Renshaw Cup an even race according to Morris

Penrith’s Renshaw Cup, sponsored by Schweppes, has been one of the most sought-after harness racing races in the metropolitan area for decades.

Run over the staying distance of 2525m, the race named in honour of former Penrith President Dr Maurice Renshaw has in the past been taken out by so many of our top horses, trainers and drivers.

The $50,000 Cup features at tonight’s (Apr. 6) TAB Carnival Of Cups meeting and it has brought together a strong field of talented pacers.

The KerryAnn Morris trained and Robert Morris-driven Inter Dominion finalist Petes Said So (Well Said) is one of the leading contenders for the race and despite drawing awkwardly in gate 10, driver Morris believes his horse can overcome the adversity and win.

“I admit that it is a very even race this year,” said Robert.

“But our bloke has as good a winning chance as any.

“It is a long-distance race, so the draw is not as critical.

“His past few runs during the Sydney carnival pleased KerryAnn and I and if they happen to go hard over the 2525-metre trip, we know he is capable of finishing over the top of his rivals.

“I do believe that given the right run, any one of the top six horses in the market can win.

“But I wouldn’t swap my drive for any other in the race.” 

One horse that has thrown more interest and intrigue into the considerations is Naturally Gifted, who was runner up in the NSW Derby.

The youngster, trained locally by Wayne Dimech, is stepping out in open company for the first time and gate two draw will certainly enhance his chances.

Added to that advantage is that Naturally Gifted will be driven by Bathurst ace Amanda Turnbull, who is never fazed by a big occasion, proven recently by her winning catch drive in the Bathurst Gold Crown aboard Chart Topper.

Two co-features will support the Renshaw Cup with the Paul Fitzpatrick trained Jay Ok set to dominate the Asahi Pace (Race 4) while Download the TAB App Today Trotters Cup (Race 6) is a much more open affair, headed by The Gold Standard.

Tonight’s feature meeting at Penrith is expected to attract a big crowd as apart from the quality eight-race program, entertainment has been planned for patrons with an Easter theme leading into the long weekend.

For complete race entries, click here.

by Michael Dumesny, for HRNSW