Backburn looking to go back-to-back

By Joshua Smith, Harness News Desk

Backburn was rewarded for his consistency when winning his maiden at Addington Raceway last week and trainer Katie Cox is hoping for a repeat performance at the Christchurch track on Sunday.

The four-year-old son of Sir Lincoln had placed in four of his previous five outings and Cox was thrilled he was finally able to get his maiden victory.

“He deserved it, he had been going good races and it was good that he could hold off the other one,” Cox said.

“He seems to have pulled up alright, it will just be up to how he handles the step up in grade on Sunday.

“I don’t think it will worry him too much. He is one of those ones that only does what he has to do in a race, hopefully he will step-up and at least he has had a bit of education in that maiden grade.

“He seems well, so I am looking forward to Sunday.”

Cox will also hop in the cart behind the Philippa Wakelin and Stephen Noble-trained Musclynn.

The four-year-old mare has been dual-accepted for the Silvermoon Jewellers Ladies’ Night – 8 July Handicap Trot (2600m) and Dakins Group Trot (2000m), with a decision being made closer to the time as to which race she contests.

Cox will be filling in for Wakelin, who is out through suspension.

“She looks like he has been racing well,” Cox said.

“Pip asked me if I could drive the horse as she is out at the moment.”