Corrovally Star on the move - "he was the king of a very small kingdom"

By Dave Di Somma, Harness News Desk 

Corrovally Star, a horse that Bruce Negus thinks is good enough to contest a New Zealand Cup, has moved stables less than two months out from this year's big race.

The son of Washington VC has won six from 41 starts and kicked off 2022 with second placings behind Allamericanlover and Akuta in Nelson.

But in recent starts he's been unable to replicate that form.

"He just hasn't been 100 per cent and we were disappointed with his last run," says Negus.

That was a last placing in the Maurice Holmes Vase, won by Heza Sport at Addington on August 26.

A corn in one foot and a crack in another were then found and treated before the decision was made to send him to Regan Todd at Lavros Lodge. It was a temporary move that may turn permanent.

"He's got a good blacksmith (Paul Howlett) and there's a pool and when we saw him there he looked to have picked up a little so we decided to leave him there," says Negus.

"He will stay there till the Methven Cup at least."

That's set down for October 9.

Corrovally Star is currently 37th in the New Zealand Cup rankings and Negus knows time is running out to qualify.

"He would have to win at least once or place in one of the qualifying races."

"He's not a champion but he is a very good horse."

Negus is hopeful the swimming pool and the change of environment may just do the trick with the four-year-old who can be a handful.

"He might find it a bit different, here he was the king of a very small kingdom."

As for losing a horse of Corrovally Star's ability Negus is not that bothered.

"I had no problem moving Courage Under Fire on because he was no good at standing starts here, or sending Africa to Mark Purdon or Sly Flyin to Tony Herlihy .. you have to do what's in the best interests of the horse."

At this stage Sheree Tomlinson, who works for Negus, will retain the drive with the likelihood he will trial at least once before heading to the Methven Cup.