as a protected species.Gets to Menangle and icecream.

[aussiebreno]

Terror to love still $12, cant believe it. I expected hed be round the $8 mark at max and thats taking into consideration his past problems handling the Menangle track. IMO run this race anywhere else and hed be favourite.
Ricky May said the track was too hard on TTL's feet in the MM so maybe with different shoeing and he is going around at his favourite distance i got have some of that $12 even though im a big Smolda fan.Im starting to warm to him. Go through the rest and wouldn't surprise if any of them won, but just can't make a case to myself to back them.
Beautide ran down by Seel n Print and only just beat Gold Ace, he suspect over mile.
Smolda third up for so long fitness a question.
I'm Victorious only just got up last week.
For a Reason beaten by Mach Beauty.
GoldAce couldn't stay ahead of Beautide after heading him. Beaten down in Vic by Blaster twice.
Blaster. Thought entitled to finish closer in heat given consistency this season, is he still at his best? Already on pre post, will sit on it.
Restrepo outgunned most of season
Mach Beaut beaten most of season include few weeks back by Beautide.
Keayang Cullen only just got up in charmed run last week.
Livingoninterest couldn't win heat with a charmed lead.
Seel n print all season Ben beaten in Sydney FFAs
Forever Gold only just won a really weak heat.
Wartime Sweetheart charmed run still soundly beaten.

All horses have their positives obviously but how can you back any. Beautide best all season but 2 mile a query especially after last weeks result. Smolda, who knows how good he is, untested. Blaster awesome consistently since Vic Cup but just a touch off last week. Happy to be on him pre post though. Restrepo great last week but before that I reckon Blaster better runs at Ballarat and in Hunter Cup. For a Reason last two ordinary. Victorious only just a winner last week. Gold Ace beaten by Blaster fair and square twice down in Vic by Blaster, up in Sydney by Beautide.

Major Winning chances. Beautide, Smolda, Blaster, Restrepo.
I already backed Blaster. Keep it as minor bet. Back Restrepo as minor bet also. Both genuine stayers IMO. Beautide and Smolda too many question marks to take shorts. Admire them as best and deserved winners if they win.
FAR and Victorious two next best chances. Maybe Luke training FAR for the race. Victorious maybe some improvement off the heat or Im judging him harshly on heat run.
Don't think Gold Ace can win or Mach Beauty given Beautide beaten them both lately.
Rest can't win surely? But Keayang Cullen and Seel n Print and even Forever Gold won heats.

So Carribean Blaster and Restrepo my minor bets. My main bet I think I am doing unthinkable and switching allegiances to a Kiwi in Terror to Love. The equal of Christen Me early in the season, but beat him in NZ Cup. We all know what he done on Aust grand Curcuit this year. If he can bring that form he wins. But can he? Poor record at Menangle. But is that the travel and track or just the mile? Some of those runs too bad to be true. But last years ID his best run at Menangle for mine. No ITMQ to sail over top. Mah Sish had very easy run last year, don't think leader will get it as easy this year. Excel Stride only just got the ground last 100. A top run still last year, the 26.7 might have done him in, maybe can't use top speed for long, but can run just below top speed for a long way. A top stayer I reckon. Quinny beat him in Auckland Cup by just as far as the ID so not the track, just the mile for mine. Not afraid to roll forward, will at least be put in the race.

No matter the draws I don't think it makes much difference. Have to be a genius to work out how race run, where they end up and who gets the best luck. Maybe if something draws to lead or take an advantage of Mach Beauty leading, then taking lead off Mach Beauty. But other than that who knows. Lead might not even be best place this year.

[Messenger]

The barrier draw has probably made it more of a raffle

http://www.harnesslink.com/International/TAB-COM-AU-Inter-Dominion-Media-Release---2014-TAB-COM-AU-Inter-Dominion-Barrier-Draw

The Grand Final field in barrier draw order is:
Barrier Horse
1 Im Victorious
2 Livingontheinterest
3 Seel N Print
4 Keayang Cullen
5 Forever Gold
6 Mach Beauty
7 Wartime Sweetheart
8 Smolda
9 Caribbean Blaster
10 The Gold Ace
11 Restrepo
12 Beautide
13 For A Reason
14 Terror To Love
15 Franco Nelson 1st Emergency (Withdrawn)
16 Pub Blitz 2nd Emergency
17 Ardghal 3rd Emergency

Note that the Emergencies are not drawn into the field and take the place vacated by a scratching.

http://www.harnesslink.com/International/TAB-COM-AU-Inter-Dominion-Media-Release---2014-TAB-COM-AU-Inter-Dominion-Barrier-Draw

[aussiebreno]

The barrier draw has probably made it more of a raffle

http://www.harnesslink.com/International/TAB-COM-AU-Inter-Dominion-Media-Release---2014-TAB-COM-AU-Inter-Dominion-Barrier-Draw

The Grand Final field in barrier draw order is:
Barrier Horse
1 Im Victorious
2 Livingontheinterest
3 Seel N Print
4 Keayang Cullen
5 Forever Gold
6 Mach Beauty
7 Wartime Sweetheart
8 Smolda
9 Caribbean Blaster
10 The Gold Ace
11 Restrepo
12 Beautide
13 For A Reason
14 Terror To Love
15 Franco Nelson 1st Emergency (Withdrawn)
16 Pub Blitz 2nd Emergency
17 Ardghal 3rd Emergency

Note that the Emergencies are not drawn into the field and take the place vacated by a scratching.

