Carlin goes two in a row

By Mike Love 

Carlin went back to back at Ashburton yesterday when taking out the Robilliards Jewellers Pace.

Driven by Sheree Tomlinson, Carlin bobbled away but quickly hit his stride soon after. Tomlinson and Carlin then received an economical run, sitting one out, three back on the outside. Tomlinson then unleashed the three-year-old Art Major gelding, picking them up in the twinkling of an eye to put them away, winning by two and a half lengths from runner-up Sans Repo.

Carlin has now won two from 11 starts.

"He's got a lot of high speed. I'm pleased that he's matured a bit. He's strengthened up too," said trainer Bruce Negus.

"Sheree was really happy with him. She said when she pulled the hood, he was off.

"I'm not sure how far he will go, but horses win races when they've got speed. He does try. Time will be his friend."

Carlin continues to go in the right direction for Negus, having strengthened up over time.

"He'll have a few days off now, and we will keep to standing starts where possible because he's a naturally good beginner.

"He will probably go to Ashburton again in three weeks' time."

Carlin was purchased after being passed in at the sales.

"John (Owens) bought him and Irish Dream, who were both passed in at the sales. They've both turned out alright."

Irish Dream has won two from just seven starts and is trained by Colin and Julie DeFilippi.

"Very likeable little horse, he's very willing and tries hard. He might not be up to the top ones, but in a couple of years' time he could be a competitive free-for-all type of horse.

"We just want to build up his confidence and stay away from the good three-year-olds. But he will get his chance at the Kaikoura meeting and a race during cup week."

Other highlights on the programme included John Morrison gaining his 400th success when he drove, and trained, Heaven's Mark to victory in the Viable Agriculture Mobile Pace.