Lynne Kiddle’s first trip to Ascot on Super Saturday is one she would rather forget.
The build-up, the expectation and pressure to perform on WA racing’s biggest stage fell flat.
Kiddle’s Passenger gelding, Run Liam Run, made his long-awaited city debut. He earned the right after creating an impression in the Great Southern.
Last season he was crowned Albany Horse of the Year after winning five races including four in succession from his six starts.
Only a short-head second to the Steve Wolfe-trained I See Luck prevented Run Liam Run from completing a flawless campaign.
A first up win on home soil in November was good enough for Kiddle to roll the dice and have a crack at the big boys in Perth.
Her interest was sparked when after a lengthy spell during the winter he came out and posted a strong win over Tiger Pete.
Tiger Peter franked the form when he rattled home for a fast-finishing third to Hobart Jones at Ascot on November 14.
However; Run Liam Run failed to follow the script and produced a rare failure when eighth to Lenience in the Peace For Paris Handicap (1200m).
Contributing to his downfall a strong easterly breeze and a track bias that made it very difficult for backmarkers to pick up any ground.
Despite the prevailing conditions Kiddle admitted her first appearance at the home of Perth racing had left her deflated.
“I would like to have seen him hit the line better, but it was disappointing,” said Kiddle.
“Lisa (Staples) said he just raced flat.
“On the positive side he pulled up a treat.
“On the surface everything looks ok with him.
“I’m going to put it down to the travel factor.
‘It’s the first time he has been away from Albany.
“It’s a long trip of over five hours and it must take a toll.
“He will have a few light days to recover
“I’m putting it down to the travel but I’m sure we will learn from the experience.”
Kiddle said track work during the week will determine Run Liam Run’s immediate future.
Despite last Saturday’s defeat she is targeting a return to Perth, but insists she will adopt an alternative preparation.
“My instinct is telling me to target a 66 plus race at Ascot in a fortnight,” Kiddle said.
“But if I follow that path I will be taking a different approach.
“I will travel up the day before rather than on race day.
“That at least gives him time to recover and take away the travel element.
“But if he shows signs of not being right I have no hesitation in tipping him out.
“He will have a spell and return in the New Year.”
RWWA: Julio Santarelli