In 2010, OK Commander looked to be on his way to a solid three-year-old campaign before an injury sidelined him for the season. Up to the plate stepped Aracache Hanover, who belted out a $745,000 season at three and is now competing with the top older horses at four
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On today's episode of Trot Radio, Norm Borg speaks with trainer Gregg McNair who sends out Ben Franklin elimination winner Aracache Hanover in Sunday's $500,000 final. This week, the only change for the four-year-old son of Dragon Again is the driver.
"Brian [Sears] said he'd go with whatever horse drew the best post position between him and Bettor Sweet," said McNair. "Bettor Sweet drew the rail so he went with him."
Tim Tetrick will drive Aracache Hanover for just the second time on Sunday but the two are certainly not strangers. Tetrick just missed winning the 2010 Windy City Pace with One More Laugh. The horse that beat them: Aracache Hanover.
"He raced a super trip, I guess he probably needed a few starts to round into shape," said McNair about Aracache Hanover's start to 2011. "I really don't know for sure if he can go with those horses going from his three to four-year-old year. It's pretty nice that he's keeping up with them so far!"
McNair also indicated that OK Commander has schooled twice and will be qualifying soon in his comeback from a cracked right knee.
Having just surpassed $30 million in lifetime earnings, McNair credits good horses and a great relationship with his drivers as keys to his success in harness racing. To listen to the full interview with Borg and McNair, please click the play button below.
Episode 207 – Trainer Gregg McNair
Audio Format: MP3 audio
Host: Norm Borg
Please note that the opinions expressed in the featured interview are those of the participants and do not necessarily reflect Rideau Carleton Raceway and/or Standardbred Canada.