Biggles one of many chances in Timaru Winter Cup

By Mike Love 

A very even line-up of R41-R55 pacers will go to battle in today’s $20,000 Canterbury Environmental Solutions Winter Cup (2.45pm) at Timaru.

Making the 30 kilometer trip from Geraldine to Phar Lap Raceway is the John Murdoch-trained Biggles. The eight-year-old Tintin In America gelding is fourth up this campaign, with his first three runs this time in having been very pleasing. 

“He’s coming to it,” said Murdoch. 

“We’re hoping, but we are realistic about it because there are some nice horses in the race.”

Biggles has had two placings from two attempts on the course, while having two wins and three placings at the distance, and is usually a safe prospect from the standing start. 

“He’s still on the way up, so if he’s fit enough the 2600m will suit him. After his last run you’d think he won’t be far away. He came through it well.”

That form, running second to Captain Cool over a week ago, was franked again on Friday night with Captain Cool winning again. 

“He’s never really run a bad race, he’s always been there at the finish.

“If he brings his ‘A’ game he’ll be amongst them.”

Current favourite is the Steve and Amanda Telfer trained Transonic ($2.70FF), who has not raced since January when winning at Cromwell on the grass, but did perform well in a recent trial at Ashburton on May 12. 

The Telfers won this race last year with the talented Bar Louie who was also in a fresh state at the time. Tim Williams will drive.

Other chances in the event include the Warren Stapleton backmarkers off 20 metres, Next Level ($14.00FF), driven by Kimberly Butt, and Lester ($7.00FF) with John Morrison, while joining them off 20 metres is Shepherds Delight ($7.00FF), and Blair Orange for trainer Ivan Court. 

Foliejon Star ($11.00FF), for Ken Ford and Amanda Tomlinson, looks set for an economical run off the front mark with driver Sheree Tomlinson, and Better Be Sharp ($13.00FF), who can make a fast beginning from the tapes, may also land on the speed with Sarah O’Reilly for trainer and father, Gerard. 

Ricky May will drive Biggles among his massive book of 10 drives for the day, with the majority offering excellent value for punters.

To see the Winter Cup field click here 

Murdoch also lines up Rondo Trouble ($31.00FF) in Race 1, the Brosnan Transport Passing Lane Trot (11.06am), with Robbie Holmes engaged. 

“He’s pretty ordinary, so would need a lot of luck.”

Note: The FF (Fixed Field) odds can fluctuate, so check at tab.co.nz for the latest information.