Greeff in line to take Leg 2 of East Cape Poly Challenge
Horse Racing
Greeff in line to take Leg 2 of East Cape Poly Challenge
April 2021
Trainer Alan Greeff has a strong hand in the second leg of the World Sports Betting East Cape Poly Challenge (Non-Black type) over 1400m at Fairview on Friday, but it’s not obvious which of his four carded runners is the flag-bearer.
The first leg proved to be an exciting race with the Vercingetorix gelding Viking Moon drawing clear very late to score.
The gelding procedure has certainly brought out the best in Viking Moon and he is on a winning streak of four.
It is interesting to note that stable jockey Greg Cheyne will be aboard Viking Moon for a fifth consecutive outing. The course and distance will hold no fear for the four-year-old.
Stable companion Marmara Sea, with Richard Fourie in the saddle, will be a big threat.
Marmara Sea joined the yard of Alan Greeff as a maiden just over a year ago after six starts. But he has been prolific since, winning his next eight starts and remaining unbeaten on the Polytrack.
His winning streak, however, came to an abrupt end on the turf last time out, but he is back on his favoured track.
Earth Hour has met – and has been beaten by – Marmara Sea more than once. It must be noted though that Earth Hour was not far behind Viking Moon last time out and was doing good work at the finish.
Earth Hour had a bad draw last time and if he is touch this time round, he will again give a good account of himself.
Greeff also has Dubula who is consistent, and although unlikely to win, could run into the money.
Trainer Gavin Smith has his horses in fine shape and The Highway Man is a very dangerous customer when in the mood. A notorious front runner, he will take some catching if getting the opportunity to slip ahead.
Jack Milner’s selections
Race 1: 6 Shahidi, 4 Carmela, 7 Just So Easy, 11 Keara
Race 2: 13 Emerald Floe, 2 Demonte, 1 Al Qaasim, 6 Big Splash