War Dan Buddy slays his opponents

Victorian trained colt War Dan Buddy (Art Major) stamped his class when he took out the first harness racing semi final of the NSW Breeders challenge for three  year old colts and geldings at Menangle Park last night. 

Awkwardly drawn on the back row, War Dan Buddy still commanded the most interest from punters and he was back into a solid favourite. There was strong support for Ravishing Sloy who had returned from an unsuccessful stint in the Victoria Derby.

Cameron Hart on War Dan Buddy was in no hurry and he was temporarily three wide at the rear of the field. Our Goat showed blistering speed early to clear the field from his wide front row draw and Ravishing Sloy was able to take a trail behind the leader. Dangerous Threats was caught racing outside the leader while Queensland visitor Air Express secured the one out and one back trail.

Hart bided his time but he let go with War Dan Buddy along the back straight and he unleashed a brilliant burst to be quickly alongside the leaders on straightening. Kept going War Dan Buddy had little trouble in holding off his rivals and scored by 3 metres from Air Express who finished on well with Ravishing Sloy a further seven metres in third after having to wait before getting clear.

The impressive mile rate of 1.51 was enhanced by the first quarter of 26.9 and a fast last quarter of 26.8 seconds. 

WAR DAN BUDDY REPLAY

War Dan Buddy skipped the Victoria Derby as connections preferred to concentrate on the NSW Breeders Challenge and on his performance he is bound to start a firm favourite.  Air Express lost no friends as he battled on gamely for second and while Ravishing Sloy held on for third, it’s hard to see him turning the tables on the winner.

For complete race results, click here.

by Tony Milanese, for Harnesslink