Time For Victory Olivia Thornley's best at Ashburton

By Mike Love 

Time For Victory headlines Olivia Thornley's solid book of five drives at today’s Ashburton meeting. 

The Michael Ward-trained five-year-old is coming in fourth up this campaign and seems to be building nicely for a maiden victory after a few placings and close-up finishes.  

He's currently a $2.30 favourite in Race 2, The Trudgeon Painters Trot (12.10pm), over 2400m.

“He was lacking confidence last preparation, and this time in we’ve been gaining confidence,” said Thornley.

“With his good manners he should be close to winning in a smaller field.”

Thornley and Ward combine again later in the programme in Race 7, the Fowler Homes Ashburton Mobile Pace (2.43pm), over 2400m, with Rovert Decision ($8.50FF). The five-year-old Gold Ace mare hasn’t really done anything wrong since breaking her maiden six starts ago. 

“Last start didn't suit her, sitting parked, but she never gave it away.

“It’s been a few weeks between runs, but she tries her heart out - she’ll give her all.”

Thornley combines with two Michael House-trained runners - Miss Woodville and Doctor Tim.

The first of those lines up in Race 3, the Garth Jemmett Construction Ltd Mobile Pace (12.44pm), over 2400m, with long-time maiden Miss Woodville ($14.00FF). At start 59, could today be the day?

“You can’t discredit her. She’s definitely an each-way chance if she gets a bit of luck.” 

While in Race 5, the Gary McCormick Transport Ltd Pace (1.34pm), over 2400m, Doctor Tim ($11.00FF) and Thornley combine.

“He likes the speed on and being saved for the one run, and he’s always flashing home when the others are getting tired.”

Thornley’s other drive comes in Race 6, the We’ve Got The Trots Syndicate Mobile Trot (2.04pm) over 1700m, with the Regan Todd-trained Valyrian ($5.00FF). After building some nice form, things have not gone right in the last couple of runs for Thornley and the five-year-old Volstead gelding.

“He had some excuses in those last two runs,” explains Thornley.

“Two starts ago he was hitting the wheels on the sulky, then on Wednesday he lost a shoe in the preliminary and even though it was put back on, he just didn’t want to trot.”

“If he  goes on previous form, he’s definitely a good chance.”

Race 1 is set to get underway at 11.45am.

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