The winner of last year’s Listed Southeaster Sprint, The US Of A has been hinting that he is capable of taking the next step up the ladder. He comes into race 2 over 1200m at Hollywoodbets Kenilworth on Saturday weighted to be very effective and, if allowed to use his biggest weapon, his turn of foot, he could claim career win number six. Take note that this race could be run over 1250m around the turn, with a decision to be taken after Wednesday’s racing.
Trainer Paddy Kruyer has shrewdly placed him to utilize a pleasing swing at the weights. His last run came over 1250m at Hollywoodbets Durbanville, where he finished 2,8 lengths fourth behind Gold Giboski, carrying 51kg. He finished ahead of Dumbledore and Dance Variety and is now 1,5kg better off with both. The handicapper also gave him a two-point reduction, putting him in a lower band of this A Stakes.
Callan Murray takes the ride. The US Of A is most deadly when left alone to find his feet and power home. He does not need to be last but can switch it on and loves to run them down.
The opposition is talented, but most have reasons for not being at their peaks. Dance Variety has beaten The US Of A before, but this task looks tougher. Dreamworld showed huge ability as a two-year-old but returned from an eight-month rest last time and may need another run. Winter Snap is also likely to need the run after not being seen since December.
There is pleasing form in race 1. Red Flag improved when second behind Juliet Of Verona over 1250m and looks to be on the right track. Onthewingsofadove was a beaten favourite last time but finished second behind World Of Secrets.
Chinwag looks nailed on to win race 3 over 1600m after a fine run in the Listed Iridescence Stakes, finishing less than a length behind Grapes Of Wrath. She should get the job done under Murray for Michelle Rix.
Born To Master ran a career best when second behind Ready For The Road and will need to show that was no flash in the pan in race 4 over 1800m. Masteronthemoon was just behind him and little should separate them.
Fort Liam turned over the promising Trip To Camelot last time and could complete back-to-back wins in race 5 over 1800m, although the drop in trip is a concern.
In race 7, Major Apollo got back on track when second behind Moody Blue and looks ready to win soon. Magical Place had everything go wrong last time but represents huge value in race 8.
Ruby Rex has plenty in her favour in race 9 over 1000m. She beat William’s Woman by two lengths last time and, despite a 0,5kg deficit, should stay ahead.
