Talented harness racing colt Spare Me Days heads to Queensland with unfinished business.
Most expected the Brad Hewitt prepared three-year-old to play a major hand in the Gr.1 Breeders Challenge final at TABCORP Park, Menangle last weekend but history tells another story.
He didn’t qualify for the rich final after a below par effort in the semi-final on June 20.
“Things didn’t go plan with the Breeders Challenge but we had excuses and he pulled up a little worse for wear and he was quite crook."
"We had the vet go over him and he’s bounced back very well and now the Queensland winter carnival is a perfect opportunity to redeem himself.” Hewitt said.
Spare Me Days was the biggest winner following the barrier draw and starts from the inside gate in the 1660m sprint feature leaving Hewitt with several options.
The Ifihadyourluck colt possesses enough early speed to hold a forward position while talented types Burnaholeinmypocket and Hug The Wind are expected to push forward and challenge for the lead role.
“Landing the ace takes all the guess work out of the equation; drawing well in these feature sprint races is crucial and I’m relieved that we came up with a good draw"
"He’s been a big improver this season with his gate speed and I’m confident he’s got enough to hold up early."
“I’ve got options and I haven’t decided on what the best plan of attack is for this race and I’ll keep doing more form to work out what the best plan is for this race."
"It’s a good quality race which boasts several talented types."
“I’ve been really impressed with the way he’s recovered since his latest effort and his work has been better than ever, he’s really good at the moment and I’m expecting a forward showing.”
Hewitt is non-committal at this stage on whether he will back-up next week on tackle the Gr.3 $40,000 Mr Feelgood Gold Coast Derby or wait a week for the Gr.1 $150,000 Queensland Derby which is scheduled for July 18.
“We’ll let this horse determine whether we start in all three feature races, let’s just get through this week first before making any firm plans."
"He’s off to the paddock after this campaign for a well-earned break and I’m expecting him to improve again next season as a four-year-old because he’s not a big colt."
“I’m happy to head back to Brisbane for the winter carnival this year because we had a great time last year; the prizemoney, the people and the weather is awesome so here’s hoping.”
Chris Barsby