Cambridge trainer Ann Browne said it wasn't a reluctance to travel that made her decide not to have a runner in tomorrow's Hawke's Bay Steeplechase, which was abandoned because of a lack of numbers.
Hawkes Bay Racing called the black type steeplechase off when only seven nominations were received, meaning this year will be the first time the race has not been run since 1882.
Its general manager John McGifford told media that one reason for the lack of numbers was the reluctance of Browne to take her horses long distances to the races since her husband Ken became paralysed when falling from a horse on May 1.
Browne, however, said it was simply a case of not having any horses that were up to running in the race.
"I had hoped to put Fair Brother and All Rhythm in the race but they have both come up with little injuries," she said.
"Apart from them we didn't have anything else ready for it.
"Drops O'Rain and Arab Hunter were only having their first races this season at Te Rapa [on Wednesday] and they weren't ready for a race like the Hawkes Bay race and others like Corporate aren't really up to the class."
Browne did not agree with Hawkes Bay Racing's decision to call the race off, saying that black type races should never be called off for lack of numbers.
"Six or seven horses is enough to hold a race," she said.
Meanwhile, Browne was delighted to see Arab Hunter and Drops O'Rain run first and third in the Porritt Sand Steeplechase at Te Rapa.
However, she wasn't there for the race, instead travelling to Christchurch to be by her husband's side at Burwood Spinal Unit after he became ill on Tuesday.
"He had some stuff blocking his lungs but that's been dealt with and he's much better now," she said.
Ken Browne is expected to remain in Christchurch for some weeks.
- NZPA
Racing: Browne team not ready
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