OTI’s contingent of runners this weekend contains a number of solid chances.
Following a frustrating result last start, which was described by his trainer as a ‘wasted’ effort, Dark Pearl will be looking to bounce back at Sandown (UK) overnight. This four-year-old gelding is a quality stayer and expected to relish the 2800m trip.
Up in Sydney, the Matthew Smith trained Plymouth Road will be aiming to make it two in a row following a convincing win over the same journey two weeks ago. The predicted heavy track conditions will pose no problem for this son of Tavistock and the stable believe he’ll be the one to beat.
At Flemington, Gregorian Chant will be seeking some black type in just her third career start. After a most promising debut at Moonee Valley, she was too strong for her opposition in winning at Bendigo over 1400m three weeks ago. She now seems very placed to build her credentials and pedigree page in tomorrow’s 1600m Listed race for 2yos. A good showing will help firm up her plans for the Melbourne Spring.
Joining Gregorian Chant at Flemington tomorrow will be Grey Lion, who runs in the 2600m Banjo Paterson Series Final. This fellow has been consistent this preparation and deserves a win. Matt Cumani believes the gelding will be in the finish.
Our Saturday will be rounded out with Azuro, who heads to South Australia for his second Australian start. The Weir stable report that this French import has been working well, but will need tomorrow’s run and should take great benefit from it.
Best of luck to our partners!
