Float breakdown disrupts Weir runners

A float carrying a number of Darren Weir-trained horses to the Pakenham race meeting has broken down en route to the course.

Racing Victoria stewards were alerted to the breakdown around 12.15pm.

Another float was dispatched to pick up the horses in races four, five and six with the hope of getting them on course in time.

Unfortunately time fell short for pre-race favourite Cheeky Babe in the Momentum Gaming Handicap with the mare withdrawn by stewards at 1.53pm, 52 minutes before her scheduled starting time.

Horses were due on course two hours before their starting time on Saturday.

Stewards asked that Gratwick be vetted on his arrival for the fifth race, the Wise Choice Catering Handicap.

A second float carrying Weir’s later runners was able to pick up Pakenham Cup contestant Lord Van Percy.