TREVOR REID: THE MR 94 Handicap that tops the Durbanville meeting on Wednesday is aptly described as an “Open Handicap”. Nine runners contest Race 6 and it would come as no surprise to see any of them being led into the winner’s enclosure.
Gianduja has improved recently and was running on late over the Kenilworth 2000m last time to finish a 1.75-length fifth behind Crown Of Gold. The step up to 2400m should suit him. Form at this tight track is critical and Gianduja has placed three times in four starts at the venue. A good No 3 draw could see him get the run of the race.
Fellow four-year-old Born To Be Wild is a decent horse on his day and was only penalised three points for his last win. He has won races over 2400m and 2500m so he has no stamina doubts. Although Born To Be Wild has not raced at Durbanville, his front-running style should be suited to the course.
It has been more than a year since C Major last won a race but he is rarely far behind the winner and, with jockey Karl Neisius up, should be right there at the finish. C Major has won at the track. Trainer Mike Bass has his string in fine fettle and has two runners here in El Jadida and Another Giant. The latter could be the better of the pair.
He finished 2.75 lengths behind Born To Be Wild last month but is now is 2kg better off so it should be very close between them. Another Giant has the benefit of winning form on this course.
Two Strikes was just 2.25 lengths behind Born To Be Wild and is also 2kg better off, so he comes into the race with as much chance as any.
