Trainer Alan Greeff has a virtual lock on this year’s Listed East Cape Derby, Race 8, over 2400m at on the turf track Fairview on Friday, as he saddles six of the 11 runners and has a very strong contender in My Best Shot.
This Fire Away gelding has impressed since turning three, winning six of his last seven starts. His only defeat came on the Fairview Polytrack in October. My Best Shot is unbeaten in three starts since being gelded.
The only question mark for him in this particular race is whether he will be as effective over 2400m, having only contested – and won – races up to 1600m. A 2400m test is a very different challenge compared to 1600m.
Stable jockey Richard Fourie retains the ride but will have to overcome a wide draw in stall No 10. My Best Shot is often slowly away and tends to drop to the back early, so that scenario is likely again.
His stable companions, Master Forrester, Mister Speaker and filly Lotus Island, provide Greeff with solid backup should My Best Shot fail to see out the trip.
Master Forrester finished four lengths behind My Best Shot when they last met, but being a son of Master Of My Fate should have no trouble with the extra distance.
Mister Speaker clearly appreciated the step-up in trip when winning over 2000m last time out, although he has been well beaten by My Best Shot on three previous occasions.
Lotus Island is unbeaten in four starts in the Eastern Cape, three of those since joining Greeff. She handled 2000m with ease and should have no problem staying 2400m.
Usually, this race draws several out-of-town challengers, but this year only Justin Snaith was prepared to make the trip. And he sends out Ardabil, a two-time winner.
This Danon Platina gelding has scored over both 1600m and 1800m, and each win was convincing enough to suggest he could make his presence felt. He is likely the only genuine threat to Greeff’s runners.
As final backup, Greeff also sends out First Wish, a filly by Master Of My Fate, who has won three of her last four starts. All those wins indicated she should stay this distance comfortably, making her another one not to be completely dismissed.
