16 August 2022 | HRNSW MEDIA | PAUL COURTS
HARNESS racing’s premier track Club Menangle will resemble San Antonio today.
With heats of a Sales Series being conducted during the afternoon, a large force of ‘Mexicans’ will converge on the world class venue ready for war.
And just like the famed battle of The Alamo, the invading army will adopt an ‘El Degüello’ philosophy as no mercy will be shown to locals.
Four qualifiers – one for trotters and three for pacers – are on the card, with 15 stables from south of the Murray heading over the border vying for a berth in the Finals.
Among the raiders is multiple Sydney premiership winner, David Aiken, who has been located in Victoria for more than a decade.
Aiken, who recently made public his battle with prostate cancer in hope of raising awareness for the cause, will be represented by Deewhy in the second heat for two-year-old colts and geldings.
Third upon debut on June 14, Deewhy was then an unlucky sixth from a wide draw at his subsequent start.
Given a short break, the son of Downbytheseaside had a solid trial at Menangle last week.
Again drawn awkwardly in barrier five, Deewhy is among the outsiders as Petracca heads betting markets at $1.25 and is the only runner under double-figure odds!
Drawn to lead throughout from barrier two, Petracca boasts three wins and a third from four starts, with his latest triumph coming at Tabcorp Park Melton on June 18.
The two-year-old will be joined by his Emma Stewart-trained stablemate, First Responder, which will begin from gate nine and is considered the biggest threat at $10.
Stewart also has Major Celebrity in the opening qualifier, with the son of Art Major drawn barrier seven.
Winner of his two starts, Major Celebrity is one of three unbeaten runners in the field.
Captain Hammerhead has also won his two outings, while Our Vinnie made a successful debut in Bendigo a fortnight ago.
Our Vinnie is the $2.25 favourite, with Major Celebrity on the second line of betting at $4.
Captain Hammerhead has been kept safe at $15 from the pole.
Approved By Dean Baring www.harnessbred.com
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