By Joshua Smith, Harness News Desk
One Change was a spent force at the conclusion of racing at Addington Raceway last week but has recuperated well according to trainer Amber Hoffman and will back-up at the Christchurch track on Thursday.
The six-year-old gelding was forced to do a power of work when pushed three-wide when improving at the bell. He faded in the final 500m and Hoffman was surprised with how well he came though the tough run.
“He has come through the run surprisingly well. We are quite happy with him,” she said.
“We thought he might be a bit tired after that trip but Blair (Orange, driver) looked after him in the end.
“He was just gutted that he got pushed out when he did and got stuck in no man’s land after that.”
Hoffman has utilised the beach at her Waikouaiti stable and has given One Change a quiet week in the lead-up to the Alabar Free-For-All Mobile Pace (2600m).
“We are really happy with him, he is bouncing out of his skin,” she said.
“He spent the weekend out in the surf, walking out in the water up to his stomach. That just freshened him right up.
“The surf is just like a giant water-walker, we take advantage of it.
“He hasn’t done much this week. He is pretty fit so he didn’t need to do a lot.”
One Change had been in consistent form prior to his last start run and TAB bookmakers have duly installed him a $3.50 equal favourite alongside Mighty Looee.
“I would say Blair will pull him back and save him for one run at them. As long as he is running on and he is there at the finish with the others, I will be happy with him,” Hoffman said.
Hoffman hasn’t got any set plans for One Change following Thursday’s outing and will let the son of Bettor’s Delight dictate when he is ready for a break.
“He is due a letup shortly but we will just get through Thursday night and make a plan from there,” she said.
“He is not disgracing himself, so as long as he stays happy and sound we will carry on with him.”
