The Importance of Earnest Ernest

Published: 26 Dec 2014

Pretty in Pink - Earnest Ernest is an impressive galloper, but not the most genuine

Punters around Australia will be smirking at the sight of Race 7, Number 4 at Canterbury today. Joseph Pride brings the much-maligned sprinter Earnest Ernest back to the track as a nine-year-old, a galloper famous for his ‘fear’ of the winning post.

When he strolls into the mounting yard at about 4:40pm the first thing you will notice is his strength. The next thing you might note is his exuberant attitude as soon as the jockey goes on. There is always the possibility he will rear-up before the stewards get him onto the track early.

What you won’t be able to see is what is going on ‘upstairs’. For some reason he is a pack runner - a horse that doesn’t like to run to the lead on his own. Not a great attribute for a racehorse!

In his favour you can count a recent trial victory and a good turn-of-foot. A place bet makes a lot of sense, but wagering you’re hard-earned cash for the win requires a whole lot of faith.

For the Form Guide click here (Race Guides available for Races 4, 5 and 6)