FINAL CUP RANKINGS, FIELD DRAWN WED. OCT 5
The final field for the 2014 edition of the Christchurch Casino New Zealand Trotting Cup has been found, subject to final withdrawals on Wednesday, October 5.
The official last round of rankings has Pass Them By in the final 15th spot in the order of entry _ surpassing Pemberton Shard who will fill the first emergency spot.
However, Pemberton Shard, the half-sister to Smiling Shard, could still make the field.
Champion trainer Mark Purdon, who co-trains with his partner Natalie Rasmussen, said he would recommend to the owners of last year’s Cup runner-up, Fly Like An Eagle, that he be withdrawn following a disappointing run in Monday’s Kaikoura Cup.
Purdon and Rasmussen, in any case, will be represented by Kaikoura Cup winner, Arden Rooney, along with Hands Christian and Adore Me.
Australia will be represented by both For A Reason and Seel N Print, after connections of both horses confirmed they would be making the trip.
The barrier draw for the race will be completed tomorrow morning.
Full fields for harness racing’s biggest event is likely to be available for viewing at www.hrnz.co.nz by lunchtime.
The final field, subject to final withdrawals on Wednesday, October 12 at 11a.m., is:
Adore Me
Arden Rooney
Christen Me
Fly Like An Eagle
For A Reason
Four Starzzz Flash
Franco Ledger
Franco Nelson
Hands Christian
Jimmy Johnstone
Pass Them By
Pembrook Benny
Seel N Print
Terror To Love
Tiger Tara
Emergencies: Pemberton Shard (E1), Lewy Risk (E2).
Courtesy of Candice Van Dyk,
Marketing and Communications Manager,
Harness Racing New Zealand