By Mac Henry
Because Dexter Dunn is a serial multiple-winner, it usually goes without saying that wherever and whenever he competes, he’s the driver to follow. Although the one win he got at Ascot Park last Thursday appeared underwhelming, adding in the three seconds, three thirds and a fourth, provides a better prospective.
At Invercargill on Monday, he’s driving three of the same horses and the chances of him converting one or two of those minor placings into wins looks high.
First chance comes in The Invercargill Cup Day 30th January Pace aboard Ideal Denario. The filly has started just twice, Dunn has been aboard both times and they missed by just half a neck to catch Bettor Enforce at the 14 January meeting after taking time to get a clear run.
In four goes on Spotlight The Valley, Dunn’s record is a win, second, third and fifth. He drives the four year old in the Invercargill Workouts Committee Trot and they come up against the well-related and equally talented I’lldoitmyway, who should win.
The small field on the 14 January was well spread out and Spotlight The Valley a margin from the winner when third. Monday’s field, though bigger, is of similar quality and that’s when the Dunn advantage comes into play.
Mighty Flying Deal led and gave up on 14 January. Dunn is aboard again in the Regent Car Court Mobile. He won on him on the track in December but on Monday, others hold more appeal.
Dunn has more good chances beginning in the Fotosouth Claimers with Kate Jackson. He has driven the horse twice before for a win and a fourth. In her first start since November Kate Jackson finished third at Wyndham on Tuesday. She emerged from the pack on straightening and although some distance from the winner, found the line strongly.
Tony Barron trains This Excuse is Fine. She has had three starts with Barron’s brother Clark in the sulky each time. The most recent was at Wyndham on Tuesday.
Before the end of 800 metres, the outside tyre had come off the rim and the four year old was retired from the race. Dunn gets the call-up this week in the Book A Mini Marquee On Cup Day mobile and although they’ll go from the outside of the second line, have the credentials to win.
He has never been on Platinum Princess before but gets aboard for the Kelvin Hotel Mobile. She was driven by Kimberley Butt when she raced on 14 January, sat four back on the poles and suffered a terminal check across the top.
With a handy front-line draw on Monday, the winner of four is back in C1 for the first time for many starts and that, plus the Dunn factor, makes her a top prospect.
Approved By Dean Baring www.harnessbred.com
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