The original Grand Heritage favourite, the smart grey 4yo Mardi Gras, has dominated the news in the big race build-up in recent weeks but lines up from an 11 draw in the Grand Series leg 2 today.
Mardi Gras – can win if he beats the draw
The son of Oratorio, who makes his eighth career start, has run two fast-finishing seconds at his two starts this term – the last seeing his jockey and trainer questioned for the tactics employed when chasing Mr Flood home in an Assessment Plate at the Vaal on 4 October – read more on page xxx.
Ashley Fortune’s Tsitsikamma Dance has pulled a 4 draw and gets the blinkers fitted after winning his first start for the new yard at the end of August. While the Grand Heritage was delayed a fortnight, he now runs off a six week lapse and the connections will be hoping that he has held his game.
Ashley Fortune saddles Tsitsikamma Dance
Mike de Kock topweight Mujallad stayed on well behind the very progressive Chimichuri Run last time out and must have a chance of challenging if reproducing that kind of run – but he has drawn wide.
Zouaves is the only Geoff Woodruff runner in the field and the 5yo has maintained a distinquished line of form over an extended period of time. He ran Equus Champion Will Pays to a neck at his penultimate start in receipt of 4kgs and can up his game further to challenge.
London Secret is one of the Sean Tarry trio and, while carrying a handy galloping weight of 52kgs, she looks to need to improve on her recent form to have a shout.
The same applies to the Gokhan Terzi-trained Daffiq who has had two troubled outings at his last two jumps. He was not persevered with when beaten 6 lengths by Tsitsikamma Dance and then was lame on the near -fore after a fair effort behind Pietro Mascagni last time.
Lucky Houdalakis’ Huyssteen has performed well at the Vaal and enjoys a nominal 1,5kg swing at the weights with Full Of Attitude for a six length beating last time.
The big race combination of Muzi Yeni and Joey Soma team up with Greys Inn gelding Full Of Attitude, a consistent 4yo who could chase quartet honours. A winner of 3 of his 14 starts, he would have an undeniable money chance on best form from the 1 draw.
Last year’s winner Irish Pride
The 2016 Grand Heritage winner Irish Pride is now a 6yo and has not won for some time. The son of Ideal World is known to be a touch in-and-out though and could surprise if in the mood.
