Past the Post with John Elsegood:ERKELENS STABLE ONE TO WATCH



Past The Post with John Elsegood
 
ERKELENS STABLE ONE TO WATCH
 
The heatwave conditions at Ascot on January 28 resulted in trainer Justine Erkelens scratching her runners for the day, Goose and Amberlyn in the third race and Away Ye Go in the fifth.

The previous week Erkelens had come off her first double in Perth when Disco Bling and Goose had both won in fine style.

On a roll the temptation to start her charges must have been great.

However, the decision to scratch her horses at that meeting probably gives some clue as to why the trainer is enjoying success. Patience and consideration is a virtue in most forms of life and particularly in racing.

It often brings its own reward too.

In more clement weather on February 4 Erkelens wasn't that far off a treble. In the end she had to be satisfied with Disco Bling enjoying back-to-back wins; Goose and Amberlyn running second and third respectively behind Drive West; while Away Ye Go completed another second for her behind Silver Omen.

On February 11, a day when Simon Miller gained all the attention with his magnificent double in the Magic Millions races for the 2yo and 3 yo gallopers, Erkelens had earlier landed her first quinella after Flashy Doll and Sundown Clown were too strong for the opposition in a 1600m handicap race.

Sundown Clown had not raced further than 1300m, and mainly over the 1000-1200m distance for previous trainer David Hayes but Erkelens sees him as at least a 1600 -1800 performer, and perhaps further.

His good second over the mile, to his stablemate, indicates the Muchea trainer is on the right track.

Erkelens passion for horses started as a schoolgirl and her racing experience was developed under Eric Parnham (now deceased) and included North-West involvement.

Her lifetime of equine study and involvement is now bearing fruit and her 'cricket side' of eleven gallopers has revealed some useful talent that should ensure continued success for her.