http://www.harnesslink.com/International/TAB-COM-AU-Inter-Dominion-Media-Release---2014-TAB-COM-AU-Inter-Dominion-Barrier-Draw
Barrier draw done f all to try and separate them. I'm Victorious might be a winner for the draw. Could get the lead, but I'd still think Mach Beauty would be coming across for a look. Even if Victorious did hold him out he'd have to do a bit of work and do you want to be doing a bit of work in a 3000m race? Those two only possible early leaders. Keayang Cullen probably worth having a look but doubt he'd be able to cross. LOI, SnP, FG, WS best off looking for a cosy hole to sit in and see what they have the last 400m. Not sure what they do on Smolda and Carribean Blaster. I'd go back personally but can see then going forward. If you go forward you use one effort already, and Beautide, FAR and TTL are only going to make mid race moves, or block you in the running line so you no better off anyway. At least if you go back you fresh. Gold Ace has great gate speed, Mach Beauty would probably be looking to hand up, and if you challenged Victorious he would probably let up as well.
Restrepo. Should say pegs imo. Runs big risk of never seeing daylight. But if goes to running line then becomes just another challenger like CB, Smolda, Beautide, FAR, TTL. If he stays pegs saves ground, at least there is a chance a charmed run may seperate him from the other challengers.
Beautide, FAR and TTL. Assuming Restrepo stays pegs they will settle that order, with Smolda and CB on their backs. Cat and mouse, best drive, horse shows up on the day. TTL will definitely take off. I reckon other four should be seriously thinking about it as well. Who ends up being sucker carts them up, then still gets dragged back to one out two back or worse, because you wouldn't want to be on that horse.

Anybody with a crystal ball?

[mightymo]

Barrier draw done f all to try and separate them. I'm Victorious might be a winner for the draw. Could get the lead, but I'd still think Mach Beauty would be coming across for a look. Even if Victorious did hold him out he'd have to do a bit of work and do you want to be doing a bit of work in a 3000m race? Those two only possible early leaders. Keayang Cullen probably worth having a look but doubt he'd be able to cross. LOI, SnP, FG, WS best off looking for a cosy hole to sit in and see what they have the last 400m. Not sure what they do on Smolda and Carribean Blaster. I'd go back personally but can see then going forward. If you go forward you use one effort already, and Beautide, FAR and TTL are only going to make mid race moves, or block you in the running line so you no better off anyway. At least if you go back you fresh. Gold Ace has great gate speed, Mach Beauty would probably be looking to hand up, and if you challenged Victorious he would probably let up as well.
Restrepo. Should say pegs imo. Runs big risk of never seeing daylight. But if goes to running line then becomes just another challenger like CB, Smolda, Beautide, FAR, TTL. If he stays pegs saves ground, at least there is a chance a charmed run may seperate him from the other challengers.
Beautide, FAR and TTL. Assuming Restrepo stays pegs they will settle that order, with Smolda and CB on their backs. Cat and mouse, best drive, horse shows up on the day. TTL will definitely take off. I reckon other four should be seriously thinking about it as well. Who ends up being sucker carts them up, then still gets dragged back to one out two back or worse, because you wouldn't want to be on that horse.

Anybody with a crystal ball?

disagree on one particular point. Keayang Cullen will cross IV for fun. Not sure if he then hands up, but he is the fastest beginner on the front line and will be in the lead after 50m. IV may be able to get off pegs, and Mach Beauty might also get out hard, but KC COULD be the leader if they wanted to stay there

[Messenger]

Brendan, will Restrepo want to stay on the pegs or are the claims that he does not like to be cramped up, just a nonsense?

[aussiebreno]

disagree on one particular point. Keayang Cullen will cross IV for fun. Not sure if he then hands up, but he is the fastest beginner on the front line and will be in the lead after 50m. IV may be able to get off pegs, and Mach Beauty might also get out hard, but KC COULD be the leader if they wanted to stay there
I'm not too sure how I'm Victorious can come out. But I know they would rather lead than hand up. Going by the change in the market I was assuming he must have been able to hold his own. I know KC is quick beginner, but if he does indeed cross IV, thats just about race over for IV. MB will be up on the outside so Hall Jnr won't be able to squeeze out to the death (and maybe stroll to lead), so if KC does indeed cross then todays market change with Victorious coming in significantly is potentially a big moneymaker for those fans of KCs gate speed?

[aussiebreno]

Brendan, will Restrepo want to stay on the pegs or are the claims that he does not like to be cramped up, just a nonsense?
A non Mildura thread and you still get the word cramp into your posts :p

Maybe give the trainer a call.

[Messenger]

A non Mildura thread and you still get the word cramp into your posts :p

Maybe give the trainer a call.

VG Breno. :o

I might be able to track down the trainer and give her a call if anybody would reply to my thread:

http://www.harnessracingforum.com/showthread.php?5565-Who-s-Related-to-Who

[brent_L]

disagree on one particular point. Keayang Cullen will cross IV for fun. Not sure if he then hands up, but he is the fastest beginner on the front line and will be in the lead after 50m. IV may be able to get off pegs, and Mach Beauty might also get out hard, but KC COULD be the leader if they wanted to stay there
Exactly! Keayang to the pegs first and his fate of finishing in the money will depend on whether Mach Beauty tries to press on or looks to quickly duck in behind. Jnr will have room to manoeuvre to go get the lead but as Brendan mentions it's gonna burn some energy. His backers can rest assured he will make the correct decision......he always does. The only other leader thru 800m could be Smolda pressing forward IMO.

[brent_L]

I'm not too sure how I'm Victorious can come out. But I know they would rather lead than hand up. Going by the change in the market I was assuming he must have been able to hold his own. I know KC is quick beginner, but if he does indeed cross IV, thats just about race over for IV. MB will be up on the outside so Hall Jnr won't be able to squeeze out to the death (and maybe stroll to lead), so if KC does indeed cross then todays market change with Victorious coming in significantly is potentially a big moneymaker for those fans of KCs gate speed?
The change in the market is just the corporates being soft......once again! As we all know, they tighten the purse strings at any hint of danger. There's no way IV should be anywhere near $5 and there is still $8/$2.60 out there which is a little closer to the mark IMO.

[Richard prior]

Wow, It's a bit like a handicap with most of the big boys drawn 8 to 14.

[Njcstables]

A non Mildura thread and you still get the word cramp into your posts :p

Maybe give the trainer a call.

Lol

[Njcstables]

Keayang Cullen leads with head on chest. I love smolda as a horse but two soft runs after a long lay off into a 3000m Id final is a big query for mine. Trainer is a genius though. I doubt very much restrepo will be on pegs.

[Danno]

A non Mildura thread and you still get the word cramp into your posts :p

Maybe give the trainer a call.

