Former Sydney stayer eyes Mackay feature

By Garry Dell

All-round Townsville horseman Terry McGovern is hopeful a stable newcomer of his will be competitive in Saturday's $150,000 Mackay Cup.

McGovern has former New Zealand and Sydney gelding Andalus engaged for the stable's fourth run since transferring from the successful John O'Shea yard.

Andalus is already the winner of only two races with six placings in 24 starts.

The five-year-old Almanzor-sired galloper has amassed $321,413 in stake money.

McGovern, who has a lengthy history in the horse industry as a farrier, breaker and five years as a trainer, bought Andalus for $40,000 in an online sale two months ago.

He won a 1600 metre maiden in New Zealand before transferring to O'Shea and won over 2000 metres at Kembla Grange.

"I was looking for a horse that we could chase the country Cups up here in the hope of qualifying for the Country Cup Challenge Final in Brisbane later in the year so that's why he's had two starts so far on country tracks," McGovern said.

"We thought we would throw him into the main Cups up here in the hope we might snag one or pick up some handy prize money.

"The three qualifying CCC events this year are at Atherton, Cooktown and Home Hill.

"I was pleased with his run in the Townsville Cup on Saturday when he finished eighth.  Jockey Adrian Layt said he was still in with a chance until about 300 metres out but he didn't knock him about in the run to the line.

"The horse wasn't quite wound up fitness wise but he pulled up well and he worked well for me on Tuesday. Adrian will ride him again on Saturday."

McGovern has landed a few long-shot winners at Cluden Park in his comparatively short training career.

He currently has only three horses in work at his Black River establishment but has four "babies" - two of which are home-bred - ready to start on their education.

He rides most of his own track work on the property although he has help from his daughter. 

"She's away on holiday at the moment so it's a bit hectic but I enjoy being around the horses," McGovern said.

"A winner on Saturday would be nice

"But, as long as he pulls up sound we'll press on to the Cairns and Cairns Amateurs carnivals."