APPRENTICE’S TREBLE STEALS SHOW AT MEET
RACING: He’s the son of a gun that is making a name in his own right.
Apprentice rider Zac Lloyd had a memorable welcome to Clifford Park on Saturday night, riding three winners in his first meeting in Toowoomba.
The 18-year-old is a son of former champion rider Jeff, who now serves as a manager to both Zac and brother Jaden.
His night started with a patient steer aboard Shotgun Sonny ($2.45 fav) for Mark Currie, claiming the Shane Pratt Painting Class 2 Handicap (1210m) by 1 ¼ lengths.
He then finished off the night in style, riding the last two winners in Rippin’ Ready (Jackie Crompton) and Sine Curve (Terry Hall).
Jeff said he is proud of the way both his boys are riding, as they continue to make their way through the grades.
“Both boys are doing very well and I’m happy with the way they’re going,” he said.
“Jaden has taken the step with his first season in town and Zac is the same in the provincials.
“He went there (Toowoomba) because there was no Gold Coast meeting, He enjoyed it and had some success.
“Zac got home just after midnight and we went through his rides. He takes it very seriously.”
On a night for favourite backers, a number of well-supported locals were able to salute.
It started with Count The Coin ($2.70) for the Kevin Kemp and Skye Bogenhuber combination, who finished off too strong in the opener.
The well-named Pucko ($2.40) for trainer Bradley Puckeridge and apprentice Montanna Savva got the job done narrowly in the fourth, before the win of the night.
Hail To The Chief ($2.05) had been knocking on the door for Michael Nolan, and a quality steer from Michael Hellyer saw him blitz rivals to the tune of 3 ½ lengths to break his maiden.