3 minute read
As more rain wound its way through central NSW last Thursday, Goulburn's track returned to a groundhog day style heavy rating.
Like many venues across NSW the tablelands track hasn't gone close to a 'good' rating in its past 12 meetings dating back to the start of March!
However, with Outahand and Zarafah the Emma & Lucy Longmire training team have two gallopers who are proven 'put in' types no matter the surface.
Outahand ($10) and Zarafah ($17) both tackle Race 6 on Monday's home program, The Best Western Plus Goulburn B58 Handicap over a mile.
In what could prove a blessing in disguise both runners were emergencies for Saturday's TAB Highway Plate but missed a run. Less miles on the road could translate to a stronger mile at home!
Outahand delivered a super consistent campaign through until Autumn this year which included a minor provincial placing behind a city performed horse like Tinnie Winnie.
The tough galloper resumed in July and Emma Longmire says that since then Outahand has shown his usual race day determination in two close up efforts.
"Yes both have been great runs. He was up in grade first up and second up over a fraction shorter than we would have liked but he always tries so hard in the run," Ms Longmire reflected.
The stable has him on a path to longer contests but can't fault where he is at right now with Amy McLucas continuing her association with the galloper on Monday.
"He will get out to a trip again and is looking for the mile now. He seems to handle any surface."
Outahand has a stout record at the mile and his home track has proven a profitable pond for connections in the past.
Zarafah is the other cache in the Longmires' two-pronged assault on the race and she doesn't mind a wet track scrap.
Andrew Adkins takes the ride with the mare a live chance to send her earnings over the $100 000 mark.
She had a luckless summer, racking up three runner-up results in a row around the South East and Southern districts. But the belief is still there with the mare only a length off subsequent city winner Flower Moon to start this prep.
Emma Longmire says the stable is keen to see what she can produce closer to home on Monday.
"We are very pleased with her! The first up run at provincial grade was very nice and then she wasn't beaten far second up."
It's expected that conditions on Monday will match up neatly with her resume.
"She's a horse that will go on any surface and thrives in wet conditions. Third up, we would expect her to be very competitive at the mile and in this grade."
The Longmires also have The Redman engaged in the final race on the program, The Hibernian Hotel Maiden over 1000m. The stable has the just turned three-year-old still taking baby steps as he resumes for just start number two.
"We decided to kick him off at 1000m this time. He is fresh going in after a couple of jump outs. We do believe he will get out to further this preparation, but it is a good starting point for him."
Goulburn has seven races to be run and won on Monday with the first timed to go at 1.00pm.
