Algernon to stake his claim
Star- studded line- up has the makings of a classic encounter
LIGHTLY raced gelding Algernon has the chance to stake his claim as one of the best three- year- olds in the state when he steps out in the $ 100,000 3YO Cup over 1200 metres in Launceston on Wednesday night.
The race has attracted a star- studded field of 10 and includes three of last season’s top two- year- olds and a host of three- year- olds that have shone this season.
Algernon has started twice for two impressive wins at Elwick, the latest in a 3YO handicap over 1000m in which he defeated four of half the field he meets tonight.
The Imogen Miller- trained gelding has been impressive, and his rider Brendon McCoull says it is difficult to assess his chances tonight.
“Last start was a big step up in class and he handled it well,” McCoull said.
“He’s been a really good horse for Imogen ( Miller) because she bred him, and we liked him from day one.
“He is a very athletic horse that has been well educated and he has done everything right in his two starts and deserves his place in this race.”
McCoull says the gelded
son of Wordsmith is very laid back.
“Nothing seems to faze this horse and while he has taken to racing like a seasoned professional he still has to deal with travelling to Launceston, and then racing at night under lights,” he said.
“You can never tell how they will handle all that goes on at a night meeting, but if he deals with it he is a serious winning chance.”
The 3YO Cup prizemoney was doubled this season to $ 100,000, so every trainer and owner who had a sprinter in
the age group was hoping to have a runner in the race.
Tonight’s race has attracted 10 final acceptors and price assessors had a battle to single out a favourite.
Apart from Algernon, last season’s 2YO of the year Gee Gee Josie is likely to vie for favouritism along with Le Cadeau and Warrior Prince.
Add in- form filly Thunberg and we have the makings of a classic race. Scott Brunton earmarked the 3YO Cup as one of Thunberg’s missions and he only decided last week to pay up for Reite Den Blitz.