Training trio on the hunt for Timaru first
In pursuit of their maiden victory as a training trio, the esteemed North Canterbury couple, John and Karen Parsons, have forged a new alliance with former South Canterbury trainer Vicky Ramhit.
Having spent five years in the employ of the Parsons before a three-year partnership with Timaru trainer Bruce Tapper, Ramhit brings a wealth of experience, including triumphs in notable races such as the Group 3 Barneswood Farm Stakes and the Listed Dunedin Guineas.
The Parsons and Ramhit recently debuted their collaboration at Riccarton, and their ambitions for a first triumph intensify with six contenders at Timaru’s Phar Lap Raceway.
Karen Parsons expressed optimism about the partnership, stating, “Vicky had approached us, and we’re at the stage now where we need someone to help us out, so it’s worked out all right.”
Highlighting Final Savings as a potential victor, Parsons conveyed Ramhit’s attachment to the horse, emphasizing, “Vicky’s been through our runners, and he’s hoping Final Savings can be the one.
“He was always his favourite horse when he worked here before.”
The Savabeel eight-year-old Final Savings, brings a record of six wins in 77 starts. Although yet to secure a victory in a fresh state, Parsons asserted the horse’s readiness for a spirited performance, guided by the stable’s 4kg-claiming apprentice, Mahipal Singh.
“The horse is really forward. He’s been working really well, and we’re hoping he can run well,” Parsons affirmed.
The stable’s other contenders at Timaru include Cheyenne Bodie, On File, My Degree, Colossal, and Henriqui. Additionally, Watch Out and Amberecho will showcase exhibition gallops in preparation for racing assignments at Ashburton the following weekend.
Expressing a sentimental wish for My Degree’s success, Parsons shared, “I’d love to see My Degree win. One of his owners hasn’t been very well, and we’d love to see her run well for him.”
“We used to train the mother, and as John said, she wouldn’t have even got warmed up before she got up to 1600m, so the extra distance should really help her.”
Assured of the team’s meticulous preparation, Parsons expressed hope that one of their entries could secure the victory that would mark a significant milestone for the newly formed training partnership with Ramhit.