The stable trek over the border with two first-up runners for Christmas eve racing.
Murray Bridge
Race 7 – Kasami
Jockey – Mitch Aitken
900m – Barrier 2
Five-year-old sprinter Kasami returns today following a six month break from competitive racing. Murray Bridge will hold fond memories for her connections – the daughter of Shooting To Win broke her maiden here back in January to kick-start her successful four-year-old preparation. Henry Dwyer’s mare has trialled up well for today’s race, her last jumpout at Avoca suggesting she is ready to fire first-up in SA today. Mitch Aitken has drawn perfectly in gate two and will be positive from the outset, his mount’s natural speed will be key in a race that will be run at helter-skelter pace. Chosen Blonde comes back in grade from two sound runs at Moonee Valley and presents as the main danger here in an open event. Kasami represents excellent value at her each way quote.
Currently, Kasami is a $9.50 chance in the market.
Race 8 – Nightstick
Jockey – Mitch Aitken
1200m – Barrier 6
Toronado gelding Nightstick races first-up this afternoon, kicking off at a suitable 1200-metre journey. The four-year-old galloper will enjoy the wide spaces of the Murray Bridge circuit and looks ready to run well following sound efforts at the jumpouts. Mitch Aitken can ride quietly from a middle draw and have plenty of horse under him to be strong in the run to the line. Trainer Henry Dwyer indicated that getting back on top of the ground will be key for this runner and he can belie what appears moderate form on paper. The market has identified Crackhorn and Test The Law as the main hopes, but chances must be given to Pontedera and Nightstick on the next line of betting.
Currently, Nightstick is an $8 chance in the market.