Duchess will be in charge at Durbanville

Drakenstein Stud look set to enjoy Saturday at Durbanville, as they race a couple of three-year-old fillies they have bred, who appear the two best bets on the card.

Both appear in Maiden Plates for fillies over 1250m, and first up is Queensbarns in Race 2. This wellbred daughter of deceased Kingsbarns went off in the red on debut but was touched off by Tiger Roll in a desperate finish.

Admittedly, that didn’t look the strongest of fields at the time, but the winner did go very close in her post-maiden appearance.

You can expect good improvement from Justin Snaith’s charge and with a good draw, she should be exiting the maiden ranks.

Ryanair was third first time out and seems the likeliest threat, along with Labyrinth.

But Candice Bass-Robinsontrained Duchess Of State in Race 3 looks an even better wagering opportunity. She was very green in her opening appearance at Kenilworth but finished extremely strongly to get within 0.50 lengths of Athalia. Third-placed Victoria Tower then came out on top against previous winners to frank the form.

Jumping from pole position is a big help as she goes around the bend for the first time and she does look to have the beating of this field.

Linda Loves Lace, Orferd’s Flash and Fynbos appear most likely to give cheek.

For those seeking an Eachway value bet, Lip Service in Race 7 appeals. This Joey Ramsden-trained filly scored her only win at this track and the poor display in her latest run can be ignored as she raced wide throughout from a horrible draw at Kenilworth.

She can finish off well on her day and, if produced at the right time by Donovan Dillon ihe will go close.

But this looks a tricky little affair and among others the two Snaithtrained three-year-olds Captain’s Darling and Casino Queen have strong claims.

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