Ben-hur to fight off rivals
THE combination of trainer Candice Bass-Robinson and jockey Craig Zackey could prosper at Fairview tomorrow when Ben-hur steps out in Race 4, a MR 89 Divided Handicap over 1 600m.
Ben-hur, a four-year-old son of Judpot, ran a respectable third behind Man Bout Town in his last outing, at Kenilworth, finishing 2.70 lengths behind the winner and should make further improvement. Zackey retains the ride on the two-time winner from 19 starts.
Ben-hur could get involved in a tussle with Alan Greeff-trained Green Lantern, who will have Greg Cheyne aboard.
Green Lantern won his last race, defeating Valentine’s Girl by 1.75 lengths, and is in great form. The five-year-old comes into the race looking for a sixth career victory.
Story Of My Life could also show up in the finish, jumping from pole position. He is 5.5kg better off than last time, when he made late progress over 1600m and finished third behind Border Control. Muzi Yeni is once again in the saddle.
Prospect Strike is another in with a money chance, carrying 5.5kg less than he did last time, for trainer Grant Paddock and owners Greg Blank and Larry Nestadt.
The race is even wider open than that. Lord Marshal can win on his day, Wish To Land should not be underestimated, while punters overlook Frikkie at their peril.
Another massive duel is on the cards in Race 2, the Breeders Guineas Plate for three-year-old fillies.
Klever Kathy, Madame Speaker, March Music and Western Angel have enough form about them to keep punters on their toes.
The first race is off at 12:10.