V funny, Forum auditor of the year 2013/14 Brenno by 6 lengths.!!!

[Danno]

Peronal opinion about this race a bit different to most replies, being a race over almost 2 miles there is a lot of "chat' about what might happen in the early stages, possibly because we see a lot of races affected by the early stages at Menangle, what I think we are missing is that most of those races are over 1 mile with little options for alternative tactics being available.

I reckon two horses will come into their own over this distance, Caribean Blaster and Beautide, neither have the most favourable draws, all the more reason to put them in your calculations over 3,000 metres, neither will be spending much petrol in the early scramble, one thing that some trainers and drivers understand and many do not is that once you elevate your horse's heart rate, it can only stay in that elevated zone for so long before he/she starts to capitulate, some horses can recover with a steady quarter here and there, but many cannot sufficiently to put in a big finish, and a big finish will decide top class races where the field is reasonably even over a distance that allows tactics other than "go forward and find a spot close to the lead", as is the case with this field.

If the winner of this race comes from any of the horses that go hard early looking for prominent positions I will "bare my arse in front of David Jones'" as the old saying went!!

cheers,
Dan

[broncobrad]

Dan, I don't think anyone will be queuing up for that view and don't think you have to many concerns...Beautide certainly continues to rise, but for mine, the Blaster gets his best chance bar none, to take out our greatest race. If I am wrong, guess I will be side by side with you in Castlereagh St...Yewww, ain't nobody gonna like that sight!!! Go CB.

[Mighty Atom]

There will be three horses vying for the lead: Mach Beauty, Keayang Cullen and one no one has mentioned, Livingontheinterest. Comes out very fast and I reckon he will cross I'm Victorious.

[Maorisidol]

There will be three horses vying for the lead: Mach Beauty, Keayang Cullen and one no one has mentioned, Livingontheinterest. Comes out very fast and I reckon he will cross I'm Victorious.

I think i heard on In The Gig Greg Hayes asked "Mouse" Brennan about leading and he said he was confident he could hold out Livingontheinterest...

Hey you can't complain about the Perth boys getting done over with their barrier draws Rod! Gotta be happy with that...

Personally id hate to lead in this race, 3000m, high pressure, as Danno said i think the winner will be doing nothing for the first 2000 then comin home strong out wide down the straight.

[Mighty Atom]

I think i heard on In The Gig Greg Hayes asked "Mouse" Brennan about leading and he said he was confident he could hold out Livingontheinterest...

Hey you can't complain about the Perth boys getting done over with their barrier draws Rod! Gotta be happy with that...

Personally id hate to lead in this race, 3000m, high pressure, as Danno said i think the winner will be doing nothing for the first 2000 then comin home strong out wide down the straight.

I'm dumbfounded!, once again Ash. What are the chances of the two W.A. horses drawing the 1 and 2 ?

[Njcstables]

I'm dumbfounded!, once again Ash. What are the chances of the two W.A. horses drawing the 1 and 2 ?

Roughly 30000 to 1!

[Messenger]

I was thinking more like 90/1 Nathan

[brent_L]

Great coverage from Sky of breakfast with the stars the other morning. It was very insightful and I especially enjoyed the chat the boys had with Tony Herlihy. Really wish there was a programme each week that delivered similar........In The Gig simply doesn't cut it IMO.

I'm terribly worried about the possible state of the inside of the track tomorrow......it's the one thing that could mar a great days racing. Fingers crossed hey!

[Messenger]

What sort of weather have you guys been having up there - down here we have had virtually no rain for 2 months

[brent_L]

Had 15ml since Wednesday plus 15-25 today. Tomorrow 60% chance of 1-5ml.....it doesn't bode well for those on the pegs going on a fortnight ago.

[The Escape Club]

Not long arrived at our accommodation at Narellan, belting with rain.

[Messenger]

I think either TTL or Smolda will win with the Blaster a good thing for the place.
I wonder why HRV did not make their Melton fixture coincide with Menangle - I guess a few more at the track cannot match the potential of the less busy twilight betting slot.

[brent_L]

I'm keen on CB to place as well Kevin. Reckon there's a good bet over where Samuel L Jackson bets.......CB top six @ $2-.
good luck

[Richard prior]

Anyone know the latest odds for TTL??? I noticed he was 18/1 yesterday.

[littlelenny]

The rain has really thrown a spanner in the works but I think i'll stick with Smolda with a little side one on TTL at that price cant go past him. After the barrier draw i was warming towards IV thinking he was a sure thing of running atleast a place if not winning especially with jnr on board, but now with the rain that ideas gone out the window. Throw in the Blaster who is as tuff as nails and always manages to find himself somewhere in the finish and FAR who when driven cold finishes his races in devasting fashion and i think thats me done. Tactics are going to be ever so important early positions and mid race moves will be made and im pretty sure we will see the winner come from the outside of the track.

[Greg Hando]

Lucky it's not at Parkes we've had 464 points of rain or 116 mls today.

I think with the track on the soft side TTL comes right into it with FAR not far away.

[Richard prior]

Hi Greg, That's astonishing for Parkes but any rain in the country is good. We've had a hell of a lot in the last few days in Sydney so I think there could be a few boilovers today. It certainly puts a new slant on all the races at Menangle for the big day.

[jimmy777]

I think there is one driver in a lot of trouble after knocking down Im Victorious in the Inter Dominion???????

[brent_L]

Astonishing! Was trying to think of a way to describe the win........Greg Hayes then said it.......'he was involved in the 26.5 first quater getting to the chair, from there he just owned them'. Astonishing!

[Greg Hando]

I think there is one driver in a lot of trouble after knocking down Im Victorious in the Inter Dominion???????

They have taken Im Victorious straight to the university for treatment so must be serious.The driver should get the same amount of time as the horse that was knocked down.

[brent_L]

Excuse my ignorance, I was too busy lauding the winner to go back and check the interference. Is someone willing to name & shame??

[LisaB25]

lost a lot of blood and possibly tendon damage...poor bugger.
Panella pulled out from behind smolda and took him out..

