Interest in Simon David at Blenheim today

Press, 22 June 1985, Page 27

Interest in Simon David at Blenheim today

By

G. K. YULE

Simon David, a member of John Hay’s Ashburton team, will be the centre of much interest when he contests the E. J. Wilson Memorial Pace, the final leg of the T.A.B. treble on the first day of the Marlborough Trotting Club’s winter meeting at Waterlea today. Simon David created a big impression when he made his race debut at Rangiora a fortnight ago. He settled at the tail of the field and was inclined to race fiercely until Hay al-

lowed him to loop the field after about 800 m and he took control and 1200 m left. From then on he did not look like being tested and he won with something in hand in the respectable time of 2min 52.5 s for the mobile 2200 m.

Simon David is not a foolproof pacer, but there is no doubt about his great ability. He has drawn fairly wide, but he could come in to No. 6 or No. 7. His task will not be easy, but he looks to have the talents to continue on his winning way. Garry’s Last, a newcomer

to the circuit, has not raced since he finished gamely for second to the speedy Amoeba at Ashburton on June 3. He will probably have to start from the second line, which has not proved too difficult in the past. Magic Dragon raced to good purpose for placings at Nelson. The Tiger Wave four-year-old has drawn No. 2 at the barrier and he looks to be in the form which should land him in the thick of the finish.

Stoner Creek, Chancey Jack, Chantilly Scott and Golden Mann are others

entitled to respect. Tenner Reef, Marmbro and Noble Report could be as good as any in the first leg, the Pinedale Motor Camp Pace, while Earl Evander, Gamalee and Delacouri could do best in the middle leg, the E. M. O’Malley Memorial. Mendlespride, which shares the back mark of 60m with the double Nelson winner, Game Traveller, will also have to be considered in the middle leg. She made two bold showings against the pacers at Nelson and this race should be easier for her.