Wide open field for Cheviot Cup

With a history dating back to 1946, this year’s Cheviot Business Cheviot Cup Handicap Pace (4.02pm) has attracted a big harness racing field and plenty of chances.

The two most heavily-supported runners are Xlendi ($3.90) and Renegade ($4.80). But the winning hopes don’t end there with Radha, Betterthancash, Double Time, Tanzania and Built For Glory and others also in the mix.

“Sunday does look a great race for him, especially over the long trip because he is such a great stayer,” Renegade’s trainer Brendon Hill told Raceform.

He’ll start off 30 metres.

“What we’re doing with him now is preparing for the future too, because he’s got to be able to face up to the tape and step away well from the stands, so there’s a long-term benefit too.”

Past Cup champions have included the likes of Tiger Tara (2015) and Starship (1988).

To place a bet on the Cheviot Cup click here 

In the $40,000 Group 3 Cobbity Equine Farm Leonard Memorial Mobile Pace (2.48pm) for the two-year-old fillies the Mark and Nathan Purdon pair look to hold the aces.

The $1.85 favourite is Secret Wish (Blair Orange) who was a dominant winner at her previous start beating race rival Bettor Belle.

“(She) has trained on nicely since her last start win, should make her presence felt from the draw,” said a comment on the All Stars racing website. 

Secret Wish has shown good gate speed in her two starts to date and it would not be a surprise to see Orange use this to her advantage.

Alecto ($10.00FF) is Purdon’s other chance in the event with driver Jonny Cox. The Bettor’s Delight filly has had one start where she was a strong placegetter at Addington on March 21.

“(She) run a great second against the colts last start, has stepped up in her training since that race and should be right in this.”

Other chances in the event include the southern visitor Havtimewillfly ($4.40FF) for trainer Brett Gray, while Bettor Belle for Cran and Chrissie Dalgety must also be respected.

The first of 11 races at Addington goes at 12.23pm.

For complete race entries, click here.

by Mike Love, for Harness Racing New Zealand