TREVOR REID: CURRENT South African jockeys’ log-leader Gavin Lerena will be looking to pull a few more wins over nearest rival Anton Marcus this weekend and Three Captains can help his cause by winning Race 6 over 1000m at Arlington on Friday.
He was heavily supported when a disappointing sixth, 4.85 lengths behind Take Over Target last time out, but might not have got the 1200m of that race. Three Captain has twice been runner-up over this course and distance and Lerena is a positive booking as he is usually at his very best when employing hold-up tactics.
The race has an open look about it and Apolo Grey from the Justin Snaith yard is an obvious danger. Apolo Grey beat Three Captains by 0.50 lengths last time out and is a 1kg better off. He runs well for jockey Richard Fourie and must be included in all exotic bets.
Bookmakers have made Bob ‘N Weave joint favourite in opening betting but he looks one to take on. This gelding has run well recently but has not won a race for some time. Bob ‘N Weave is also better over further.
Jella Loochee reminded racegoers that he is a capable sort when running out an easy winner over this track and trip last time out. He had Apolo Grey four lengths behind him that day and is 4.5kg worse off. He returns from a 68-day break but if in the right mood can win this.
Icemberg has not been seen at his best in his last two runs but is another who has good form over this course and distance. He finished a neck behind Apolo Grey over the Arlington 1000m in April and is 3kg better off.
Speedy frontrunner Bandol found 1200m a touch too far last time out and will prefer this trip. If allowed to dictate matters, he could keep going to earn a stake cheque.
Kentucky Express and Bermuda Prince are held on form but are good enough to place at best.
