Flying Finley has gone from strength to strength this season and looks capable of taking another step up when he contests Race 8, a competitive 1000m sprint at Hollywoodbets Durbanville on Saturday.
Trainer Paul Reeves has placed the son of Oratorio to perfection and a two-month break should hold no fears. Flying Finley has thrived fresh in the past, while Keagan de Melo, who boasts two wins and a second from three rides aboard him, retains the partnership. His latest victory over Gold Giboski has worked out well after that rival scored impressively at Durbanville, suggesting the five-point ratings rise may not stop Flying Finley from remaining competitive.
Sardinia Bay is a major threat. Although he has not shown his best recently, he excels at Durbanville and is unbeaten in three starts at the course. Richard Fourie takes the ride, and the return to this venue over 1000m could spark a revival. Elusive Winter is another specialist over the trip and should appreciate the likely firmer conditions. Sifiso Bungane’s 2.5kg claim also boosts his chances. Last-start winner Un Bel Di cannot be overlooked if the strong early pace sets the race up for his finishing burst.
Lucinda Woodruff holds leading chances earlier on the card. Senorita Lolita made an encouraging debut when runner-up to Dream Trip over 1200m at Kenilworth and, from gate two in Race 1, looks capable of going one better.
Woodruff also saddles Winterworldoflove in Race 2. Well bred and expected to improve with racing, she finished a promising third on debut in testing conditions. With Callan Murray taking over, she rates one of the day’s better bets.
Race 3 looks a match between Ready For The Road and Masteronthemoon. Ready For The Road finished half a length ahead of his rival when they last met and, with little to separate them, he is narrowly preferred.
Mighty Mary can go close in Race 4 after an excellent second behind Cutie Patootie over 1500m at Kenilworth. Although returning from a break, Vaughan Marshall’s runners are usually well prepared. Vroom Vroom looks the biggest danger.
Race 5 is more open, but Mon Papillon appeals after an improved second over 1600m at this course despite a difficult draw. Richard Fourie rides for Paul Reeves.
Lyrical Gangster has finished runner-up at his last two starts and should be competitive again in Race 6, while lightly raced Another Hero is an interesting runner with little weight.
Heritage Ridge can complete a double for Michelle Rix in Race 7. She produced one of the standout wins of the winter when overcoming a wide trip to score over this course and distance last month. Returning to the same track and trip under Gareth Wright, she looks the one to beat.
