A maiden no more at start No 52

By Dave Di Somma, Harness News Desk 

Going into yesterday's races at Timaru, trainer David McKenzie had modest ambitions with his trotter Inquizitive Man.

"I thought if he finished top four he'd be going alright."

The fact that the eight-year-old gelding broke through for his maiden success, at start number 52, was an absolute bonus.

"I was quite thrilled."

Family commitments meant McKenzie couldn't make it on track to see the win in person.

"I was cheering him home alright," he says.

Driven by Sam Thornley, Inquizitive Man made the lead in the Equine Veterinary Services Trot, only to get the perfect run in the trail behind Which Way before taking the passing lane and going on to win by three lengths.

"He doesn't have high end speed but manners take you a long way in races like this," said McKenzie.

With Inquizitive Man trotting safely throughout the same couldn't be said for favourite Calmbeforethestorm who galloped out of contention.

"When he went I thought maybe I'm a chance here," said McKenzie.

Now in his mid 70s, McKenzie is a retired brick and block-layer. Horses are a sideline for him - he co-bred and owns Inquizitive Man and trains a small team at his property in Sefton. He then heads off to his good mate Robbie Holmes' place for any fast work.

With McKenzie unavailable it was Holmes who looked after the horse yesterday. 

"I'll be putting smoko on for the staff there after that win," he laughs. 

It was McKenzie's second training success, his first being with Thats Bettor at Rangiora in 2016.