By Mike Love
Trainer Paul Nairn produced an impressive winner at Addington Raceway on Friday night and will looking for more of the same with two strongly-supported runners at Rangiora today.
The “Master” will slip on the silks to drive Wypout ($3.30FF) in Race 4, the Remembering John Russell – A Veteran Member Trot and High Noon ($3.50FF) in Race 10, the Rangiora HRC Thanks Country Feasts Trot. Both are currently second favourites.
Nairn was successful at Addington with Forgiveness, driven by Bob Butt. Despite doing all of the donkey work, Forgiveness went on to win stylishly in what was the best possible start to her new campaign.
“I’m really happy with her. She went very well. The tough run didn’t worry her.”
“We will now aim for the good mares race at Oamaru (September 15) – the Jasmyn’s Gift – that will possibly be her next start,” said Nairn.
Like Forgiveness, Wypout is fresh up today – the three-year-old Father Patrick filly lining up without any public appearances since last being seen at listed level in November last year.
“I just felt like she needed to strengthen up a bit which is why she’s had a bit of time off.”
“Her manners are generally good and she’s a good gaited filly. She should compete well enough.”
“Hopefully there’s a bit of natural improvement with her with a bit of racing going forward.”
At the other end of the spectrum in Race 10 High Noon is well into his campaign and looking for career win number two at start 32. Recent performances suggest that the four-year-old Majestic Son gelding is not far from posting that win.
“He seems good. He has come through last week’s race well with no problems. I’d like to think he will go another good race.”
Nairn currently trains a team 14 from his Leeston base and has trained 415 winners to date, while driving 135.