Kembla Grange trainers forced to reshuffle plans as South Coast fires worsen

Racing NSW has cancelled a number of race meetings due to the dangerous weather conditions, with Tuesday's Nowra race meeting the latest to be abandoned.

With so much uncertainty, Robert Price said trainers have resorted to entering horses in multiple races across numerous locations to cover their bases.

"This is the worse weather I've ever encountered in my life, in regards to fires," Price said. "A lot of people out there in their 90s say the same. My dad's 86 and he's a dairy farmer and he said it's the worst drought he's seen on the south coast. All our costs have gone up, it's not easy, it's a battle.

"We've had to hedge our bets with our nominations. The fires could go on and on for months so we're hedging our bets and putting our horses in everywhere. Moruya could be in danger too next week, you've got to stay in front of the game."

Price's preparations have been made challenging given each mount responds differently to the smoke.

As a result, the possibility of an abandonment must be factored in when finding the right race for his runners.

"With horses breathing smoke in every day, it's a bit of a grey area. It's like humans, some people cope, others can't, horses are no different. Some horses are asthmatics and are struggling at the moment, so it's difficult to prepare them.

"We just have to dial them back and don't overwork them. It's no different to your son or daughter, you have to be conscious of what you do with them."

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Price currently has four horses listed to run in Friday night's meeting at Canterbury Park, however he said that is more of a backup plan should Monday's Moruya races be cancelled.

The veteran trainer is targeting Budderoo Knight at the Moruya Cup, having run a solid third at the same track the week before Christmas.

Price is confident the eight-year-old can challenge for victory in the 1425 metre race, his second run after a lengthy spell.

"He's got a great record at Moruya. He's a lovely horse, the handicapper will probably decide how he goes. He's earned some weight at country level, he's been competitive at provincial level.

"He was really good last run, just on his mark. He was beaten by two horses of a similar ability, both horses have won in the city, they'll meet again on Monday.

"He's great to have around, there was word of retiring him this prep but I was having none of that. You need one of these older fellas in your stable."

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