The Art Form Posts Courageous Comeback
25 July, 2018
Harness
Trainer Mike Reed hasn’t lost faith that The Art Major can recapture his best form.
His confidence in the son of Art Major boosted after he scored a brilliant win at Northam on Tuesday.
At just his second start back from a two-year injury layoff, the former Kiwi import coasted to an easy victory in the Follow Northam Harness On Facebook Pace (2190m).
A delighted Reed said The Art Form underlined his class and showed impressive courage to fight back after a knee injury threatened to end his promising career.
“We bought him from New Zealand for our WA Derby, but he fractured his knee,” Reed said.
“It set us back as he raced against some of the best in New Zealand including Lazarus.
“We thought his racing career was all over, so to get him back is a real bonus.
“The vets had ruled a line through him and said he was unlikely to race again.”
The Art Form won four races in New Zealand and is raced by Albert Walmsley.
Reed said it was his long-time stable client’s persuasiveness that led to The Art Form defying the odds.
“The Art Form was running around enjoying himself at Albert’s paddocks,” Reed said.
“I didn’t give it much thought, but he suggested we get him back to the races.
“I wasn’t so sure, but the horse is injury free and showing no signs of soreness.
“If there is a hint of soreness he will be retired immediately.”
The Art Form put the writing on the wall of an upcoming win when first-up at Pinjarra a couple of weeks ago he ran on solidly for fourth behind Lincs Tiger.
Reed remains confident there is further improvement in The Art Form.
“He came in blowing last night (Tuesday) and after Pinjarra,” Reed said.
“He will get fitter and fitter with each run.
“If his knees hold up I’m confident he can return to his best.
“I can’t see why not and my fingers are crossed.
“He will race at Gloucester Park next week.”
The Art Form launched the first leg of a double for Reed after All The Whispers overcame a gallop at the start to score a powerful win in the Follow Photography By Jodie Hallows On Facebook Pace (2190m).
“I walked away thinking we had lost it after he galloped,” Reed said.
“I think he can win in town.”
Julio Santarelli
Picture Credit: Scott Hamilton Media