By Mike Love
Biggles brought up career win number two by winning the Phillips Family Handicap Pace over 2400m at Ashburton on Tuesday.
Geraldine trainer John Murdoch was not surprised by the seven year old Tintin In America gelding’s effort.
“We expected him to go good. But the ten metre handicap was the only worry,” said Murdoch.
Driven by Ricky May, Biggles made a clean beginning from the ten metre handicap, racing handy early. Biggles and May were held up for the majority of the run up the straight before executing a tight gap to burst through and get the money by a head from runner up Fergalicious.
“Ricky’s made him. He’s driven him right through. He’s been patient with him and has taught him how to race.”
Biggles posted an impressive 2:59.8 for the 2400m journey from a stand.
Murdoch currently trains a team of three, with a potential fascination of breeding from Jill Ireland – Biggles mother.
“We’re tempted to go again.”
Biggles is likely to race next at Forbury Park (Oamaru) on January 22nd.
“It’s 2600m with a penalty free win with a junior driver.”
Other highlights on the card included a popular win with the Graeme Telfer trained Barrytown in race eight the Mike Greer Homes mobile trot with Tim Williams driving.
Not winning out of turn, Barrytown recorded his third career victory to go along with his 17 second placings while bringing up Telfer’s 63rd career training success.