Surprise win for trainer

IT was a bittersweet result for trainer Graeme McCulloch when his six-year-old Kool Kash ($5.50) led throughout to win a class four handicap in Devonport last Sunday.

McCulloch also had Windrider ($11) engaged and despite that horse being the outsider of the two, the astute mentor believed he would emerge triumphant.

But while Kool Kash was refusing to wilt in the home straight after setting a solid tempo, Windrider was languishing near the rear and made little impression at the business end of the race.

“Kool Kash likes the Devonport track and on his best form he was well suited but his most recent form had been well below par, while Windrider had been working extra well, which is why I thought he could win,” McCulloch said.

“Sometimes you get it wrong and I’m sure this won’t be the last time.”

McCulloch remains hopeful that Windrider can find his best form and win again. POPULAR thoroughbred trainer Teagan Keys is likely to be an absentee from the thoroughbred meeting in Hobart on Sunday.

Keys gave birth to her second child with premier trainer Scott Brunton on Monday morning – a baby brother for Charlie.

Archie Richard arrived safe and sound at 9.30am and Brunton said there were no complications.

“We had to rush Teagan to hospital for an emergency caesarean section early yesterday morning but all went well and both she and the baby are doing fine,” Brunton said.