This Friday at Addington marks the return of some smart 3YOs spread across the ten-race programme.
The Vivace Investments Mobile Pace features Spirit Of Tupelo, the Regan Todd-trained daughter of Star Hungry who finished fourth in the Southland Oaks last start and has impressed in two trials since. A handy draw of five should see her in the firing line throughout, with her biggest threat likely to come from fellow 3YO Giorgio Denario. The John Morrison-trained and driven son of Captain Crunch has been a trial winner since last racing in May, won on debut at Ashburton during Cup Week, and looks to have a bright future ahead of him. Hardest for that pair to beat could be Mickey Holler (2), who despite missing a placing last time, had previously won impressively over the smart Ringleader.
The Thermo King Mobile has a similar feel, with Captain Tyron returning first-up after winning three races on the bounce – including a last-start 1:52.6 mile at Nelson in January. Also by Captain Crunch and trained by the Diamond Racing team, he was a recent trial winner at Rangiora, defeating the talented Wag Star. Regular pilot John Dunn takes the reins from a wide front row barrier (8), but on what this horse has shown to date, that may not be enough to stop him. Also resuming is the Steve and Amanda Telfer-trained Spicey Lou (11), who finished third in the Southern Supremacy at his last start. With just the one trial under his belt he may improve with the run, but was eye-catching when zooming up the passing lane to beat Spirit Of Tupelo at the trials.