Receiving a race morning call that requires weight reduction isn’t ideal, but Reece Jones’ dedication to the task has led to Lighthouse Lass securing her second career win after overcoming a tardy start.
Jones, who had five rides booked at Rosehill with the lightest weight at 52.5kg, received a call from trainer Will Freedman on Saturday morning. He was asked if he would partner Lighthouse Lass at 52kg following the first emergency gaining a start in the Kia Ora Bloodlines to Headlines Handicap (1100m).
The jockey accepted and promptly commenced shedding the remaining half-kilogram.
“It was a little bit late notice, but the advantages of being four-feet tall,” Jones quipped. “It definitely helps. I had to get the weight off this morning, and I’m glad I did now.”
Lighthouse Lass had not won since her debut at Scone in January last year, but had placed in five of her eight starts since joining Richard and Will Freedman in February.
Will Freedman was delighted to see her finally break through, stating she deserved a change of fortune.
“She’s had her fair share of bad luck,” Freedman said. “The one thing that really benefitted her today was missing the kick and having a bit of room to build into it. She’s not that tractable when things don’t go her way. They did go her way today, and she was always going to be strong late because she’s come back in distance.”
In the Irresistible Pools and Spas Handicap (1400m), the Chris Waller-trained four-year-old Tarzing achieved his third win from five starts, marking a successful period for Phil Gould, General Manager of Football for the Canterbury Bulldogs, and club Chairman Adam Driussi, who are part-owners of Tarzing. This victory followed the Bulldogs’ win against the Gold Coast Titans on Friday night.
Darren Beadman, assistant trainer to Chris Waller, expressed optimism about the four-year-old’s progression.
“He really hasn’t put a foot wrong. His form was good in Melbourne, and he came up here in good order,” Beadman said. “It was a nice win and he’s going through his grades nicely.”
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