The forecast was not looking good at the beginning of the week, but by the time race day rolled around Sunday the weather was stunning for the annual Cheviot Harness race meeting at Addington.
With a small field of only 6 runners in the Cheviot Businesses Cheviot Cup, it was no surprise when favourite Tiger Tara stormed home to win by a length over Graduate Under Fire after being 4 lengths behind at the final bend. Tiger Tara is out of Tara’s Gold by Bettor’s Delight and is trained by Geoff Dunn at West Melton and was driven by Gerard O’Reilly. He is owned by R L Sandford, Mrs J A Sandford, J S Gould, and G R Dunn.
The upset of the day was in Race 4 when $28 shot The Bog Father Christmas by half a length. Majestic Time placed 3rd after Astrapi was relgated for galloping in the final stages and being lapped on. The Bog is out of Spin Ya Wheels by Monarchy and is trained and driven by Nigel McGrath at Weedons.
The Bog beating Father Christmas, Majestic Time and Astrapi in Race 4 at Cheviot
In spite of their second placing, Seafield syndicate manager Neil Bennett was very happy with his horse’s “HUGE” run after Father Christmas was held up at the start when Kowhai Sunrise turned sideways and driver Brad Williamson had to go around.