Times Ticking primed for Group 1 assignment

[Wandering Eyes]

Times Ticking will contest the Group 1 Arrowfield Stud Plate (1600m) at Hastings on Saturday. Photo: Race Images South

Overcoming a setback, Times Ticking is set for a belated entry into a top-flight contest at the Hawke’s Bay spring carnival.

Trainer and part-owner Alby MacGregor had to alter his plans for the opening day of the meeting due to a foot issue with his pride and joy.

Despite the hiccup, Times Ticking is in good shape for Saturday’s Group 1 Arrowfield Stud Plate (1600m) at Hastings.

MacGregor explained the change in plans, saying, “We were going to run him in the Tarzino Trophy (Group 1, 1400m), but he got a crook foot, so we had to flag that.”

Times Ticking showcased promising form in lead-up trials, indicating readiness for his return to competition.

“He’s just starting to lose his coat a bit now, and he’s looking good. It’s the old story, he’s very, very well at the moment, and if you’re not in, you’ll never know,” MacGregor added.

Times Ticking had a successful autumn campaign, winning both the Group 3 Canterbury Gold Cup (2000m) and the Listed Easter Cup (1600m) at Riccarton.

However, his winter preparation hit a roadblock at Wanganui when he finished last in the Listed AGC Training Stakes (1600m) after experiencing a heart fibrillation.

MacGregor, despite this unusual setback, expressed confidence in Times Ticking’s recovery, stating, “He hasn’t showed any signs of ill effect at all.”

The Tavistock son’s versatility is highlighted by his ability to perform well on both firm and heavy surfaces, having claimed victories in ten races under varying track conditions.

With Lisa Allpress in the saddle for the Arrowfield Stud Plate, MacGregor is unfazed by the track conditions at Hastings, stating, “I’m not worried about it at all; he’ll be enjoying that track.”

Looking ahead, MacGregor has aspirations to take Times Ticking back to Christchurch for the Group 3 Coupland’s Bakeries Mile (1600m).

He emphasized the fluid nature of their plans, saying, “It’s a bit race by race at the moment, but I would dearly like to take him back south for a crack at that if he’s going well at the time.”

Times Ticking has a positive history at Riccarton, winning three out of five appearances, and MacGregor often involves his family in the southern ventures, staying with son Dean at Rangiora and having grandson Matthew, an apprentice blacksmith, assisting with strapping duties.

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