J&B MET PREVIEW

(Run On the 2nd February 2002)

El Picha is the class horse in the race. His first run back after a long lay-off was promising. He should strip a far fitter horse this time and deserves respect. Class horses have a good record in this event. 

Ingleside won the Summer Cup in brilliant fashion. He needs a fast pace to be fully effective, which is something that may be missing here.

Free My Heart was an unlucky loser in the Queen’s Plate last time. Ultra-game and consistent, it may well be a case of third time lucky for this season campaigner.

Trademark has clearly improved since being touched off in this event last year. With victories in both the July and the Queen’s Plate, he has established himself as one of the best around and his preparation has been perfect.

Badger’s Coast won this race as a three-year-old. He returned to best with a good second in the Summer Cup and he must be respected.

Bunter Barlow was a surprise winner of this race last year. He could finish in the money here, but faces a stiffer task this time round.

Taupo Retreat appears to have gone off the boil since his good win in the Germiston November Hcp.

Young Rake is another who needs a stiff test of stamina to most effective. He isn’t too reliable nowadays, but still rates a danger if the mood suits.

Grande Jete won the Derby over this course and distance. He won his warm-up race in good style and looks sure to run well here. Based on the official merit ratings he appears well held at these weights, but we nevertheless have the utmost respect for his chances.

The Sheik is another former Derby winner over this course. His recent form is useful without inspiring confidence.

Badge Of Honour is very reliable and consistent but may just lack the class to be beat a field of this nature.

Mon Cher is another who rates just off the best. Angus tries this trip for the first time. He is very game and reliable and could finish in the money.

Disneyland comes into the race of two good prep runs. In the Queen’s plate he finished under two lengths behind Trademark and Free My Heart and is now at least 7lb better off at the weights. If he stays, he rates a lively outsider.

Polo Classic bounced back to best recently and dead-heated with El Picha at levels last time. He is now 11lb better off and rates a serious contender at the weights.

Escoleta Fitz keeps getting better and better. Her Paddock Stakes victory was very impressive. Imperious Sue won this race carrying 51,5 kg after being beaten in the Paddock Stakes, so the omens are good, and lightly weighted fillies have a good record in this race.

Selection:        1. Escoleta Fitz

                        2. Free My Heart

                        3. Polo Classic

                        4. Grande Jete