This evening sees two runners take to the track for OTI, starting with our Frankel gelding San Remo getting back up to the 3000m distance at The Valley. A horse that relishes in the staying races and is holding his form, we hope to see him replicate his recent 3000m win at Cranbourne tonight.
Etna also joins him for the twilight Moonee Valley meeting, taking on a strong field of runners in the BM70 over 2040m. Hitting the track for his second start this preparation, trainer Aaron Purcell is pleased with his progress since his injury layoff. He strips fitter from last start at Sandown and we look forward to him working to the line strongly once more.
Our feature runner for the weekend is last season’s Group 1 New Zealand Derby winner Vin de Dance who heads to New Plymouth for the Group 3 Taranaki Cup. Trainers Murray Baker and Andrew Forsman are pleased with his progress after two successful trials and an exhibition gallop. A tough test over 1800m, he will need to prove his ability to make the grade as a prominent stayer in future races.
To Australia on Saturday we have Fastnet Latina stepping out for Archie Alexander in the BM84 over a mile at Caulfield. Running over the same distance as his eye catching finish at the same track two starts ago, we look forward to seeing this horse hitting his straps down the straight again.
Mantastic also heads to Caulfield to start in the BM84 Handicap over 1400m. His first start this preparation after a brief spell, he carries 60kgs and jumps from barrier 10 in a field of 14. A horse that runs well fresh and was unplaced in all but one start last preparation, the race looks to be a good starting point this campaign.
Best of luck to each of their connections this weekend!
