Unscripted hiccup could be blessing in disguise for Dunn speedster
Sydney Morning Herald
by Ray HicksonFebruary 14, 2026
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A minor setback turned into a strategic advantage for trainer Matthew Dunn and his star mare Scripted. When an elevated inflammatory marker during routine testing halted her planned trip to Sydney’s Randwick track, Dunn saw it as “just a little hiccup.” The delay allowed Scripted to refocus, and she returned to full health without missing any training or work. Now, she is leading Dunn's team for the $150,000 Evergreen Turf Northern Rivers Country Championships at Coffs Harbour.
Dunn’s stable was slightly reduced with the withdrawal of Without Parallel, leaving six horses in contention. Among them, Scripted stands out as Dunn’s top choice. The mare has consistently performed well this preparation, despite facing challenges like unfavorable starting positions. For instance, she nearly won a significant race at Magic Millions Fillies and Mares after conceding a poor barrier but still ran impressively.
Dunn expressed confidence in his horses’ ability to adapt to the race pace, noting that while some may thrive on speed, others prefer a steadier tempo. To maximize their chances, he brought in experienced jockey Nash Rawiller, known for his skill in managing wide gates. Rawiller’s expertise will be crucial as Kingdom Underseige, a recent winner at Highway level, aims to extend his streak.
The championships also feature other promising contenders like Considered and Moscow Circus. Dunn highlighted Considered’s potential on wet tracks, given her agility and ability to handle challenging conditions. Jett Newman, Dunn’s apprentice, earned his first Sydney win with Scripted at Rosehill, showcasing the mare’s talent and adaptability.
Overall, the event promises to be competitive, with Dunn’s team well-prepared and confident in their horses’ abilities. For readers interested in global horse racing, this story illustrates how minor setbacks can sometimes lead to unexpected opportunities, emphasizing the resilience and adaptability of both horses and their trainers.
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/14/2026