Off The Canvas lifts to win

Bruce Stewart Journalist

Off The Canvas (Art Major) faced plenty of challengers at Ascot Park today, but he lifted when it counted and successfully achieved his first win.

Willamson took the gelding straight to the top. He was always travelling like a winner and went down to the wire to win by a length and a quarter from a brave Rakaturbo.

Williamson said Off The Canvas was challenged because he wasn’t setting a lightening fast tempo.

“He was asking to get attacked because he was relucent to run at a genuine pace. I was letting the other horses get right up to me to help him concentrate and keep his mind on the job. I was pleased with him and it’s a step in the right direction. It was the first time he’s lead in a race or workout. He’s quick, but he just has to get the all round game. Hopefully we can sharpen him up for the final,” Williamson said.

Off The Canvas was bought by the TAB at the 2024 NZB Standardbred Yearling Sales and entrusted to Williamson. When the TAB Racing Syndicate was dissolved, Williamson retained the gelding and syndicated him out to a number of stable clients.

“They (TAB) had done all the hard work and I’d found out  he was a fairly handy horse. I was lucky enough that he was offered to me first. Keith Norman was instrumental in putting some of the group together. I got the others together and I think they’ll have a bit of fun with this horse.”

Off The Canvas is out of Mach Three mare Triple Sec who’s done a great job at stud, leaving Justasec (44), Triple Play (17) and Triple Rock (11).

It was another good day for the Branxholme driver. He also reined home Kings Choice and Redback Bob for his father Phil and Delphyne for Riversdale trainer Brent McIntyre.

“He (Redback Bob) was really impressive. He handled the step up in grade well, the big field and the Invercargill track. He’s a horse with immense talent.”

Delphyne was also impressive.

“I’ve got a lot of time for her. She’s just a beautiful mannered filly with a good trotting gait and wants to please you.”