OWNING racehorses can be a nerve wracking experience – just ask Warrnambool Racing Club chairman Nick Rule.
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Rule races champion jumper Wells with a group of friends including Federal Member for Wannon Dan Tehan.
The eleven-year-old Wells is attempting to win a record breaking fourth Grand National Steeplechase at Ballarat on Sunday.
“I’ll be a bit nervous before the Grand National,” Rule said. “Wells has given me my biggest thrills in racing winning three Grand Nationals and I’m hoping he will make it four on Sunday. “He’s been a wonderful horse for us but full credit must be given to Craig and Kathryn Durden. They have done a remarkable job with Wells. They treat him like one of the family.”
One of Wells main dangers in the 4500-metre race is the Warrnambool trained I’ll’ava’alf, also part-owned by Rule.
“We’ve had a lot of fun with I’ll’ava’alf” he said.
“He won well last time at Warrnambool but he faces a tough task against Wells. The weight assistance should suit I’ll’ava’alf.
“I’ll’ava’alf is an honest performer who seems to run his best at Warrnambool. It looks a hard race on paper as Sea King, Monarch Chimes and Excellent Rhythm are also top chances.”
Hornets’ Nest trained by Koroit hobby trainer James McNamara and King Of Dudes from the Aaron Purcell stable line up against the promising Bit Of A Lad in the Houlihan Hurdle, while tough Orford jumper Mannertone runs in a restricted steeplechase on the six race program.
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