As we approach the weekend of festive racing, we’d like to take the chance to thank all the participants who continue to care for our horses over the holiday season. We are fortunate enough to have runners on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day this weekend, which wouldn’t be possible without their commitment.
Mark Twain will get our weekend started in the 1600m 3yo Maiden at Hawera (NZ), provided the track conditions are suitable. After an immature showing on debut, he was sent back to the trials, winning his heat nicely with the addition of blinkers. The James & Wellwood stable have always held this fellow in high regard, so an improved effort is expected should he take his place.
We then turn to Mirann in the 1600m Benchmark 80 at Doomben, set to have his first run for new trainer Matt Dunn. He’s enjoyed a change of scenery and many mornings at the beach, which will hopefully culminate in a forward showing. He is better suited over further, but we hope to see him find a rhythm in running and doing his best work late. He’s a tricky horse to get a true line on but his best is good enough.
Sous Les Nuages will round off our Saturday in the 2500m Benchmark 78 at The Valley following a game effort in defeat at Morphettville last start. Despite being up for a long time this preparation, he continues to race in consistent fashion. From a nice draw, he should be afforded every chance to run well in what is a very even staying contest.
Our Boxing Day kicks off with Pankhurst in the 1800m Fillies & Mares Benchmark 70 at Sandown, stepping up to metropolitan level after a well-deserved win last time out. She has come back in good form this preparation, showing a liking to the firmer summer tracks. Despite the rise in grade, we are looking forward to seeing her up in trip and on a suitable surface, with strong city prizemoney on offer.
Our attention then turns to Newcastle where Melanin will likely make his debut in the 1350m Colts, Geldings & Entires Maiden. Purchased out of the trials in New Zealand, he has progressed well with Annabel Neasham. It appears he’ll appreciate getting out to a mile and potentially further in time, so this looks a nice starting point. A competitive effort first-up wouldn’t surpirse.
There is some doubt over whether Flashing Steel will take his place in the 1350m Colts, Geldings & Entires Benchmark 64 given the wide alley. Should he start and be afforded even luck, he is a great chance of being in the mix once again. His win at Scone had plenty of merit and he should have gained good confidence out of that performance. His work inbetween has pleased so wherever he heads next, we look forward to a competitive effort.
We wish our connections all the very best of luck. Hopefully, there is plenty to cheer about this Christmas weekend!