25 October 2022 | HRNSW MEDIA | MICHAEL COURT
ALTHOUGH he has a bigger target to focus on in coming days Peter Russo is still hoping for success at Club Menangle this afternoon.
Thanks to his impressive semi-final victory last weekend, quality youngster Mahomes booked a berth in Saturday night’s Group One Breeders’ Challenge Final at the world-class venue.
Consistently proving himself among the best of his crop, the Australian Pacing Gold purchase covered the mile in 1:51.7 to take his record for the season to eight wins and a second from 10 starts.
Thrilled with the three-year-old’s latest performance, Russo is less than pleased with Mahomes’ draw – barrier 10.
“I have never had a horse with worse luck in barriers,” said Russo.
“They have been cruel to him and the Final is no exception.
“That said, he has been winning from those bad draws and as Jack (Trainor, driver) said, ‘it’s only a number’.
“This is his biggest test of the year and he will know he is in a battle on the night.”
As for his more immediate engagements, Russo will be represented by Red Trix (Race 5) and El Aguila (Race 9), with the former also drawn gate 10!
“She is outside the draw at the moment, so the barrier is her own fault,” Russo said.
“She did a bit wrong last week but was still good first-up.
“On her sectionals she ran an enormous half, which shows what she is capable of, but for now I want to see her do everything right.”
Faring slightly better in barrier five, El Aguila is capable of soaring if on his best behaviour, according to Russo.
Spanish for ‘The Eagle’, El Aguila was a handy second at Club Menangle three starts ago but has been found wanting during his two subsequent outings.
“He’s been up and down and his form is a bit patchy,” Russo said.
“He’s got the speed to lead and going off his work I’m confident he will run a good race, but there are two of him and you don’t know which one will turn up.
“If he puts it all together, he will be in the finish.”
Meanwhile Inter Dominion-winning reinsman Josh Gallagher could open with the first two winners at Menangle today . . . and admits he loves nothing more than driving a talented square-gaiter.
Aldebaran Jensen (Race 1) and Tiger Tee (Race 2) will both start close to favourite in their respective races.
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