…tries for third consecutive Superstakes win, Perfect Neighbour the main threat

BY BUNNY MARTIN

BY BUNNY MARTIN

Observer racing writer

THE much revived Burger King Superstakes (10 furlongs) is down for contention tomorrow in what is by far the biggest race day in recent memory.

Thirteen races with a total of 150 runners are on tap for Super Day with the Superstakes taking pride of place.

The Superstakes is graced with nine of the best horses presently in training, led by Typewriter who is seeking his place among the greats with a third consecutive win. Typewriter will find his main competition coming from long-time rival Perfect Neighbour, Uncle Taf and Franfield.

Super Day also welcomes the return to the saddle of champion Dane Nelson who had a successful riding stint in Canada.

The Complete Racing Guide now provides its assessment of the $4.5 million Burger King Superstakes.

PERFECT NEIGHBOUR – Has done everything asked of him by trainer Wayne DaCosta. Perfect Neighbour emphasised his liking for two turns by winning, in commanding fashion, the 10-furlong Governor General’s Stakes and the Prime Minister’s Stakes. He is as fit as any horse can be, and in view of his usual consistency is hard to oppose. Defeated Typewriter in the GG Stakes receiving weight and with both arch-rivals racing at almost level terms, Perfect Neighbour is primed to win. Got the perfect warm-up race when he won the seven-furlong Gold Cup. Perfect Neighbour is ready, and may just be the horse to provide his trainer with a first win in this race.

TYPEWRITER – Has raced twice this year after injury last December in the Harry Jackson Memorial Cup. Typewriter won his debut race on August 29 over 1820 metres in a lower class, then finished second behind Perfect Neighbour over 10 furlongs to announce his fitness and readiness. Trainer Spencer Chung has publicly stated that Typewriter’s main objective is the Superstakes and his training schedule has reflected that purpose. Typewriter is a genuine two-turn horse, and with fitness and injury no longer major concerns, the six-year-old bay gelding will again show his supreme class and win for the third consecutive year. Some things are just meant to be.

MIRACLE STAR – The presence of champion jockey Dane Nelson will spark some interest in the chances of Miracle Star.

FRANFIELD – The winningest Superstakes trainer Richard Azan (eight times) and the winningest jockey Winston Griffiths (seven wins) join forces as they seek another Superstakes victory with the talented Franfield, who has not won since June 28. He has suffered defeats from the likes of Uncle Taf, Typewriter, and Hover Craft, making it extremely difficult for Franfield to be considered a winner here, but the combo of Azan and Griffiths can seemingly work magic. Let’s see.

UNCLE TAF – Uncle Taf is a tough, rugged and dependable competitor. Trainer Solomon Sharpe has often said that Uncle Taf tells him when he is ready, and given his focussed preparation, the five-year-old chestnut gelding is ready. Ran really well in the Gold Cup finishing third behind Perfect Neighbour and Uppa Tune. So forget handicaps, forget the rest, Uncle Taf knows when to run and he will give a good show on the morrow.

HOVER CRAFT – Has won an A’ Class race this season but even with this achievement will find winning here quite difficult.

ROYAL VIBES – Will proudly carry his owners’ colours in a big race.

RAGING PROSPECT – Good for a possible minor share.

SOUTHERN CRUISE – The only three-year-old from this year’s crop to start in the Superstakes.