St Arnaud
Race 7 – Pittsburgh Pirate
Jockey – Neil Farley
2000m – Barrier 8
Last start winner Pittsburgh Pirate takes on the 2000-metre St Arnaud Cup this afternoon. The gelded son of Pierro controlled proceedings throughout at Benalla four weeks ago, kicking clear in the home straight before registering his fourth career win. Jockey Neil Farley has been on board for three of those victories and leaves from barrier eight today, looking to roll across early and find a position outside or just behind the speed heading into the back.
Speed is good in this, with Dubai Moon and Commander Harry likely to push forward from their outside draws, while Avoca Cup winner Any Luck can boot through from the middle and enjoy a lovely trail from the outset. Commander Harry should’ve finished closer in last weekend’s Horsham Cup, held up for the majority of the home straight and never getting a crack when he had something to give. He’s unlikely to tell a similar tale from the outside gate today, and even luck in running sees him as hardest to beat. Cadazio won the Gunbower Cup two starts back before a plain effort in the Manangatang Cup a fortnight ago. You Betcha Woo won that event. Both with each way claims. Any Luck is racing well, back to a firmer surface the query with her, while Jaz Tycoon mixes his form but is up to this on best efforts. Not much surprises here.
Pittsburgh Pirate has the ability to win a race like this, and with a kinder draw you’d expect him to do just that. He’ll need luck in the early parts to find his position in running, but if he doesn’t spend too many tickets early, he must be considered a strong chance to take this one out.
Currently, Pittsburgh Pirate is a $3.50 chance in the market.