Two Jules goes back-to-back at Manawatu

By Jordyn Bublitz 

Taranaki-based trainer Chris Garlick is enjoying a purple patch with his consistent mare Two Jules, who made it back-to-back victories when she won  at Palmerston North on Tuesday. 

The six-year-old daughter of Rock N Roll Heaven produced a determined performance to upset her rivals in the Happy 40th Birthday Richard Sawtell Mobile Pace, paying $46 for the win. 

Driven by Sailesh Abernethy, Two Jules began from barrier 9 on the second row and settled in the running line.

With cover throughout, she was produced three-wide approaching the 400 metre mark and sustained a strong finishing run to claim victory by a nose. It was a determined effort, particularly given the extra work required in the closing stages, and underlined the mare’s current form.

Garlick admitted he had some reservations stepping her up in grade but was confident she would be competitive if circumstances played out in her favour.

“I knew it was a big step up for her compared to her recent racing, but I thought if the race was run to suit with a bit of tempo she’d be getting home alright.”

That faith has been rewarded, with Monday’s success bringing up the mare’s fifth career win and confirming her consistency in recent starts.

“She’s a lovely mare, just perfect for me. Great to do anything with and hasn’t ever given me any trouble.”

Just as pleasing for Garlick was how well Two Jules has come through her latest effort.

“She seems to have pulled up really good, I wouldn’t have had any troubles backing her up.”

With confidence high, attention now turns north. Garlick is eyeing up a mares’ race at Alexandra Park next Friday, a step up again but one he is keen to take on for more than one reason.

“I’m thinking of taking her to Auckland, I know it’s going to be a big ask, and there’s going to be some horses in there that are better than her. I thought we might as well take her up there and see how we go, I’ll take the whole whanau up and make it a weekend away so we can catch up with a few old friends too!”

“When I was trying to convince my wife to let me get another horse, part of my sell to her was that it could be a chance to get away for a few weekends,” he laughed.