16 February 2009 Preview: East Cornwall - Great Trethew
ROCKWITHACAVEMAN: won last weekend at Buckfastleigh and is entered in the Mixed Open
The East Cornwall has 112 entries for their eight races at Great Trethew next Sunday (February 22).
The Hunt race gets proceedings under way at 11.30, with Kingsmill Lake looking likely to follow up last year's win. Her stable companion Walter de Wodeland gives trainer Jackie du Plessis, who is also the meeting's Entries Secretary, a strong hand in this race.
The Open Maiden for four to seven-year-olds is run over two and a half miles and has been split three ways. Taralina ran well on her pointing debut at Black Forest and has placed form under rules. She may have most to fear in the first section from Will Scarlet, who was well backed at Chipley Park and will be better suited by this trip.
Mr Dass has been placed in both of his outings this year and can step up for Lucy Gardner in the second division. Desert Wells could be a sporting choice to open his account in the third section.
The other Maiden on the card is run over three miles and confined to local horses. Bishy Barnaby's second at Black Forest gives him an outstanding chance here.
The 17 entries for the Mixed Open include Sunday's Buckfastleigh winner Rockwithacaveman, and Southwestern, who finished runner up on his seasonal debut at that venue. Last year's winner of this event, Dare Too Dream will have his followers, and other recent winners include Yes My Lord, Master Overseer and the improving Dutch Bill. Long Night, Stone Valley and Thirtytwo Red also hold winning form in what could be a fascinating contest.
There are 19 nominations for the Restricted, headed by the impressive Cannington Brook, who won at Barbury Castle. His main rivals will be recent winners Bathwick Shannon and Stillhertoes.
The Confined race looks very competitive. The progressive Ellies Horse can bid for his seasonal hat trick for the Heard yard, but will have to contend with Wadebridge winner Ballybrown; also Jack's Taxi who had subsequent winner Jean's Joy behind him when scoring at the Mid Devon. Lisheen Storm and Karinga Coin also figure amongst the 15 entries.
The course is located one mile south of the A38, three miles south-east of Liskeard. Admission costs £20 for a car and all occupants, with a reduction to £15 for a car with single occupant. The usual bars and food will be available, and secretary Kate Young reports that ladies in pink will be collecting during the afternoon for breast cancer charities. Kate also makes a plea for last year's winning owners to bring back the cups since there are still a few missing.
