Race Images Palmerston North
Chris Bothwell is chasing his first winner as a solo trainer, but will leave the decision on whether he has a chance to open his account at New Plymouth on Thursday to race morning.
The Stratford horseman has Bloomsbury in the Seaton Park Maiden and her participation will depend on track conditions.
“There’s supposed to be a lot more rain coming so I’ll wait before deciding on a start,” Bothwell said.
A four-year-old, Bloomsbury has placed at the trials and has required patient handling.
“She’s had a few little niggles along the way and being by Tavistock we haven’t panicked, they can need some time,” said Bothwell, whose only other runner under his own name has been Gordys Gesture.
He previously enjoyed a successful partnership with his father Dick, who recently announced his retirement after a 40-year plus career. He rated Summer Haze and Silver Chalice as his two best horses.
Summer Haze was the champion two-year-old of her year after wins in the Gr.1 Manawatu Sires’ Produce Stakes and the Gr.2 Matamata Breeders’ Stakes. She also finished runner-up the following season in the Gr.1 New Zealand Oaks.
Silver Chalice was the winner of the Gr.1 Thorndon Mile and she also claimed a victory in the Gr.2 Hawke’s Bay Gold Cup. – NZ Racing Desk.