Australia’s most exciting pacer and early TAB Eureka favorite, Always Hot, has suffered a significant setback due to injury, forcing him to miss the prestigious harness race. The three-year-old, unbeaten in all eight starts, including a remarkable victory in the Group 1 NSW Derby, was a top contender for the $2.1 million TAB Eureka in September. However, owner-breeder Peter Gleeson confirmed that the colt had been sidelined after a recent full-body scan revealed concerning “hot spots.”
Gleeson expressed disappointment over the situation but emphasized the importance of prioritizing the horse’s well-being by giving him the necessary time to recover in the paddock, avoiding potential long-term issues. Despite missing out on the upcoming races, Gleeson remains optimistic about Always Hot’s future prospects, hinting at a possible return for events like the Vicbred and Breeders Crown later in the year or aiming for the Chariots Of Fire early next year.
The setback not only impacts Always Hot’s racing career but also poses a challenge for Gleeson, who sees the talented colt as one of his most promising horses since the loss of Ride High to injury. The similarities in size and potential risks associated with managing such powerful horses are not lost on Gleeson, underscoring the need for caution and patience in their training and racing endeavors.
In a double blow to Gleeson’s racing stable, his star mare Very Pretty, with an impressive record of nine wins out of ten starts, will also miss the TAB Eureka. Despite her exceptional racing abilities, the mare has faced setbacks, including recent training interruptions, leading to her withdrawal from the upcoming event. Gleeson remains hopeful for Very Pretty’s swift recovery and a return to the racetrack later in the year, aiming to showcase her true potential in future competitions.
While the absence of Always Hot and Very Pretty from the TAB Eureka is a disappointment for Gleeson, he is looking ahead to the Queensland Constellations carnival with his other three-year-olds. With potential contenders like Go Miki and Looks Perfect in his stable, Gleeson remains optimistic about their chances in the upcoming races, highlighting his commitment to nurturing and developing young talent in the harness racing industry.
The challenges faced by Gleeson and his stable reflect the unpredictable nature of the sport, where injuries and setbacks can alter the course of a horse’s career. Despite the setbacks, Gleeson’s determination to prioritize the well-being of his horses and strategic planning for their future endeavors exemplify the dedication and resilience required in the competitive world of harness racing.
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