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D-Day For Bling It On

24 May 2018

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A mid-week trial could determine future plans for Bling It On.

The millionaire pacer will venture to TABCORP Park, Menangle next Tuesday and be given a “race” like hit-out which will ultimately paint a clearer picture for his connections.

Bling It On disappointed badly in his return to racing last weekend when a fading sixth behind Match In Heaven after gaining an easy lead.

It was a long way from his best.

And left his biggest supporter a little perplexed.

“I can’t explain it; I’ve gone over the race a million times and can’t come up with an excuse. I was more than happy with his trial leading into the event but he just wasn’t himself the other night.” Regular driver Luke McCarthy said.

A series of exhaustive and thorough tests were carried out earlier this week and couldn’t shed any light on the situation.

The mystery deepens.

The public trial next week is likely to confirm future plans for the popular entire.

The son of American Ideal covered over 80 mares during the recent breeding season while still performing on the race track.

“It will be a very strong trial; I want to drive him like it is race conditions just to make sure he still has it. I thought the tests would provide some answers but it didn’t so we’re back to square one again.

“We won’t be racing him for the sake of it so retirement is being considered; he’s been a great horse from the very beginning of his career and doesn’t need to prove anything. After all, he does have a stallion career in front of him.

“But no decision will be made until after the trial, if he bounces back and shows his best we will push on with our original plans.”

The main focus this campaign has been centered on the Brisbane winter carnival at Albion Park in July, the main aim is the Gr.1 $200,540 UBET Blacks A Fake Queensland Championship on July 21.

The 15 time Group winner possesses an excellent record at the Brisbane oval and relishes the staying trips hence why the Blacks A Fake is the primary target.

Last season, many thought his career was over after suffering major injuries following a race fall in the Lucky Creed on June 17.

After several months of extensive rehabilitation, Bling It On made a successful comeback when triumphant at Menangle on November 18.

The Craig Cross/Luke McCarthy stable are represented at Albion Park this weekend with a trio of runners engaged.

Living Again (Race 6), Hashtag (Race 7) and Admiral Bronski (Race 9) all step out and look hard to beat in their respective events.

Local reinsmen Chris Petroff (Living Again), Grant Dixon (Hashtag) and Pete McMullen (Admiral Bronski) will take the drives.

Talented filly Darkershadeofpale is also part of the Brisbane based team and will start in the $20,540 Redcliffe Oaks on June 8.

The Changeover filly scored an impressive victory at Penrith last start on April 12 while looking sharp in a recent trial at Menangle.

 

Chris Barsby | RQ Web News | May 24 | Photo by Dan Costello