THE?46th Anniversary Of Independence Handicap at the Garrison Savannah today is more than a headliner as the performances of at least five horses will be closely monitored with next year’s Gold Cup still four months off.
The entries for the 1 800 metres race for three-year-old and older horses rated 100-120 and also horses 99 and below are: Discreetwon, Little Man Arran, Daga, Aristodemus and Kendal Moon.
With his light weight and a good rider, the chances of Discreetwon look awesome. He has steadily made a name for himself after showing much promise in his two-year-old season. He has catapulted into the limelight with back-to-back victories at varying distances.
After reeling off six consecutive victories Daga has now gone over a year without revisiting the winner’s enclosure. She, however, has shown flashes of returning to her best in some of those starts. She is a very talented filly and despite the top impost has experience on her side and looks a valuable option.
Little Man Arran has been on top of his game ever since his dismal showing in last year’s Gold Cup. He has reeled off three wins from his last four starts and is expected to be around at the finish.
Aristodemus took advantage of the handicapper’s generosity by helping himself to his second career success when taking the UI Management Inc. Trophy Handicap over 1 570 metres. He is well bred and will want to justify the belief that he is Gold Cup material.
Kendal Moon’s performances against the leading creoles – Apostle, Show Me The Money and Zoom – indicate that she has not reached their level but should still be good enough to rub shoulders with most in today’s race.
The connections of the improving A.P. Vincero should be pleased with his two second places on his return from injury. A dynamic run here should enhance his prospects.
Erados has so far endured a dream run of form and can’t be ignored but place possibilities seem his best option. Captain Sully, at his best, will carry this field on a tour of the circuit. In the past Fusaichi Ridge has shown she can perform within this company and this race could be a defining moment for her status going forward.
Lady Quill will seek to take advantage of this penny stamp but may find the assignment a bit far fetching. Charge It has done absolutely nothing to give fans a ray of hope.
My picks
Race 1: Ocean Storm;Race 2: Foxy Browne; Race 3: Janak’s Gold;Race 4: Dipitinmoney; Race 5: Nomoreginrog;Race 6: Spellbound; Race 7: Discreetwon; Race 8: Wild Fire