[Maorisidol]

lost a lot of blood and possibly tendon damage...poor bugger.
Panella pulled out from behind smolda and took him out..
Yep, just watched replay of the incident several times and couldn't see Lauren turn her head to see if safe AT ALL! Big holiday and should be a serious fine...i seriously don't think she knows how wide her cart is that girl seen her do it before.
Beautide huge, congrats to the Tassie boys!
Both Mc Carthys out late both flew home, same for Restrepo...
Great race great result really.

[brent_L]

Pretty sure she already had a 'holiday' that was to commence tonight.

[Greg Hando]

She is already suspended but was aloud to drive this week and start suspension after today. She should get 6 month's for it bloody discgraceful performance. I believe if you are suspended you should start it after the day you get it. Did David Miles get banything for running up the ass of the horse in front of him on Mindarie Priddy ?
Mark Purdon 10 day's for his drive on smolda.

[p plater]

Pretty sure she already had a 'holiday' that was to commence tonight.

She got 18 days in Derby Heat http://www.trotstv.com.au/?mc=PC220214&rn=3. Exactly the same as today.....she doesn't even look to see if there's room to come out.
No wonder she likes to lead.
I trust IV will recover to race again.

[aussiebreno]

I knew he was best horse in race but I had no idea how he would handle the distance and I had even less of an idea he'd be able to I'd it so tough and run away from them like he did. What a win Beautide.

[Danno]

GREAT run and a GREAT drive Beautide, hail the new hero of harness racing, everyone who regularly visits this forum knows I'm a huge fan, but by gee both horse and the young man further consolidated my opinion of them both.

Great to see the Rattray family enjoy the success they have well and truly earned, there are no overnight rags to riches stories, this family have been exceptional trainers for decades and decades, they finally found the horse to display their collective skills.

A wonderful day for Harness Racing in my opinion, and can I say it again....wonderful drive! on the best horse in the race!

[mango]

Not sure how true this is as I read it else where

Drivers were told 70 days will be the starting point for interference in the Inter plus fines. Either way 8 or 10 wks isn't enough as at know stage did she even look to see where the others were on her outside. I've seen a lot lesser incidents get 6wks.

Congrats to the Rattray family on there win, Beautide went super and there will be plenty more win's to come.

[aussiebreno]

Yep, just watched replay of the incident several times and couldn't see Lauren turn her head to see if safe AT ALL! Big holiday and should be a serious fine...i seriously don't think she knows how wide her cart is that girl seen her do it before.
Beautide huge, congrats to the Tassie boys!
Both Mc Carthys out late both flew home, same for Restrepo...
Great race great result really.
Hi Ash, good too see you back on the forum. Last season we argued about IMTQ, after the Miracle Mile we argued about Beautide and Trigger. I am hoping you will be around in another 9 months time so we can squabble over horses again and you can make it a trifecta. You really are a great judge. Cheers.

[aussiebreno]

Not sure how true this is as I read it else where

Drivers were told 70 days will be the starting point for interference in the Inter plus fines. Either way 8 or 10 wks isn't enough as at know stage did she even look to see where the others were on her outside. I've seen a lot lesser incidents get 6wks.

Congrats to the Rattray family on there win, Beautide went super and there will be plenty more win's to come.The AFL do double suspensions for the Grand Final, so if true re 70 days a starting point, I don't think anyone would argue a case against a 6 month suspension, just as dangerous as what Cramp done.

[craig]

Stewards report says she got 8 weeks.

[mango]

A driver got called into the stewards room after a Group 2 last wkend due to whip action and he was informed that if he received a fine it would be double the $$$ due to it being a Group race. So if it was to be the same for suspensions are they saying we would of gave you 4 wks but you get 8 wks due to it being a group 1, if that's the case I think they need to have a good look at the replay again. I agree with you totally Brendan, just as dangerous as what Cramp done. Looking forward to what spin they put on this as to why Lauren only received 8 wks.

[mango]

Just read this

Vets have just informed connections of I'm Victorious that he has severely damaged 2 tendons and will almost never race again. For connections I hope he can get back to the race's one day as he is such an exciting horse with loads of ability.

[LisaB25]

8 wks...disgraceful!
the excuse for pulling the wrong rein is not acceptable IMO..(as said on sky later after the race)
the outcome was devastating and its just fortunate that no other runners were caught up in the interference.

[mango]

8 wks...disgraceful!
the excuse for pulling the wrong rein is not acceptable IMO..(as said on sky later after the race)
the outcome was devastating and its just fortunate that no other runners were caught up in the interference.

That's a poor excuse, maybe she should go back to the trials and learn to drive again.

[Lucky Camilla"s Lovechild]

I'm sorry, but 8 weeks is just not acceptable considering the damage caused and the status of the race. Protected species!!!!

[jimmy777]

8 wks...disgraceful!
the excuse for pulling the wrong rein is not acceptable IMO..(as said on sky later after the race)
the outcome was devastating and its just fortunate that no other runners were caught up in the interference.

I think you'll find that there were other runners inconvenienced due to the incident as per Reid Sanders on Sky when interviewed by the panel after the last race.

[aussiebreno]

I'm sorry, but 8 weeks is just not acceptable considering the damage caused and the status of the race. Protected species!!!!too think she had a suspended suspension and probably shouldn't have been driving today anyway.

[Lucky Camilla"s Lovechild]

too think she had a suspended suspension and probably shouldn't have been driving today anyway.
If memory serves. She was also rubbed out round November, but was allowed to drive in NZ on Suave Stuey Lombo. Seriously, some of these stewards must part time at the adult parole board!!!

[LisaB25]

I think you'll find that there were other runners inconvenienced due to the incident as per Reid Sanders on Sky when interviewed by the panel after the last race.


Yes, others were inconvenienced in the incident. But luckily not to the same extent of IV, who may never race again..

