Strong trotting contingent for South Auckland barn

By Joshua Smith, Harness News Desk

Trainers Michelle Wallis and Bernie Hackett will once again have a strong contingent of trotters at Alexandra Park on Friday night.

The husband-and-wife duo will have a three-pronged attack in the Primor Produce Hanidcap Trot (2700m), including Special Way, Invictus, and Kings Landing.

Invictus heads into the race after a last start victory and his trainers expect another honest showing from their charge, while they believe Special Way is their leading chance if he can make it to the front.

“Invictus’ pet distance is 2200m and it is 2700m this week,” Wallis said.

“He always runs home, he is an honest little fella and always gives it his best shot.

“Kings Landing trialled really well last week, but it is his first run back though so he could be a bit vulnerable being fresh.

“Special Way loves the front and if he can find the front he will be hard to bowl.”

The Waiuku couple will also have three representatives in the Blackmore Virtue & Owens Handicap Trot (2700m), including Aldebaran Flame, Emma Frost, and Aldebaran Keepa.

“Aldebaran Flame has been working well and hopefully she can step and lead. I would love to see her in front, it could be up her alley to be in front,” Wallis said.

“It’s a bit of a drop back in class for Emma Frost, she is always running on. If she gets the right run, she won’t be far away.

“It’s also a drop back in class for Aldebaran Keepa. She has run fourth in the Oaks, third in the Sires’ Stakes, and fifth in the Derby.

“My only concern is that she hasn’t had a stand for a long time, but she is pretty sensible. Provided she steps, she will lob the 2700m.

“She is probably the best of the three of them.”

Later on the card Wallis is hoping Nelson’s Boy and improve on his last two runner-up results, while Drum N Bass will make his debut for the stable after an 11-month absence from racing.

“Nelson’s boy has just jumped out of his skin and has been thriving on the beach,” Wallis said.

“I think the right-handed way of racing has suited him too, he is loving going to Auckland.

“Drum N Bass won a trial last week but they didn’t go much time. I do expect a good showing, but it is never easy off 30m. You are chasing the whole way and we are still learning a bit about him too.

“We will see how he goes and we will take it from there.”