Mugford eyes winners circle with Ruthless Emma

[Wandering Eyes]

By Mike Love

Leeston trainer Anj Mugford will be looking for a trip to the winner’s circle at Addington today when Ruthless Emma lines up in race two, the Betavet Prepare Handicap trot over 2000m.

The four-year-old What The Hill mare has not missed a placing this campaign, and backs up today after a strong second placing last Sunday behind the talented Laura McKay-trained Birdy.

“She’s come through last week really well. She’s bright and happy in her work,” said Mugford.

The manners that Ruthless Emma brings will be a huge advantage over the shorter trip.

“Hopefully we’ll get a handy run on the fence this time.”

Mugford is under no illusions that they will have a fight on their hands with Friday night winner Origin in the race, as well as three other race winners in the field.

“Origin is one of the biggest dangers. It’s been right in the fight in almost all of its races.”

Origin for trainer Margo Nyhan retains a front row draw despite winning at Addington on Friday night. Concession junior driver Mia Holbrough will take the reins behind the obvious danger and current race favourite.

Other chances in the event include the Paul Nairn trained and driven Something Else, who was a handy fresh-up run when fifth last week, providing punters with some good value today. Meanwhile, the Jason Ford trained and driven Kingaroy looks set for an economical run if he brings his manners.

The race winners in the event will need to overcome their 20m handicaps to feature, which is not an easy feat over the shorter distance.

Mugford has trained two winners in her training career from limited starters, with Ruthless Emma looking to provide an upcoming thrilling era in Mugford’s career.

“I’m hoping to race her right through until the summer. It’s been a while since I’ve had a good horse, so I’ve decided I want to keep this one.

She’s well bred so she’ll be a nice broodmare one day as well.”

Mugford trains full-time while working for Kevin Fairbairn.

“I help out Kevin Fairbairn – he’s my neighbour – and then do my own. I do all of his shoeing and all of my own shoeing as well. So that fills up my days.

“I’m working four at the moment; there’s about fifteen out in the paddock that are due to start doing something.”

Race one gets underway at 12.40pm.

 

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