Ararat
Race 7 – Pittsburgh Pirate
Jockey – Neil Farley
2000m – Barrier 9
In-form galloper Pittsburgh Pirate is shooting for three on the trot when he takes on the Ararat Cup this afternoon. The gelded son of Pierro backed up his win at Benalla two starts back with a gutsy victory in the St Arnaud Cup, staying at 2000-metres for today’s contest. Jockey Neil Farley is building an excellent record on the five-year-old (9:4-0-2) and can roll forward from an outside draw here, looking to land near the speed heading into the back.
Sky Out will boot through from underneath Pittsburgh Pirate and look to hold the front passing the winning post for the first time, while Lottaroc and Cadre Du Noir to settle in the first half of the field from inside draws. Expecting Grand Pierro to bounce back after a non-event at Kyneton on Wednesday. He was working into the race before clipping heels and almost falling, being eased out of the race in the home straight. He won this race last year and can go close again here. One of the main hopes. Lottaroc was a brave third in the Horsham Cup three weeks ago, finishing over a length in front of Commander Harry. That horse ran second to Pittsburgh Pirate at St Arnaud a fortnight back. He’ll give his usual honest effort. Pesto has been thereabouts in metropolitan grade of late, no surprise to see him go close here. Doesn’t win often though. Concede an each way chance to Staunch, who was within four lengths of Knight’s Choice in the Bendigo Cup last time out. That horse has run well since…
Pittsburgh Pirate is racing in terrific fashion and should be able to find his position at the front of the field without spending too many tickets. He’s fit and full of confidence, and if he turns for home in front, he’ll take a power of running down. Strong hattrick claims.
Currently, Pittsburgh Pirate is a $4.20 chance in the market.