HEATHER CASTLETON KEEPS RUN GOING
Burnham trainer Mark Jones racked up his 20th training win for the season when 3YO trot filly Heather Castleton delivered second-up for the stable in the Monarchy Handicap Trot at the Timaru Harness Racing Club’s meeting at Addington on Thursday, December 16.
After again showing good manners to lead early then trail, the Sundon filly moved out to challenge turning for home and had to fight after being challenged by Dragon’s Den early in the run home.
“She was headed at the top of the straight and was quite game,” Mark said.
“Peter Chambers bought her as a broodmare really. She’s a NZ record holder (2YO filly, 1700m, 2:10.2) and is well-bred.”
“It will be a step up against the top 3YO fillies for her but she’s got a good attitude.”
Heather Castleton, who raced last season for Dunedin trainer Alan Clark, trotted the 2600m from a stand at Addington in 3:26.5, coming clear at the finish by three-quarters of a length.
Fellow 3YO filly Top Notch Lyn, who finished fast to defeat Heather Castleton at Forbury on November 25, finished on for third on Thursday, without threatening the Jones runner on this occasion.
Mark advanced to 28 driving wins with Thursday’s success.