All to race for in title decider
IT will be a family affair of sorts at Gold Coast’s final meet of the season today as Helen Page squares off with John Morrisey for the trainers premiership.
Two-time winner Page enters the eight-race card armed with five runners – three more than Morrisey – while also holding a one-win ladder lead over her rival.
While in direct competition for the mantle, Page admits the bonds forged over early starts and long hours make today worth celebrating – regardless of the victor.
“I’ve kept an eye on (the ladder) but we don’t worry much about it,” she said.
“(John and I) work together every morning and it’s like a family; you see each other more than your family.”
Page concedes her lead has been somewhat of a shock given the smaller output of her stable, but understands the impact of such a title can deliver.
“It’s not something you set off to do but some things just fall in to place,” she said.
“I’ve had a very quiet period and have had a lot of hors- es in the paddock at times.
“But we have noticed (the premiership race) is close and it would be terrific (to win) because it gives your stable a boost and the staff get something out of their efforts.”
Page is honest yet buoyed by today’s gallopers, pinpointing Powerful Flash – boosted by apprentice Corey Bayliss’s weight claim – as a strong chance in the $16,000 Valuers Classic (900m).
“I have a few nice horses but I know that none of them are champions,” she said.
“Powerful Flash is a very good up-and-coming horse but it’s a matter of whether the race is too short.”