[Greg Hando]

HERE IS THE STEWARD'S REPORT FOR THE iNTER.
RACE 7 – TAB.COM.AU INTER DOMINION GRAND FINAL – 3009 METRES
All horses have been located in the HRNSW retention facility since 12 noon Thursday 27 February 2014.
Pre race urine and blood samples were taken from all runners.
An application from the connections of MACH BEAUTY to drive the horse aggressively was approved. The horse worked forward to obtain the lead, however the lead was taken off it in the first quarter of the last mile.
Passing the winning post the first time TERROR TO LOVE NZ broke and galloped for a short distance. SMOLDA, which was racing to the outside, was inconvenienced.
SMOLDA commenced a three wide run from the 1800 metres and obtained cover near the 1700 metres when BEAUTIDE came out three wide forward of it. BEAUTIDE then raced three wide without cover until it worked forward and obtained the lead approaching the 1200 metres.
TERROR TO LOVE NZ commenced a three wide run without cover near the 1200 metres.
M Purdon, the driver of SMOLDA, pleaded guilty to a charge under Rule 163(1)(a) in that between the 1200 metres until a point passing the 1100 metres he jostled with TERROR TO LOVE NZ, which had to be checked and vacate its position in the running line. M Purdon was suspended for a period of 10 days which will commence at midnight on Friday 7 March 2014.
TERROR TO LOVE NZ raced three wide without cover from near the 1100 metres.
Near the 500 metres FOR A REASON shifted out of the running line and forced WARTIME SWEETHEART NZ wider on the track.
KEAYANG CULLEN, LIVINGONINTEREST and RESTREPO were held up for clear running in the early stages of the home straight.
L Panella, the driver of MACH BEAUTY, pleaded guilty to a charge under Rule 163(1)(a) in that passing the 100 metres she shifted out when insufficiently clear of IM VICTORIOUS, resulting in her sulky contacting the legs of IM VICTORIOUS, which checked and broke. FOREVER GOLD, which was following, locked wheels with IM VICTORIOUS, and had to be checked. TERROR TO LOVE NZ, LIVINGONINTEREST and CARIBBEAN BLASTER were also hampered as a result of the incident. IM VICTORIOUS sustained substantial lacerations to its off foreleg in the incident. L Panella was suspended for a period of 8 weeks which will commence at midnight on Thursday 20 March, following the expiration of her 18 day suspension commencing at midnight on Sunday 2 March 2014.
Post race swab samples were taken from the winner BEAUTIDE, SEEL N PRINT, FOR A REASON and SMOLDA.

[Greg Hando]

Why shouldn't she be charged with this rule as well as i believe the penalty would be greater ?

relating to careless driving

168. (1) A person shall not before, during or after a race drive in a manner which in the opinion of the Stewards is careless, reckless, incompetent, intimidatory, improper, foul or likely to endanger persons or horses.

(2) A person who fails to comply with sub rule (1) is guilty of an offence.

[Greg Hando]

NSW Penalties.

PENALTY GUIDELINES FOR DRIVING OFFENCES PENALTY GUIDELINES FOR DRIVING OFFENCES.
Rule 163 (1) (a) & 168 Rule 163 (1) (a) & 168 (1)

21 days Horse checked, tightened or jostled

28 days Horse checked, tightened or jostled on first turn

28 days Horse checked and broke

35 days Horse checked and broke on first turn

35 days Horse checked causing fall or driver dislodged
*A premium of up to 21 days may be applied for cases where a driver is found to have displayed a high degree of
carelessness

**Charges under more serious sections of the rule may attract higher penalties
Good Driving Record Penalty Discounts Good Driving Record Penalty Discounts iscounts
14 days discount 600 drives or 2 years since last suspension under these rules

10 days discount 300 drives or 12 months since last suspension under these rules

7 days discount 150 drives and no more than 2 suspensions in the last 12 months under these rules
Guilty Plea Guilty Plea
7 Days Discount

*It must be noted that whilst discounts will be applied no penalty will be reduced below 7 days


Premium for Poor Driving Record Premium for Poor Driving Record

14 days premium 6 or more suspensions in last 400 drives or 12 months

*Furthermore for “win at all costs” attitude or breaches in feature races under the above rules monetary penalties
may also be included. Feature races may also result in higher base penalty being considered

[LisaB25]

They've just confirmed snoops racing career is over. he's still not out of the woods, the next 10 days will be touch & go and hopefully he remains infection free.
Really feel for the Brennan's at this time, just devastating...always happens to the top ones.

[littlelenny]

Dont know how they did it but they done a mighty good job with the track today it didnt apperar to be anything like 2 weeks ago,
I had my reservations i honestly didnt think Beautide could win and especially not do the work he did and still pull away at the finish. Super win and he seems to be getting even better with every run hes the complete package he is so versatile.
Very sad news abt IV. I cant believe that yet again he gets ko'd and now it looks like hes career could be over, definetly not fair.

[Messenger]

I knew he was best horse in race but I had no idea how he would handle the distance and I had even less of an idea he'd be able to I'd it so tough and run away from them like he did. What a win Beautide.

Same here - after the race they were saying what a great stayer he is, I did not know this until today. Sensational. He has now won over $1M in half a season (plus 2 days)

[mango]

Why shouldn't she be charged with this rule as well as i believe the penalty would be greater ?

relating to careless driving

168. (1) A person shall not before, during or after a race drive in a manner which in the opinion of the Stewards is careless, reckless, incompetent, intimidatory, improper, foul or likely to endanger persons or horses.

(2) A person who fails to comply with sub rule (1) is guilty of an offence.

Hi Greg

After reading your post on rule 168 (1) I can't understand why she wasn't charged with this rule, hopefully Adam Fairley from hrnsw will be on here today and will be able to clarify this.

[Lucky Camilla"s Lovechild]

Hi Greg

After reading your post on rule 168 (1) I can't understand why she wasn't charged with this rule, hopefully Adam Fairley from hrnsw will be on here today and will be able to clarify this.
You'd think twice about jumping in a car with her.

[Richard prior]

Maybe a Dodgem car!!

[Pena]

This is on top of her taking the legs of Lettucerockthem last week which was as bad and only luck prevented serious injury to that horse.
I have been saying her ego has overtaken her ability for at least 6 months.
Glad to see everyone on my side.

[arlington]

Did Mr Sanders say the enquiries were continuing?
Even though it doesn't deal with the interference would have thought there may have been a look at not continuing to pursue the inside run as the best option. If so, and if guilty, served concurrently?
Have heard one of the other drivers in the Final has apparently tweeted told "70 days will be the starting point" for interference in this race. Plus fines.

