The New Zealand Herald

Middle distance no issue but weight may be in cup

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Lady Guinness’ last-start effort provided trainer and part-owner Patrick Campbell with proof that she has a bright future in a staying role.

The Falkirk mare finished fourth over 2100m on her home track at Hastings earlier this month in her first outing beyond a mile.

“The only question mark was how she would go over ground and as far as I’m concerned she ticked that box,” Campbell said. “I thought it was a super run.”

Lady Guinness will now take aim at today’s Waipukurau Cup (2100m) with Campbell’s main concern the 58.5kg she will have to shoulder.

“I did have Holly Andrew to ride her and claim, but she’s injured so Lisa Allpress will be on, and the weight makes it a bit more difficult,” he said.

“There’s a few go forward horses in the race so as long as Lady Guinness doesn’t get taken on in front, or she can take a nice sit, I’m sure she’ll run well again.”

Andrew’s misfortune — she is sidelined after a fall at Trentham last Saturday — has presented Allpress with winning prospects on her return from shoulder injuries suffered in a fall at the Hawera jump-outs in Octo- ber. Among Lady Guinness’ in-form rivals is the Fraser Auret-trained Missy Moo, who has a win and three placings from her last four starts.

“She’s quite a progressiv­e middle distance mare,” he said.

“She’s still learning to settle in her races, she’s going a touch keenly for my liking, but she certainly looks a good chance in the cup.”

— NZ Racing Desk ICE HOCKEY

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