Leading jumps trainer, Paul Nelson, will have strong chances in each of the two feature jumps races at Te Aroha tomorrow, but still holds some reservations ahead of the event.

The nine year old Zed gelding, Perry Mason, has been in fine form for Nelson over the winter, and will head into the Irvines Great Northern Steeplechase over 6,300 metres as a $3.50 favourite with TAB bookmakers.

He has won four times over this term, including a last start victory in the Pakuranga Hunt Cup over 4200 metres at Te Aroha, and Nelson is happy with his charge heading into tomorrow’s assignment.

“I am very pleased with the way he is going, “Nelson said.

“In his last start, the Pakuranga Hunt Cup, he did everything right that was asked of him, he has been very good since, he is a happy horse, he was bucking his brand off this morning,” Nelson added.

Despite his run of form Nelson said,” Perry Mason is untested at the extreme distance, so he is into the race with reserve expectations,” he added

Perry Mason

Staying future for English Gambler

Promising four year old English Gambler has pleased his trainer, Lauren Brennan, in his only four starts to date, and she believes he has the potential to reach cups class in New Zealand.

The gelding has yet to finish outside of the top two, and broke through for his maiden victory over a mile at Tauranga.

He is unbeaten at the distance, and will attempt to keep that record intact atTe Aroha tomorrow, when he lines up in the Auckland Co-op Taxis Handicap over 1600 metres.

English Gambler is a really a good type with a big future ahead of him, he gives every indication that distance will not be his problem.

He is owned in Singapore but will continue to race in New Zealand, as there are better opportunities there for staying horses, and English Gambler looks the ideal stayer.

English Gambler - A promising stayer