Smug, a promising steeplechaser trained by Chris Wood, is set to seek redemption at Trentham today in the 139th running of the Grant Plumbing Wellington Steeplechase over 4,900 meters. The gelding initially gained attention last year when he crossed the finish line first in the maiden steeplechase at the same venue but was later disqualified for misrouting during the race.

Despite that setback, Wood maintained confidence in Smug’s abilities, guiding him into open company at the Hawke’s Bay Steeplechase in Woodville, where the horse secured a decisive victory over the notable competitor West Coast. Smug demonstrated competitive form early in this season by pushing accomplished jumpers Nedwin and Leaderboard to the finish while finishing third in the 3,900-meter Waikato Steeplechase.

Wood expressed satisfaction with Smug’s recent performance and condition. “He went a super race, he jumped well, did everything right and ran home well against two pretty handy horses,” Wood said. He added that the horse had recovered well and appeared content following the Waikato run. Wood also noted that Smug’s stamina should not be a concern over the longer distance at Trentham, describing him as “one of those horses with plenty of stamina and just keeps going.” However, he acknowledged that a bit of luck during the race would be beneficial.

Wood possesses a strong historical connection to the event, having previously won the Wellington Steeplechase twice as a rider in the mid-1980s—aboard Mr Hickey in 1984 and Long Acre the following year, the latter being his own mount. His stable also produced Foxhunt, a multiple-time victor in the race. “I haven’t had a runner in it for a while, so we’ll see what we come up with,” Wood remarked.

Following today’s $100,000 contest, Wood plans to defend Smug’s title in the Hawke’s Bay Steeplechase scheduled for July 12. The gelding defeated West Coast at Woodville in that race last year, and Wood intends to return there for another campaign. While Wood expressed some uncertainty about Smug’s suitability for the Grand National Steeplechase, he noted that conversations with the owners would determine future targets.

The Grant Plumbing Wellington Steeplechase remains one of New Zealand’s most prestigious jump racing events, and Smug’s performance will be closely watched as he aims to make amends for last year’s disqualification.