It’s 6.30am and the roosters of Longford aren’t the only animals showing signs of life.
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At the historic Longford Racecourse, thoroughbreds have been galloping down the main straight since first light, with some having their final trackwork sessions before the Launceston Cup.
Steam rises from the bodies of the runners as they’re cooled off after completing their routines.
JKB trainer John Blacker keeps a keen eye on his runner, Smoke ‘N’ Whisky, as the gelding completes two flying laps around the course.
“He worked on the grass over 1800 [metres], and ran his last 600 in 38 [seconds] on the bit which is good work for him” Mr Blacker said.
Jockey Glenn Hodgetts led the racehorse back to the JKB racing stables before Mr Blacker removed the horse’s saddle and took him for a swim in their recovery pool.
From here on in it’s only light work left for Smoke ‘N Whisky before starting from barrier four in the Launceston Cup on Wednesday.
“He'll go for a slow trot and canter again on Wednesday morning and hopefully turn up at the race feeling better than we are” Mr Blacker said with a wry smile.