Trish Dunell
Batman has put his racing career back on track after misbehaving during the New Zealand Cup Carnival.
The Falkirk eight-year-old put on a rodeo display after leaving the barriers during his open sprint assignment on the last day of Cup week. He made contact with Volcano and severely hampered another runner, Dynamic, and continued to buck, losing all chance.
As a result of his antics, Batman had to trial to the satisfaction of a Stipendiary Steward and he did so at the Rangiora trials last Tuesday.
With Krishna Mudhoo taking over from apprentice Kin Kwo, Batman did everything right in his open 1000m heat and won by a half-length.
“I’m not sure where to go now with him,” trainer Neil Ridley said. “It will either be to Cromwell on Sunday or wait until Riccarton the following Friday.
“He trialled well and hopefully it won’t happen again, but it’s not the first time he’s done it. Apparently he did it a few times up north and he had a bit of a go at Ashburton last month.”
Batman attempted to buck passing the 1000 metres in his 1200-metre Ashburton race in which he finished fourth to Flying Ibis, but showed better manners next start in the Gr.3 Stewards Stakes (1200m) at Riccarton.