Trainer Pat Carey from the local area has at last shaken off the Hareeba Stakes jinx thanks to Recon’s explosive late charge that clinched victory at Mornington.
The Listed Hareeba Stakes (1200m) proved a persistent challenge for Carey, who had chased success there over multiple seasons, including runner-up spot with Kelthorpe back in 2006 and third placing courtesy of Dan Zephyr a decade afterward.
Fast forward ten more years, and Recon has gifted the Pat Carey and Harris Walker team the highlight sprint race held on Mornington Cup Day.
Under Patrick Moloney’s ride, Recon at $4.80 surged late to claim a 1-½ length victory over the $4.40 market elect La Fracas, while Pop Award at $10 filled third position just a half-length further back.
“This race has been a bit of a thorn in my side,” Carey said.
“We’ve had plenty of goes at this race, so it’s nice to win this race today.
“I’ve run a number of placings in it but Recon has always shown good ability.
“Steve Watkins, who owns him and bred him, always felt he was one of his better horses he has had and he’s had a number of good horses including Abaridy who won a Caulfield Guineas.
“He got shuffled back to nearly last at one point just before the corner, but Pat didn’t panic and brought him out wide and gave him a clear run.
“He’s done nothing wrong since coming down to Melbourne, and he’s got a bit bigger and bit stronger. He’s still a lightly raced horse and he’s still learning his trade and open to good improvement.”
After shifting to Mornington post the Epsom Training Centre shutdown last century, Carey assumed the stable area once used by Ken Newman, the preparer of Hareeba.
“When Kenny wound down his training operation, I took over his stalls and I daresay the stall Recon sits in everyday is Hareeba’s old stall,” Carey said.
Carey aims to put Saturday’s event behind him prior to plotting Recon’s next move, with the gelding boasting six triumphs from 11 outings.
“I haven’t thought about anything other than today,” Carey said.
“He’s a lightly raced horse and there’s lots of races for a horse like him this year, next year and hopefully the year after.”
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