By Adam Hamilton
Chris Alford has moved on from the disappointment of Lennytheshark’s bad barrier and can’t wait for a rematch with his arch-rival Smolda.
The pair has enjoyed a stirring rivalry, especially over the past 13 months, and are fighting it out for both favouritism and victory in Saturday night’s $500,000 Group 1 Hunter Cup (2760m) at Melton.
Smolda holds a 3-1 head-to-head advantage, but Alford is confident of pulling one back this week.
“I take a lot of heart from Lenny getting as close to Smolda as he did at Ballarat last time … Lenny was only about 80 per cent fit and coming off that hoof problem,” Alford said.
“I loved his last 50m, the way he really hit the line strongly.
“Sure I’d have liked a better draw this week, but knowing how much Lenny has improved since Ballarat, I think we can beat Smolda anyway.
“It helps that Smolda is drawn the back row as well. He won’t be able to get it all his own way in front like he did at Ballarat.”
Despite Alford’s upbeat approach, the Aussie TAB punters keep plonking their cash on Smolda to continue the Mark Purdon juggernaut.
Smolda (gate nine) has firmed from $3.20 to $2.20 since Tuesday night’s barrier draw, while Lennytheshark (13) has eased from $3.20 to $3.80.
The other firmer has been last week’s Victoria Cup third placegetter Bling It On ($5 into $4.80) from gate five.
Here is Alford’s take on his other drives on Hunter Cup night:
QUEEN OF POP (R2, n2): She’s racing well and is very honest. She’s got her chance from the draw in an open race.
MILLY PEREZ (R3, n11 – Ladyship Cup): She’s absolutely flying, but it’s going to be hard from the draw. If it’s truly run, she will be finishing strongly.
OUR LITTLE GENERAL (R4, n2 – Chris Alford): I thought his run was good being first-up into a Derby heat last week. He’s got the speed to use the draw, but a lot will depend on how petrol we have to use early.
HIGH GAIT (R7, n2): She should be back to her best after two good runs from a spell. She’s drawn well and she’s look the hardest to beat along with Glenferrie Burn.
BEACH BOY ADIOS (R10, n1): He’s racing well and is at least a place chance, especially if I can hold leader’s back behind Maximan over the short trip. Have Faith In Me will obviously be hard to beat.
Approved By Dean Baring www.harnessbred.com
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