By Mike Love
Regular beach training has been one of the keys to turning around Sharma Trouble , the winner of the Rakaia Seed Cleaning Trot at Methven yesterday.
Trained by Nigel Chalmers at Waikouaiti trainer Nigel Chalmers, it was the six-year-old Superfast Stuart gelding’s first win nine starts.
“It looked like he jogged that. I think the penny may have dropped with him, I think he’s quite promising.” said Chalmers.
Sharma Trouble, driven by Sam Thornley, began quickly to lead early before settling three back the markers. The gaps presented themselves up the long Methven straight for Sharma Trouble to burst through and speed away to win by two lengths from Castleisland and Rosary.
“I have been taking him over to the beach everyday the last couple of weeks and he’s just been getting better and better.”
Sharma Trouble was formerly with Methven trainer Michael Heenan before Chalmers saw the gelding up for sale.
“I called Michael and asked to lease it, which he agreed to. He told me he works really well and that if I could get him right he’d win some races.”
“He’s had a few issues along the way – back issues, foot issues, muscled issues – the works. So it’s been a very satisfying win because of the work that’s gone into him.”
There are seven people involved in the lease – including Chalmers’ father Graeme Chalmers who trained 19 winners himself.
“Dad’s in it, with a couple of friends, my sister and a few others so it’s really cool for them.”
Chalmers has now trained 21 winners, and trains one other horse in addition to Sharma Trouble.
“Annrose is a horse with ability – she will go to the trials on Wednesday to hopefully qualify. She’s one to follow in the future.”