Here are Mike’s runner comments for the meeting at Turffontein, Saturday.
Race 1, 1200m: “We have two in the race. Warbonnet Creek has disappointed us in his runs so far, but he has shown some improvement at home and has a place chance. Sylvan Theater had his first run last week, he finished just four-and-a-half lengths off the winner, needing the experience. He got tired late. I am running him quickly again, which is not ideal, but he has come on in the days since that run and he’s well drawn, so should be in the shake-up.
Race 3, 1200m: “Union Square is a decent horse, we’ve always thought highly of him and we have some plans for him. He comes off a rest and is drawn widest in this field, which doesn’t help. He will improve for this run and wants a bit further.”
Race 4, 1800m: “We were looking for a good run from Lilliana last time, she ran unplaced but you can draw a line trough that run. If you watch the replay, there is no need for comment. Include her in your play, she should be competitive and has an eachway chance.
Race 5, 1800m: “Ultra Magnus continues to disappoint, we’ve tried him in sprints and over ground and nothing much is happening. Trying even further here, an 1800m contest and hoping for improvement, but perhaps his rating needs to drop down to a more competitive level before we’ll see better from him again.”
Race 6, 1800m: “Pinky Levine won a good Maiden handicap last time, in her place. She is capable of backing it up, not to be left out of anything.”
Race 7, 1500m: “Forever Mine looks course and distance suited but has a very tough task from a 14 draw in the field. Motown Magic is a decent sort, but he’s coming off a long break and this is too short. He will need the run.”
Race 8, 1500m: “We expected better from Run As One last time, but he’s not back at his best competitive level just yet, needs to drop a few pounds in the ratings before we can get there again.”
Race 9, 1450m: “Destiny Of Souls got his tongue over the bit in the BSA Sales Cup two weeks ago and we’re fitting him with a tongue tie this time. He’s a nice horse, should run very well.”
