Debbie Healey booked to ride Shannon

Press, 20 February 1987, Page 21

Debbie Healey booked to ride Shannon

Special correspondent Palmerston North The Takanini jockey, Debbie Healey, has been engaged to ride Shannon in the $175,000 Air New Zealand Stakes at the Auckland Racing Club's meeting at Ellerslie, tomorrow.

The Woodville grey’s usual rider, David Walsh, is committed to Lomondy in the race. Shannon worked soundly yesterday morning at Woodville in his final trial. Fast work took

place five metres out on the course proper, which was easy.

Shannon and The Jug galloped 1200 metres in 1:18, the last 600 m in 39. Shannon was a shade disappointing in the Cambridge Stud International Stakes at Te Rapa, but was not too far away and is worth another chance on Saturday.

Waikato winner, The Jug, is an acceptor for the Napier Hotel Handicap at Hastings and should start one of the favourites.

Woodville is also represented by impressive firstday winner, Palliser, in the event, but no decision has been made about a start for him.

Hassendean accompanies Shannon north, and runs in the Koru Handicap. He worked with Emelda over 1000 m in 1:6.5, the last 600 m in 39.45. Hassendean, which went boldly when resuming at Wairoa, will be ridden by Karen Blair, currently working for the Marsh stable.