Matt Purvis with strong hand at Westport

[Wandering Eyes]

By Mike Love 

The Matt Purvis stable looks to be one to watch at Westport today, with a number of very live chances.  

Two of his runners go around in Race 1, the Stu Bailey Memorial (Sponsored By Mark Jones) HCP Trot over 2600m.

Drawn one is Learning To Fly, to be driven by Robbie Close. Having only her third career start today, she is backing up from her strong fresh up run for second at Addington back on February 19.

Purvis is confident of the filly’s ability, but wary of her potential immaturity in the ringcraft department. 

“At the trials she was stepping away better, and it’s her first go on the grass, but it’s harder under race day conditions. If she steps away she’s a good top four chance,” said Purvis. 

Newcomer to the stable Didn’t Di, driven by owner/driver Tayla Duley, has been with Purvis since the New Year after beginning her career initially with Phil Williamson in Oamaru before a stint further south with Earl Swain. 

Purvis is happy with the progression of the five-year-old Majestic Son gelding, having trialled twice, winning his most recent at Rangiora on February 24.

“He’s had a couple of trials, and won his most recent one nicely. He has run a placing on the grass which helps him out a touch. He should have a pretty decent chance if he steps away with them.” 

Race 2, the Quay Marine – Many Thanks Lorraine Scanlon Pace over 2000m (3.02PM) will see the well-supported Ultimatum, driven by John Dunn, seek his maiden victory at start 24.

“He’s not going to get a better chance to break maidens. With any sort of luck he’d be one of my stronger chances for the trip.

“He likes a stand, and has a good draw so hopefully we are in the top two coming around the last bend.” 

Purvis rates hot favourite Prosperity as his best of the day in Race 6, the Sam Kydd Memorial Jennian Homes (Team Teal) Mobile Pace over 2600m (4.49pm).

Prosperity relished his return to beach training after an eye-catching run first up for Purvis at Rangiora last weekend. Kerryn Tomlinson takes the drive.

“He was a certainty beat first up. He’s come through that run good and he’s travelled over nicely. He’s my best chance. 

“He’s quick with one run at them but can still get a bit keen. So I’ll leave it up to Kerryn how they see it.”

Purvis’ final chance will come in Race 8, the $20,000 Buller Chartered Accountants Kawatiri Cup over 2600m (6.04pm).

Flying Bird,  driven by Gavin Smith, will be looking to take advantage of her front line draw with her usual fast beginning. 

“Her stand start manners are key. She likes to lead and bowl along a bit. She should have a solid top four chance.” 

Flying Bird performed well on the Coast circuit over the recent Xmas/New Year period, winning at the Westport Boxing Day meeting while running second in the Reefton Cup on December 30.

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