[mango]

This is on top of her taking the legs of Lettucerockthem last week which was as bad and only luck prevented serious injury to that horse.
I have been saying her ego has overtaken her ability for at least 6 months.
Glad to see everyone on my side.

Twice in 7 days and only gets 8 wks for second offence is pathetic. I remember after Maitland they were demanding respect, well one must show it to receive it which has not been the case.

[Boydy]

After all you have been ostracised, by in particular Mr Varcoe and his associates maybe you could demand an apology, Pena.

Or maybe age has taught you to be more humble.

Interested on your point of view Jamie.

[Messenger]

maybe a dodgem car

:) :) :) :)

[Pena]

Boydy, thanks for the credit I have been amazed by the arrogance since the Newcastle Herald comments of Ms Panella. But I can take it on my wrinked chin. Hopefully harness racing realises its ignorance including Jamie and his cronies.

[Messenger]

Not really following NSW, I have not bought into the Panella debate (maybe a little worried it might be like the Manning bashing that suggested Kerryn could not drive in her early years) but having just watched it again you have to say what she did was criminal. If 8weeks is the best the authorities can do then maybe her peers will have to deal with her. I can remember racing with an unsafe rider in my cycling days but we soon let him know how it was going to be.

[Boydy]

Hard not to feel sorry for connections of I'm Victorious.

Don't expect your horse to be carved up by follow competitor.

Hopefully horse is abvle to get back.

[aussiebreno]

Boydy, thanks for the credit I have been amazed by the arrogance since the Newcastle Herald comments of Ms Panella. But I can take it on my wrinked chin. Hopefully harness racing realises its ignorance including Jamie and his cronies.While I believe her driving leaves a lot to be desired, I think looking after the back pocket and being forthright about this decision is fine. But while we paging Jamie, a $7000 C1-C4 Mares only race at Wagga did not stand up for Sat night. Bit of a slap in the face for you and programmers. Thoughts?

[Grinder]

Hard not to feel sorry for connections of I'm Victorious.

Don't expect your horse to be carved up by follow competitor.

Hopefully horse is abvle to get back.

Sadly IV will not race again. In fact he is now fighting for his life.
http://au.news.yahoo.com/thewest/sport/racing/a/21782626/star-wa-pacer-im-victorious-fights-for-life/

Shocking outcome, whatever way it goes, and the penalty given to the offending driver should take this into account, in my view.

Beautide's win was one of the very best IMO. Deadset shame this race will also be remembered as the tragic and traumatic end for a young and brilliant pacer on the way up.

[Pena]

Breno not sure exactly what you are coming at. I see your horse got claimed last Friday night at Melton for $3K SEEMED A CHEAP BUY. Not sure who you and your handicappers are, but I am assuming you had a horse nommed for this race and did not get a run.

[Boydy]

Sadly IV will not race again. In fact he is now fighting for his life.
http://au.news.yahoo.com/thewest/spo...ghts-for-life/ (http://au.news.yahoo.com/thewest/sport/racing/a/21782626/star-wa-pacer-im-victorious-fights-for-life/)

Shocking outcome, whatever way it goes, and the penalty given to the offending driver should take this into account, in my view.

Beautide's win was one of the very best IMO. Deadset shame this race will also be remembered as the tragic and traumatic end for a young and brilliant pacer on the way up.

Hopefully this is pessimistic and the horse will survive and race again.

[aussiebreno]

Breno not sure exactly what you are coming at. I see your horse got claimed last Friday night at Melton for $3K SEEMED A CHEAP BUY. Not sure who you and your handicappers are, but I am assuming you had a horse nommed for this race and did not get a run.
Yes $3K might be a good buy for somebody, not surprised he got claimed.
No, I didn't have a horse nommed for the mares only race. Just an observer.

Jaimie has been among the strong push for mares only racing. HRNSW program a mares only race. It doesn't stand up. That bit was for Jaimie, not you Jack. Apologies for the confusion.

[Pena]

Brenno, mares races always struggle to stand up. I hear there has been at least 1 resignation in the Tritton camp in the last fortnight. Appears the egos are also affecting the staff at the stables.

[ShaneRead]

Sadly IV will not race again. In fact he is now fighting for his life.
http://au.news.yahoo.com/thewest/spo...ghts-for-life/ (http://au.news.yahoo.com/thewest/sport/racing/a/21782626/star-wa-pacer-im-victorious-fights-for-life/)

Shocking outcome, whatever way it goes, and the penalty given to the offending driver should take this into account, in my view.

Beautide's win was one of the very best IMO. Deadset shame this race will also be remembered as the tragic and traumatic end for a young and brilliant pacer on the way up.

Hopefully this is pessimistic and the horse will survive and race again.

We are all absolutely devastated.
He is bubbly today after his surgery so just hope he can stay tough and keep away any possible infections.
Anyone who knows the horse knows how kind natured he was and didn't deserve this.

[mango]

All the best to you and connections with IV, your correct Shane he didn't deserve it as know horse does.

[trish]

Feel gutted for you guys, everyone hopes he can pull through.
All the best.

[Toohard]

We are all absolutely devastated.
He is bubbly today after his surgery so just hope he can stay tough and keep away any possible infections.
Anyone who knows the horse knows how kind natured he was and didn't deserve this.

All the best to you Shane, IV and team.

[HarnessFan]

It took the port Arthur tragedy to bring in gun laws, maybe it takes a tragedy of this magnitude to bring in the relegation rule.
Greg Hayes had the right intention on In The Gig, redneck Radley belittled Greg and stopped a common-sense push for a common-sense rule.


Owners need more protection, as for the punters - every race has a winner.

[Triple V]

Call me Nostradamus.*
For years I've been banging on about the weak as water efforts of successive groups of Stewards with regard to intereference and their INEXPLICABLE reluctance to enforce the relegation rule.Well now....Special Agent Nelson Van Alden and Co have reaped that*which they have sown.*It was only a matter of time before a horse's career or life was ended not to mention that of a driver.*I hope the connections of I'm Victorious go to Civil Court and that they sue the arse off everyone who has played a part in this...first & second defendants alike.*If that is what it takes to finally get this blight on the Industry sorted then sobeit.*What happened yesterday has been on the cards for a long time now and it was an abject disgrace.

