The Randwick Mayors Cup meeting will be held at Royal Randwick this Saturday. The course proper was rated a Heavy 8 on Thursday and with showers forecast for Sydney over the next couple of days, Randwick is likely to remain in the Heavy range on raceday.
Adam Duggan-trained Sir Elton is looking to extend his unbeaten run in the Everest Carnival Handicap (Sydney Race 3, 1100m). The 3YO gelding has shown sustained speed winning both career starts over 1100m. The 1100m on Saturday will suit and Sir Elton can handle any track conditions. And it’s a huge plus to have Hugh Bowman on board. From barrier 9, Bowman will go forward and sit outside likely leader Embracer. Expect Sir Elton to have too much speed for the run home.
Fanciful Toff can make it three wins on the trot in the Randwick Mayors Cup (Sydney Race 5, 2400m). This Team Maher-trained gelding won well two starts back over 2200m at Bendigo before his last start victory over this track & trip a fortnight ago. This 4YO can handle any track conditions and he is rock hard fit. Jenny Duggan’s 2kg claim will bring Fanciful Toff’s weight down to 58.5kg. With a fair pace up front, Duggan can slot in mid-field from barrier 11. Fanciful Toff will show off his staying prowess and run over the top of this field.
That very promising gelding Ljungberg from the Ron Quinton yard can break through for his first victory this preparation in the Kensington Handicap (Sydney Race 8, 1300m). The 3YO was beaten narrowly in his first 2 starts this campaign and stepping up to 1300m 3rd up looks perfect. Ljungberg will be even fitter and he can handle any track conditions. Being asked to carry only 56kg after Clenton’s claim could well be a winning weight. Nicely drawn in gate 3, Clenton will park just behind the leaders and Ljungberg will take control of the race in the last furlong.
By Owens Wong, Editor
