BALLINA: Locals Get On A Sure Thing
Story By Tony White
Friday, 17 October 2008: The pair were chuffed after heavily backed Surety breezed home with the Bangalow Cup last start at Ballina.
On Sunday at the same track Surety will be out to further recoup expenses when the five-year-old gelding lines up in the $10,000 Lennox Head Cup (1400m) at the same venue.
Lee purchased Surety from Melbourne trainer Robbie Griffiths specifically with the Bangalow Cup in mind, a race which Nash, who comes from the township, has been instrumental in organising.
“Greg was pretty keen to win the Bangalow Cup and luckily we found the right horse and were able to win it,” Lee said.
“It's always nice when a plan comes together.”
Lee said the gelding had continued to progress since his win on October 6.
“He's a good doer and has had a couple of good workouts since last start,” he said.
“I had him in at Brisbane but Greg wanted to run at home.
“It looks a stronger race but I'm happy with Surety. He's been placed over 1400 metres and 1600 metres at Moonee Valley. The trip won't be a problem.
“He's a horse we're going to have some fun with.”
Lee's star apprentice Joshua Jones retains the Surety ride.
The topweight Instructed is expected to start in Brisbane on Saturday, leaving trainer Danny Bowen to sasdle up stablmates Alto Adige (Jasen Watkins) and Cedar Manor (Darron Coleman) in the Lennox had Cup.
Grafton trainer John Shelton feels the distance of 1400m may be shade short for his runner Innocenttassie (Adam Hyeronimus).
“I think he's looking for more ground now he's getting older,” Shelton said.
“He's been a bit slower coming up this time and not quiet right yet.”
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