Sea King and Monarch Chimes from New Zealand are the current major threat to jumper Wells’ attempt at a historic victory at the Grand National Steeplechase in Ballarat. Wells is aiming to be the first four-time winner of the famous event, which would earn him both the honour and the $350,000 prize if he wins.
Kathryn Durden, trainer of Geelong, put the 11-year-old through the steeple trial in Cranboune with the hopes of polishing up the horse before the big day. Jockey Richard Cully took the horse to the post more than two lengths clear during practise runs in the trial.
Wells joined Bashboy last year as three-time Grand National Steeplechase champion, and will be returning to Ballarat after claiming victory at the Mosstrooper Steeplechase in Bendigo. During the same event, Sea King finished six lengths behind, but he is still the biggest contender that Wells will have to face, along with rider Patrick Payne. The Ballarat event will be the fourth Grand National Steeplechase that Sea King has attended.
The horse has been commuting between Australia and New Zealand since the start of 2014, and saw victory at the Lafferty and Grand National hurdles in his first two starts, and eventually finished third to Bashboy in the Grand National in Sandown.
Although Sea King hasn’t seen a win since last year July, his current form suggests that he’s more than ready for the upcoming event at Ballarat, and may just steal the win from Wells.
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More About Gary Hicks
When it comes to knowing what’s going on, on the track, field or any other sporting arena, Gary Hicks is your man. With an almost unrivalled passion for journalism, sports and betting Gary decided to combine his love of all 3 and share his expertise with the world.
In the last few years Gary has risen through the ranks and prides himself on always keeping a finger on the pulse of what’s hot and happening in the sports betting world. Gary is the resident news expert at OnlineBettingNZ.co.nz and his articles make for invaluable fodder for any avid punter.
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