Connections of finalists have been invited to the executive boxes at Sheffield tonight for the inaugural running of the Steel City Puppy Derby.
Racing Manager Andrew Mascarenhas has been sharing his views on the evening’s seven open races including the £15K decider.
Andrew said: “Crystal Countess has just changed kennels but I don’t expect that to affect her and we know that she runs the track well. You would have to respect the four, though he hasn’t got track experience. Youmeanirene has good form here but didn’t trial back particularly well recently.” 5-4-3
Andrew said: “I think they all have to beat Abigails Happy in here. I do have some concerns about the three potentially moving wide but I think she should be good enough. The red doesn’t stay this trip, in my view, and the six is already a Category One finalist. 4-6-5
Andrew said: “It has to be the three, (Coppice Josie) if nothing else on her form behind Fabulous Azurra. Black Racket has been running really well and looks the obvious danger. 3-2-4
Andrew said: “I think the others would need to start now to beat Slapdash Tommy. He won the Queen Mother Cup last year and was a finalist this year. He has the most class in the race and I just can’t see anything else winning it. 2-4-1
Andrew said: “This isn’t the strongest sprint open and I can’t see past Castlehill Jil who has been running so well. Overall, I don’t think there is much between them.” 4-3-5
Andrew said: “What a fabulous open this is but you have to go for quality, and that means Signet Otis who is a Cat One winner (British Breeders Stakes) and multi finalist. Forest Icon obviously has ability but hasn’t been around here so I’ll make Maxiumum Security as the danger. 4-3-2
Before Andrew’s comments – a reminder of last week’s semi finals.
Andrew said: “You would have to say it is Droopys Fidget‘s to lose. She has dominated the event but I do have some concerns about her. Her sectionals got slower at Monmore and they have here so far. If she doesn’t come away, there is every chance she could find trouble. I think the inside three and the six will all be happy with the draw, though not necessarily four or five. So I will stick with the favourite, with some reservations, and with the six the big danger as the only wide runner who should get a clear run.” 2-6-1
