Enzani set to light up at Perth
THERE are a few well-kent Irish faces in the opening race at Perth this afternoon. But it’s John McConnell, a less frequent visitor, who may hold the key.
The County Meath trainer saddles the Aga Khan-bred son of Cape Cross, Enzani, whose second at Kilbeggan last time suggests he’s getting the hang of jumping.
The five-year-old proved modest on the flat despite the best efforts of Dermot Weld and John Oxx. But his lengthsecond to Dontbackme was a step forward.
He’s been off the track since April, but went well after a year out in February, and he could improve past John Monash and Knocklayde Sno Cat.
Gordon Elliott runs Tajseer for Paul and Clare Rooney in the maiden hurdle. If he can step forward from a head second at Downpatrick, he can break his duck.
There has been promise in several bumper runs and the Downpatrick event three weeks ago – when beaten in a photo by Our Dougal – was a fine hurdle debut.
Today’s race looks modest, at best, and perhaps his biggest threat is the top one, Important Moment, who has shown glimmers of promise in Irish points.
Run With The Wind, last year’s winner of the feature race, The Perth Silver Cup, runs off the same mark in a bid to follow up for Stuart Crawford.
He’s not been in such good form, though. Perhaps Elliott’s Le Grand Chene is stronger, after looking to have something in hand when a course winner 10 days ago.