Crackpot not a crazy bet
IT is a huge disappointment that the Wedgewood Handicap attracted only seven runners, but Crackpot can make up for it by beating three strong newcomers at Fairview tomorrow.
Princess Varunya (Gavin Smith), Northern Ballet and Tiffendell (both Justin Snaith) will make their Fairview debuts but that could find Crackpot a hard nut to crack over 2 400m.
Crackpot, who is carded to have JP van der Merwe in the saddle for the Smith yard, is a seven-time winner from 43 starts and has been in top form lately. She defeated Bonne Vie by 0,50 lengths on May 29 before running second and third behind Peach Delight and Beat-about-the-bush respectively.
Her run behind Beat-about-the-bush is especially noteworthy as she stayed on over the 1 600m trip. This extra 800m could suit her.
Northern Ballet, who will have Richard Fourie in the saddle, also deserves respect. She won four of her 18 starts and is in good form. Northern Ballet is also 5kg better off this time, making her a big danger.
Tiffindell is only a one-time winner from 10 outings, but cannot be underestimated. The daughter of Silvano is a consistent sort and must have a massive chance with only 52kg on the back. Ryan Munger will be in the saddle.
Alan Greeff’s Pirangi is the dark horse in the race. She is consistent and only carries 52kg.
She was pulling and switched in her last outing, but was not disgraced when finishing 4,75 lengths behind Peach Delight three weeks ago.
In the final analysis the vote goes to Crackpot to beat Northern Ballet, Tiffendell and Pirangi.
The card looks tricky, especially the second leg of the Pick 6.
South Atlantic, Rippit Whippet, Galadriel and Lovar could fight it out for top honours and anyone of them could win the scramble to the finishing line.
Race 5 is full of quality speedsters, but either Tevez or Captain Alfredo could pull it off. However, Kingvoldt, Seattle Singer, Pacific Spirit and Vous Et Var will not go down without a fight.
The meeting starts at 1245 with a Maiden Plate over 2000m. Tara Laing debutant Colorado Rose seems to be the proverbial good thing.