[trish]

Triple . It's Mark . All I can say is "HEAR HEAR" . Can't add anything to that . A retired steward told me when I was doing my fellowship training , to gain my license , that he was waiting for the day that someone sued for compensation over a driving offence .

[Lethal]

We see many cases of interference that are accidental, however from the video, this one is purely incompetent driving. If the quote 'that I pulled the wrong rein' is substantiated then further investigation into the incident is surely warranted. This was the sports premier race, tarnished by a driver injuring a grand circuit horse when driving a beaten horse. The penalty for this incident does not reflect the incompetence of the driver. Surely this matter should come under further investigation about the continued licencing and like the Gallops should be referred to a panel of 'peers' for review.
This disrespect of other drivers and horses is not what this sport is about.

[Pena]

The facts are the one the week before and the impotent 18 days penalty showed stewards are no serious. Lucky LRT did not end up broken down as well. Sheer arrogance.

[Danno]

Another perspective

Dreadful incident and as a horse lover first and a harness participant second, my thoughts and best wishes to a mighty horse and his dedicated connections, I hope everything that can assit you all with his recovery happens at godspeed.

Now the alternative perspective.

I wonder if the damage sustained to this wonderful horse would be as devastating if it was a more conventional sulky rather than one of these "heavy as buggery, with sharp edges everywhere" US style carts.

I dont know how many of you have any experience with sulkies but I can tell you they are VERY HEAVY compared to the stainless tube sulkies they have beaten in the fashion stakes.

Weight makes an awful big difference during incidents like this one, if a light weight driver had caused that type of interference in a typical Stainless sulky the gig would have lifted up on impact, possibly tipping the offending driver out, but also, more importantly by tipping up there would have been some "give" as in the sulky lifting and lessening the blow to the horse's legs.

How do I know this? When I started driving in races a million years ago I was seventeen years old and weighed about 55 kilos.....I got tipped out almost every time there was a clash between my cart and anyone else, be that the horse or the other person's cart. As I matured and filled out a bit ( some would say too much) I get tipped out less and less.

Some people are gunna think I'm joking about this but I can assure you all I am not, there are a number of aspects about these sulkies that I have concerns about, but the weight and the angles of the wheel stays are not kind to horses when this type of interference happens IMO.

cheers,
Dan

[Greg Hando]

Brenno, mares races always struggle to stand up. I hear there has been at least 1 resignation in the Tritton camp in the last fortnight. Appears the egos are also affecting the staff at the stables.

Yes the bloke concerned resigned to take up a position with another top trainer to learn other different ways to work horse's, he is only young and want's to learn the game from as many capable trainer's as he can, and that is what he told me, nothing about ego's mentioned.

[Greg Hando]

Further to that Dan in a race at Dubbo last year in a fall the bullet tip went into the forehead of a horse and had to be put down the hole was the size of a 50 cent piece.

[Triple V]

Another perspective

Dreadful incident and as a horse lover first and a harness participant second, my thoughts and best wishes to a mighty horse and his dedicated connections, I hope everything that can assit you all with his recovery happens at godspeed.

Now the alternative perspective.

I wonder if the damage sustained to this wonderful horse would be as devastating if it was a more conventional sulky rather than one of these "heavy as buggery, with sharp edges everywhere" US style carts.

I dont know how many of you have any experience with sulkies but I can tell you they are VERY HEAVY compared to the stainless tube sulkies they have beaten in the fashion stakes.

Weight makes an awful big difference during incidents like this one, if a light weight driver had caused that type of interference in a typical Stainless sulky the gig would have lifted up on impact, possibly tipping the offending driver out, but also, more importantly by tipping up there would have been some "give" as in the sulky lifting and lessening the blow to the horse's legs.

How do I know this? When I started driving in races a million years ago I was seventeen years old and weighed about 55 kilos.....I got tipped out almost every time there was a clash between my cart and anyone else, be that the horse or the other person's cart. As I matured and filled out a bit ( some would say too much) I get tipped out less and less.

Some people are gunna think I'm joking about this but I can assure you all I am not, there are a number of aspects about these sulkies that I have concerns about, but the weight and the angles of the wheel stays are not kind to horses when this type of interference happens IMO.

cheers,
Dan

Great point Dan. (2nd one)

[Danno]

Further to that Dan in a race at Dubbo last year in a fall the bullet tip went into the forehead of a horse and had to be put down the hole was the size of a 50 cent piece.

Geez Greg,
I had no idea that had happened anywhere, but it is ( the VERY hard and pointy shaft ends) another of the concerns I have about these sulkies, and please don't anyone take this the wrong way, I wonder about the approval processes and procedures for new products and how adequate and/or appropriate they are, I AM NOT having a "benefit of hindsight" shot at anyone, just thinking sometimes incidents like yesterdays' can be the catalyst for re-inspection of how we do things.

Def reckon there should be further investigatio n into sulky design and how it impacts outcomes in racing incidents..

Cheers,
Dan

[mango]

If memory serves. She was also rubbed out round November, but was allowed to drive in NZ on Suave Stuey Lombo. Seriously, some of these stewards must part time at the adult parole board!!!

L Panella Newcastle race 1 9-11-13 after the winning post at the conclusion of the race directed her horse Heza Presidente down onto the back of Ballochbuie and in doing so made contact with K Barnes helmet. Stewards believed the appropriate penalty was 6wks but gave her 4wks due to feature race's coming up.

So that's 3 incidents in 6months, with 2 in the last 8 day's. Surely the stewards would be aware of this, I'm still puzzled to why only 8 wks for a 3rd offence in a short time.

[Horses 4 courses]

If I was L Panella, I would be handing my drivers license in! I do not know the connections of this poor horse but I am incredibly angry that this incident has happened and the penalty is so ridiculously inappropriate for her actions. It is a dangerous enough occupation for both horses and drivers without drivers being reckless. As a horse lover my heart goes out to this poor horse fighting for its life and the wonderful people connected to him- good luck and hopefully at worst- a life spent basking in the paddock for Im Victorious.

