Crawford and Snaith to renew rivalry
Prepare to jump up and down and scream at five minutes past four today when Super Silvano and Silver Host renew their rivalry at Kenilworth in Race 8, the Grade 3 Kuda Variety Club Mile.
The last time these two met was in the Grade 1 Cape Derby at the end of February, when the Brett Crawford-trained Super Silvano got the bronze medal, finishing two lengths ahead of Justin Snaith-trained Silver Host.
Before that, on the first Saturday in February, it was Silver Host who took top honours in the Grade 3 Politician Stakes, with Super Silvano having to settle for the silver medal, two lengths behind.
According to Crawford, Super Silvano has everything to not only beat his arch-rival again today, but to also claim the proverbial gold medal.
“There’s a bit of a weight turnaround now from last time they met,” Crawford said yesterday. “We are 2.5 kilos better off if I’m not mistaken.
“My horse is doing well. I’m very happy with him. He looks great. Obviously as far as fitness goes, I’ve done as much as I possibly can under the conditions.
“He’s in good form and I’m expecting a good run from him. He’s versatile over a mile.”
Obviously, there’s not a lot between the two runners, but according to Crawford today’s distance counts in his runner’s favour.
Another interesting Crawford/ Snaith contest is set for Race 4, a Pinnacle Stakes over 1500m.
Snaith saddles three runners – Nexus, Love Happens and Esteemal, while Crawford is represented by Shamrock Wind and Water Spirit.
Water Spirit’s record shows that she is a frontrunner, not afraid to take the lead and set the pace. But she is not there to pave the way, so to speak, for Shamrock Wind today.
“Water Spirit is there to run the best that she can – and win if she can,” said Crawford yesterday.
“I put the claimer on because I think it will suit her,” he added, referring to apprentice Joshwin Solomons who will be in the saddle.
“She comes into the race now bottom weight with only 50kg on her back. She’s been doing really well and I think you have to respect her. She definitely has a good Eachway chance.
“She’s ultra consistent and I think she is improving as she’s getting older.
“She comes off good form lines. With that nice light galloping weight – as long as the appy rides a good race - we can expect a good run from her,” Crawford said.