A non black-type staying feature on the turf at Fairview today heads the national racing programme on a weekend devoid of any stakes races. The 2400m R100 000 Lakeside Handicap looks tailor-made for Justin Snaith’s Go Deputy colt, Arezzo.
Arezzo – could be in front again
The Go Deputy progeny have taken the lead set by Gauteng Guineas hero and Triple Crown aspirant Abashiri and have been winning all over the country.
Arezzo certainly looks capable of continuing the trend and the 2015 Listed Settlers Trophy winner may just carry too many guns for the local soldier Drill Sargeant.
Drill Sargeant – soldier of the staying ranks
Arezzo was a facile winner of his last start over the Fairview 1800m where he came home by 5,75 lengths beating Big Freeze. That showed his wellbeing and based on his only previous try over Friday’s course and distance, when a reasonable fourth behind St Tropez in the East Cape Derby last term, he looks a decent prospect here.
Tara Laing’s 7yo Drill Sargeant is likely to be his major opponent and the 13 time winner never runs a bad race.
The son of Dynasty stays all day but was beaten 2,25 lengths by Oh So Modus over the course and distance at his last outing. He now meets the same runner at 2,5kgs worse terms – so technically should be held again.
Renate du Plessis trained Oh So Modus is a one-paced perpetual motion galloping machine who is a difficult fellow to peg back.
The six-time winner stays well on both surfaces and is a fit hardknocker, who won’t lie down without a rumble.
Political Playboy – tries ground and is always a player!
The one-eyed Australian-bred Politiical Playboy won his last start in good style over a mile but has never won over this type of ground. He has a touch of class about him and could surprise from the in-form Mckenzie yard.
Another horse who stays is the well travelled Putney Flyer – a fellow who has been around the block.
Putney Flyer – light weight
He meets Oh So Modus on 1,5 kgs better terms after a 1,75 length course and distance third last time and could improve further with his handy galloping weight.
Zoo Biscuit may need a run after a 22 week break and seems more effective on the polytrack.
King Jace appears to be battling after being a fair placegetter in KZN, where he was based with Garth Puller.
The Barbadian was placed over the trip last time in lower company but will have to improve further to feature.
Former Joey Ramsden stayer Dandyman Can has not earned in ages and at 8 may be past his best.
Arezzo is the choice to continue the Snaith victory march and he should be good enough to hold Drill Sargeant and Oh So Modus.
