THERE are already 170 reasons to head to Sunday’s Australian Pacing Gold Sale, but if you want more numbers here’s a pair – Three and 10.
The original figure represents the Lots in the Sydney catalogue, which breaks down to 161 pacers and nine trotters.
A further dissection of the numbers reveals 96 desirable pacing and five trotting colts, with the balance consisting of 65 well-bred pacing and four trotting fillies.
As for the ‘three’, that’s how many pacing Group Ones will be contested at Club Menangle on Saturday night.
Headlining the stellar card is Australasia’s premier sprint – the Miracle Mile – which is amply supported by the New South Wales Derby and Ainsworth Free-For-All.
Then there is the ‘10’, which is not a Bo Derek reference!
What it does represent is how many APG purchases are engaged in the three majors.
Mach Dan, Expensive Ego and Bondi Lockdown are chasing glory in the $1million Garrards Miracle Mile, with each attracting support in betting markets despite tough draws.
In fact, even from nine – a barrier from which no Miracle Mile contender has managed to win – Bondi Lockdown has been the best backed runner to beat the favourite and reigning champion, King Of Swing.
It’s interesting to note the only other two Australian-bred starters in the Grand Circuit gem are owned by their breeders.
The Derby consists of 10 starters, with APG graduates completing half the field.
Group One winner My Ultimate Byron will be joined by early favourite, Leap To Fame, Lightning Dan, Captain Ravishing and Tims A Trooper.
Last, but not least, is the Ainsworth Free-For-All where multiple Group One winner Max Delight and Miracle Mile emergency, Jay Ok, will be in the thick of action.
APG wishes the connections of all Group One runners the best of luck.
- PAUL COURTS
Approved By Dean Baring www.harnessbred.com
Driving The Future Of Harness Racing