[Richard prior]

Mr Sanders might have made a knee jerk decision yesterday dishing out 8 weeks when it could have been further investigated and a longer penalty possibly handed out. 3 serious incidents in 6 months would surely call for a longer penalty than 8 weeks.

[Maorisidol]

On In The Gig tonite they briefly spoke about it and Adam Hamilton said Lauren was seen hugging Michael Brennan and crying saying she was so sorry.
Michael has no hard feelings toward her and that there is no "bad blood" between them, according to Adam...Yeah right! Thats a media guy doin his best cover up...im sure he got some vibes from lots of people on track and not very good ones at that.
ps. just talking to my wife about the "incident" and explained its now her 3rd major in a fairly short time. now my wife is no trotting person and she said "this person doesn't sound very nice" and the incident where she "drove purposely into another driver after the race was simply bullying".

[LisaB25]

really feel for yourself and connections Shane.
hoping he pulls through and can be bought home fo a happy retirement.

[HaroldParker]

Lauren made an error of judgment yesterday but she's not a dangerous driver.

[BenScadden]

With a string of offences, I'd find it hard to label her anything other than dangerous, Bob. She may be the nicest person in the world - and incredibly remorseful - but what she did to Im Victorious was incompetent, reckless, downright dangerous. Poor judgement creates dangerous situations. I don't find incompetence a plausible or valid excuse. For me, her continued inability to avoid causing interference means she shouldn't be driving.

[Viv Strangman]

Don't watch enough Australian racing to comment on her driving over there but in her short time in Nz last year she drove terribly. Lost 100m at the start with her horse at Ashburton and then she sent him via the cape which completely flattened him for his other runs in Nz. The incident on Sunday was as bad as it gets but the stewards didn't see it like that. Mark Purdon got 10 weeks for shifting ground in the final and she got 8 weeks for carving up the field and ending a horses career. Doesn't add up from this side of the ditch.

[aussiebreno]

Don't watch enough Australian racing to comment on her driving over there but in her short time in Nz last year she drove terribly. Lost 100m at the start with her horse at Ashburton and then she sent him via the cape which completely flattened him for his other runs in Nz. The incident on Sunday was as bad as it gets but the stewards didn't see it like that. Mark Purdon got 10 weeks for shifting ground in the final and she got 8 weeks for carving up the field and ending a horses career. Doesn't add up from this side of the ditch.
Purdon got 10 days not 10 weeks.

[Messenger]

Lauren made an error of judgment yesterday but she's not a dangerous driver.
Like I said in an earlier post, I have not been interested in the Lauren debate in the past, but that statement is ridiculous. A person who makes an error of judgement with a gun, car, sulky .... unless they are lucky to get away with it - they are DANGEROUS

[Messenger]

We are all absolutely devastated.
He is bubbly today after his surgery so just hope he can stay tough and keep away any possible infections.
Anyone who knows the horse knows how kind natured he was and didn't deserve this.

Wishing your camp all the best Shane, the innocent IV deserves a miracle recovery.

[The Escape Club]

Lauren made an error of judgment yesterday but she's not a dangerous driver.

I don't think it was an error in judgement, I think it showed no judgement at all. To make a judgement you need to look around and be aware.

If she's not leading or battling for the lead then she's lost. She doesn't seem to be able to navigate in traffic.

I guess it's something she may learn through hard lessons or it's something she's never going to get.

[ShaneRead]

Thanks for the well wishes.
Its only really just sinking in and were just all hoping his great health and tough personality gets him through. It better.
At no point when we bought him over to have a crack at the best in the inter dominion did we ever think there was a slight chance we may not be able to take him home with us.
The social media is comments are saying enough about what people think about the punishment so ill keep out of that and keep my opinion between our group.
Mouse is a absolute professional and gentleman and manages very well to maintain this in such a dark period.

[Big K]

Just got back home from the Inter's after going over to cheer the WA horses on and to take in the Day and Final..and Im really peeved with what I saw in the final.Please NSW stewards get that girl out of the races and put her in trials and get some bastard over there who knows something about driving and teach her how to drive within the rules,not only will it help her but everybody else around her in the racefields.
Congrtatulations to Beautide and his connections..magnificient allround.Hope everything can go as good as it can be for IV and connections.

[Viv Strangman]

Purdon got 10 days not 10 weeks.

Hi Brendan,
Kids reckon i'm suffering from dementia. They may have a point

[mango]

Lauren made an error of judgment yesterday but she's not a dangerous driver.

Hi Bob

Stewards report from Menangle meeting 22/2

A post race vet exam of Lettucerockthem revealed the horse had sustained a laceration on the near fore hoof and was also found to be lame in the near fore.

[Richard prior]

Your all right Viv but Bob's a worry lol.

[p plater]

Shane, any update on your champs condition?

[aussiebreno]

Shane, any update on your champs condition?
This taken from Lara Brennan facebook page.

Snoop update.. Day 8.. Best news so far. Wound is clean and almost completely healed. They have taken the drain out and he is remarkably sound on both legs which is great as it means no infection in the sheath and no laminitis concerns.. They will keep the antibiotics up for another 48 hours and then look at moving him to the Rehabilitation centre.. Another step closer to him coming home.

[Richard prior]

Great to hear Breno!!

[p plater]

Thanks for that...great news

[Danno]

Will continue to keep our fingers crossed for him.

[ShaneRead]

Shane, any update on your champs condition?

Just recieved a text from Mouse.
Vets very happy with his wound and no signs of infection etc and it has healed quite nicely and not swollen.
Close to being able to be moved to Rehab Clinic (possibly this weekend).
Hes toughed it out and on the mend now by the sounds of it. Rehab then we can get him home.
Very happy.

[Messenger]

Excellent Shane, everybody has been hoping for the best of news for IV and connections.

[Greg Hando]

We had one that severed the main tendon in her hind leg and after it healed she was still able to gallop around o'k, so your horse should be o'k to get around alllright when healed inside and out.