Kingston Mines to retain Glenlair Trophy
Alan Greeff-trained Kingston Mines, who was up to the task last time when carrying 61kg at Fairview, has a bright chance to complete the double at the same venue today when teamed up with Greg Cheyne again and carrying 60kg in Race 7, the Glenlair Trophy (Listed) over 3200m.
This feature is Leg 4 of the Pick 6 which has a Carryover of R200,000 and is estimated to reach a pool of R1-million.
That Pinnacle Stakes win was not out of turn as three runs earlier the combination had finished second in a 2400m Pinnacle contest and followed up with a game 0.50--length third in a 2200m Conditions Plate. Sandile Khathi had the ride in the seven-yearold gelding’s next outing when unplaced, but that run can be excused as there was a report that he was not striding out freely.
However, when reunited with Cheyne in his subsequent outing the seasoned campaigner confirmed his current wellbeing – snatching victory in a 2400m Pinnacle Stakes. Cheyne knows exactly what is required as the combination won this race decisively last year.
But expect a bold bid from Chase Maujean’s mount Plano (53.5kg) out of Tara Laing’s stable. This three-time winner comes off two bright runs. Despite not having a trouble-free run, he ran on to finish a 1.75-length second in a feature event over 2200m. Then unruly at the start in a 12-strong Pinnacle Stakes he flashed up from last to claim a 1.35-length third over 2400m.
Also to be respected is former Gauteng six-year-old The Elmo Effect (58kg) who makes his local debut with Muzi Yeni aboard for the in-form Gavin Smith stable. This six-time winner will like this big step down in class after competing in feature events at Turffontein in his last four starts.
In with claims as well is Western Cape raider Paddington (Charles Ndlovu) from Joey Ramsden’s stable. This four-year-old two-time winner has finished in the money in his last five outings, the last of which was a 0.50-length second in a MR 75 Handicap at Kenilworth over 2500m. The gelding spells danger carrying only 52kg and starting from pole position. Next best are Grandissimo, Shady World and Eastern Pearl – all of whom carry 52kg.
Today’s suggested TAB Quartet bet is in Race 2: Go for (1) San Rochelle and (11) Rebel Wilson as double floating bankers with 2, 7, 8, 9, 12 and 13. The cost of the permutation is R360 – but a 10% (R36) bet is an option!