News Briefs - May 19

Top mare out of Jewels

Watch Me Now is the latest high profile horse to withdrawn from the Harness Jewels. The winner of seven from 17 has been pulled out of the 4YO Diamond after failing to replicate the form that saw her beat Amazing Dream in February’s Breeders Stakes at Addington. Other withdrawals include Special Way and Miss Crazed in the 4YO Ruby and Franco Indie in the 2YO Emerald.

Chase Auckland to get scan

Chase Auckland will undergo a scan after having issues following his fresh up run at Addington last Friday night. The winner of 14 from 35 finished second in his comeback race, his first since fracturing a hock in February last year. But he was not comfortable post-race and will now have a bone scan to determine the extent of his injury.

Getting Jazzy with It

Former high class Kiwi Jazzy Star will debut for the all-powerful Team McCarthy at Menangle on Saturday night. After seven wins with Ashburton trainer Brent White the son of Auckland Reactor moved to Australia in January, and and then ran two seconds for Tim Butt.

Cullen hits 100… and more

On Thursday American Pride won at Alexandra Park to give Hayden Cullen his 100th training success. How did he celebrate? By winning five on Addington’s Premier meeting the very next night with Akuta, Bettor Twist, Regal Attire, Samhara and Shan Noble.

The champ is back

Champion mare Manchego has made a winning six-year-old debut for Kiwi driver Dexter Dunn. Paying $11 for the win she sat parked before winning in a blanket finish at the Meadowlands in New Jersey. It was win number 34 and took her earnings to nearly $3m.

Club News : Invercargill

The Rex McGregor and Janice Purchase SSBA Mobile Pace for 3YO Fillies and Mares and the Ryal Bush Handicap Trot, both with a stake of $10,000, will be the feature races at the Invercargill Harness Racing Club’s meeting at Ascot park this Saturday. First race is at 11.43am and admission to the course is free.