Connor returns to centre court

Ohoka Connor, (Sunshine Beach) the forgotten horse in the chat about the New Zealand Derby, will step back onto Addington Raceway tomorrow night hoping to keep his unbeaten harness racing record in place.

“He’s definitely filled out. He’s a lot stronger and I still think he’ll get stronger with another six to eight months. He’s still quite a big baby and races a touch green to be honest, but his raw ability is unquestionable,” co-trainer Steve Telfer said.

Purchased out of Southland as a two year old after being developed by Brett Gray, the giant pacer then went on a six run winning streak for his new trainers Steve and Amanda Telfer, culminating in the Group Two Alabar Southern Supremacy Stakes in April.

He was then put aside to develop into his large frame and since returning to work he’s had two trials, winning both.

“He’s had a very good grounding and everything has gone well. But there will be a bit of improvement in him. He’s as ready as we can be without going to the races.”

On Friday night Ohoka Connor faces his biggest test yet, fronting up against a mixture of tough middle grade horses and some high end three year olds like Who’s Delight (Bettor’s Delight) and Franco Sinatra (Captaintreacherous).

To make his task even more difficult he’s drawn the outside of the front row.

“It’s a very strong field. Tim’s (driver Tim Williams) going to have to see what happens early and then he’ll be driven from there. There’s no real plan. We just have to see how the race unfolds. I’m sure Tim won’t be frightened to put him in the race if it pans out that way. He’s a very relaxed horse and that was one of his attributes last time in. He seems to be the same this campaign as well.”

Although Ohoka Connor hasn’t shown too much high speed in the six races he’s won, Telfer says it’s there.

“He is very quick. In a few of his races he’s been on the pace and done as much as he’s had to. He hasn’t had to use his speed.”

And the 2600 metres journey fresh up should suit?

“First up it’s not ideal after a long break but it’s a distance that doesn’t hold any fears for him. He’s a quality stayer.”

Telfer says after Friday’s pipe opener there’s a rating race for Ohoka Connor on Show Day then on the 1 of December The Ian Dobson Memorial Christian Cullen Classic for three year olds. The Group One New Zealand Derby is nine days later on Grand Prix Day at Addington.

“There’s good depth in the three year olds. That race on the 13 October is a good example of it. Merlin (Art Major) and Don’t Stop Dreaming (Bettor’s Delight) have been the top two throughout, but I think some of the other horses have really stepped up and narrowed the gap. I think it’s a pretty quality lot of three year olds this year.”

Telfer said he’s looking forward to Ohoka Connor’s campaign in the next two months.

“He’s got great potential and we look forward to seeing how he matches up.”

by Bruce Stewart, for Harnesslink