Former Gauteng based trainer Stephen Lerena has quietly relocated to the Eastern Cape, and had his first runners at the Fairview polytrack meeting on Tuesday.
Tabnews reports that all three Lerena runners earned a cheque, with battle hardened mare Samarra in the FM66 going closest, beaten a neck into second.
Stephen Lerena seen in centre of pic at Turffontein
“The horses only arrived last Thursday so I was very happy with the way it went” said Lerena on Wednesday.
“We’ve brought ten horses down, and have a 28 box barn, so there’s lots of space for expansion. Things are very competitive in Johannesburg, and you have to be proactive, so we are trying something new.
“Two who should do well in their new surroundings are Flaming Opal and Miss Lexi. I expect Flaming Opal to love the poly. Her last two have been in Joburg features so back in the handicaps she should be very competitive.
“Miss Lexi will like the better going on turf at Fairview. But we will have to see about how she takes to the poly.
“It’s all new to me – I’ve never lived in PE or raced there. But all of the trainers have been super helpful and welcoming.”
And horses on the fringes in major centres usually come good in PE, so the stable should be followed with interest over the next few months.
