Philipsburg Trial Boosts Highway Prospects

As Sydney’s racing fraternity absorbs the Parramatta Local Government Area (which includes Rosehill) being declared one of the latest ‘High Risk’ LGAs, Saturday’s scheduled Royal Randwick meeting boasts a 10-race card. Among the more interesting events on the last day of the 2020-21 season is Race 2, a Highway handicap that’s attracted a strong field with a concomitant open market. Taking on another five runners under double figure odds, recent Goulburn trial winner Philipsburg (Per Incanto) finds himself right in the mix at around $7.50. Prepared by first season trainer James Ponsonby who is based at pristine south-western Sydney property The Oaks, Philipsburg produced an eye-catching trial a few weeks ago when accounting for last year’s Goulburn Cup winner Al Ma Haha (Al Maher). Ponsonby told racingnsw.com.au, “Without getting carried away by a trial it was impressive work - they ran time in really testing condition and closed strongly. We all know the form around Al Mah Haha.” Despite being ‘new’ as a trainer Ponsonby brings pedigree and form to his craft. Two decades of training and driving in the harness and pacing code is buttressed by having been foreman for Mark Newnham where he was involved with elite stable duo Shadow Hero (Pierro) and Nakeeta Jane (So You Think).