Jack Milner: Dr Doolittle should have too much class for his rivals when he lines up in a MR 96 Handicap over 1800m on the Vaal Classic track on Tuesday.
In his last start the three-year-old Ideal World colt raced in a Progress Plate over 2000m and only looked to have Cornish Pomodoro to beat. However, he had to give Sean Tarry’s runner 3kg and after he blew the start, that weight told in the closing stages and Paul Peter’s charge went down 0.75 lengths to a runner a year older than him.
This time, as it is a handicap, he gets the full benefit of his 2.5kg weight-for-age allowance. Two runs back he contested the Grade 1 SA Classic over this distance but was a little outclassed in a strong field and finished 6.75 lengths behind SA Triple Crown champion Malmoos.
Dr Doolittle has won his only run at this course so the track holds no fears, and he has champion jockey Warren Kennedy in the irons.
The scratching of stable companion Destinys Game could make Category Four the runner to follow Dr Doolittle home.
Category Four recorded three wins and a second place in four starts before taking a break but has taken time returning to best form since then. However, his last start showed marked improvement and if at his best Grant Maroun’s runner is capable of troubling Dr Doolittle.
Tyrus Express has been campaigning over further but his last win – three runs back –
was over 2000m. Muzi Yeni is in top form and he takes the ride Paul Matchett’s charge.