New Racing NSW board member Russell Balding will take a keen interest in proceedings at Orange on Saturday as a part-owner of the Gregory Hickman-trained Vin De Vie.
Balding, a former managing director of the ABC and Sydney Airport CEO, has been a long-time client of Warwick Farm-based Hickman.
Vin De Vie, to be ridden by Greg Ryan, lines up in the Grants Express Benchmark 60 Hcp (2100m).
A four-year-old daughter of Viscount got as a yearling at the Classic Sale, Vin De Vie is one of a number of runners Hickman will saddle up on the seven-race program.
By Hickman’s own admission, Vin De Vie has been an underachiever but the talented young horseman is hopeful the mare can add to her record tomorrow.
“She’s a mare that has always had issues,” Hickman said.
“As a young horse we thought she might go further but for one reason or another hasn’t quite lived up to that early promise.
“I’ve always thought she would come good over a bit of ground and the 2100 metres will suit Saturday.”
The lightly-raced Vin De Vie finally broke her maiden status when scoring a 1-3/4-length win over 1600m at Nowra on December 9 when she led and kicked back strongly to score.
Backing up nine days later over 2000m at Hawkesbury, Vin De Vie missed the start badly and tailed the field before finishing four lengths fourth to Swazie.
“She won a weak maiden then lost all chance at the start last time,” Hickman said.
“She probably should have won the other day given better luck.
“I’ve been happy with her work since and hopefully she can come out and win for Russell and the other owners.
“This is likely to be her last preparation before stud. She has a problem with asthma, breathing, but the vets tell me she’s good at the moment.
“I’m happy with where she’s at, especially with Greg on board.
“I’ve had a pretty good strike rate with him.”
AAP TURF
