The smaller yards should play big roles on Monday’s race meeting at Greyville where they race on the Polytrack.
Paul Lafferty’s yard has been in good form and Frank Robinson has also been sending out well priced winners.
Specially Selected has been costly to follow but he looks to have met a promising individual in Passage Of Power and was beaten just 0.15 lengths in his comeback after a six-month layoff.
Add to that the popular pointer that Duke Of Marmalade progeny seem to love the poly and he really stands out against a moderate field.
He should open his account in Race 1, a Maiden Plate over 1000m.
In Race 5, another Maiden Plate but over the 1200m, could see two of the more humble yards scrap it out. Darryl Moore’s Alma Mater may finally get it right – he usually shows all the pace in the world only to hand over the lead late – but this is where Frank Robinson’s Without Doubt can capitalise.
Robinson did well to freshen up his gelding over 1400m who was an eye-catching third after an embattled run over 2000m. Without Doubt can exit the maiden ranks in his 15th start as there is no one in the race who can boast his finish, and he has drawn ideally in gate No 3.
Robinson’s best could be Leslies Pathtofame though. The Pathfork gelding is a specialist over 1200m on the poly and the last time he raced over the trip was six runs back which he won in good style. He ran a cracker over 1000m last time so has prepped perfectly and has secured a plum draw so should have every chance.
He runs in Race 6, a MR 68 Handicap.
Ralph The Rascal returns to his best track and trip in the main race of the day, Race 7, a MR 83 Handicap over 1400m. He turned in a fair performance at Scottsville when reportedly not enjoying the longer distance there, so with full fitness on his side he could be the best prepped runner in the race.
Clive Robinson
