TRAINER Vaughan Marshall has doubts about Tribal Dance in the Darley Arabian, but the colt still rates the one to beat, writes NICCI GARNER.
Marshall said: “I have two big concerns – the drop of 300m in distance and the lack of any evident pace in the race which reminds me of his Derby run.’’
Tribal Dance led in the 2400m Derby at Clairwood and was only overhauled late by Master Plan. He went on to beat Gold Cup favourite Blake in the Schweppes 2200 on Durban July Day.
It is likely that the same tactics will be used as in the Derby and the shorter run-in at Greyville will be to his advantage.
Improving Red Fort was 1.50 lengths behind Tribal Dance in the Derby and is 4kg better off, more than enough to turn the tables. However, he has two severe disadvantages, having not run under lights or at Greyville before.
Feature-placed Heavy Metal won his most recent start by an impressive 10 lengths and should earn.
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SHADES OF INDIGO has only one feature win to his credit, but Joey Ramsden’s charge could add another to his tally when he lines up in the Umngeni Handicap over 1000m.
He has done little to recommend in his last two starts, finishing last behind What A Winter in the Mercury Sprint and only ninth behind Mike’s Choice in the Post Merchants.
However, he did much better in his ante-penultimate start when a 1.35-length third behind Delago Deluxe in the Grade 1 Golden Horse Casino Sprint.
He has also run well to top horses like Depardieu and Divine Jet in the past and if he can bring that kind of enthusiasm to the course he will win, in spite of the fact that he might find the distance a trifle sharp.
Mr Mickey Mouse might have found 1200m a bit too far last time out when his saddle slipped and he faded. He has a light weight and should finish in the money.
Tetelestai ran on well for second to Jaegerbomb over this course and distance last time out when three of these rivals (all better off) finished behind him. He should place.
