Todd-trained trio for Rising Stars

By Dave Di Somma, Harness News Desk  

With less than two weeks to go before the opening heat, Regan Todd's got his sights firmly fixed on the new Rising Stars at Addington.

After a lengthy absence, the series is making a comeback with two $15,000 heats on Friday, July 31 and Friday, August 14 before a $30,000 final a week later (August 21).

The series is for up to two win 3YO Pacing Colts and Geldings.

Todd has three contenders, all two race winners, in Franco Lomu (Bettor's Delight), Stumblin In (Always B Miki) and Reimburst (Art Major).

"Stumblin In has raced at the top level and is just below the top tier and Franco Lomu is not far behind him," says Todd.

"And the other fella (Reimburst) has been a bit of a surprise package."

"All three of them are pretty laid back nice horses."

Franco Lomu won at Addington last month while Stumblin In hasn't raced since a third behind Freeze Frame at Ashburton in May and Reimburst's had a spell since his last start win on the grass at Motukarara in April.

Todd expects the trio will all have at least one trial before they head to their respective heats. The first four home in each heat is guaranteed a place in the final.

Todd is also considering a tilt at the big three-year-old features including the Derby later in the year.

"Jumal is clearly a stand out and the rest of them are looking for a bit of luck."

"That would be a target for them, especially the first two (Stumblin In and Franco Lomu) and Reimburst would have to step up a bit."

The Rising Stars was last raced for in the 1980 - 2000s.

"We are looking forward to bringing back the series. It's been won by some great horses in the past including Courage Under Fire and Christian Cullen," says Addington's Racing and Property Manager John Denton.

"The series will attract some promising pacers in its own right and it also serves as an important  pathway to the 3YO Classics that start in September."

The first of those age group features, the Ian Dobson Memorial - Johnny Globe Classic, will be held at Addington on Friday, September 4.