Alchemy of Souls to go one better in Louis Hitchins Mem Cup
The $1.1-million Louis Hitchins Memorial Cup takes place on tomorrow’s nine-race card. The Restricted Allowance II contest for native-bred three-year-olds and upward (non-winners of two) and imported three-year-olds and upward (maidens) has attracted a field of seven runners and will run over nine furlongs and 25 yards (1,820m).
Below is an analysis of the runners and their chances of winning.
1. PRETTY BROWN THING: (3 b f by Northern Giant – Sexy Moon) – This filly showed promise in her last outing, finishing a respectable fourth by three lengths behind Prince Roy over 7 furlongs (1,400m). With an extended trip, she’s expected to appreciate the extra distance and put in a strong performance.
2. BIG BUZZ: (3 b c by Buzz Nightmare – Lady Tarkari) – Big Buzz has been in impressive form lately, thriving in long-distance races. He’s expected to make a bold bid for victory, and his recent performances suggest he’s a contender to watch out for.
3. ALCHEMY OF SOULS: (3 gr c by Spieth – Emerald) – Alchemy of Souls is the horse to beat… on paper. Despite narrowly missing wins in his last two outings, he looks poised to take the top spot in this field. With a strong pedigree and a relaxed racing style, he’s a strong contender for the win.
4. BENEISON: (3 b c by Sensational Slam – Benediction) – Beneison finished a close second three starts aback by a neck behind Bob The Builder over 9 ½ furlongs (1,800m). If he can reproduce that effort, he’ll give Alchemy of Souls a run for his money and make this a closely contested race.
5. QUANTUM STAR: (3 b f by Hoppertunity – Countess Claire) – Unfortunately, Quantum Star doesn’t seem to have a strong chance of winning in this field.
6. ROARING KITTY: (3 b f by Casual Trick – Salty Talk) – Roaring Kitty has the speed and agility to put in a solid performance, but she might not quite have what it takes to win. She’s expected to run well and could finish in a respectable position.
7. HE’S SENSATIONAL: (3 ch c by Sensational Slam – Sheer Madness) – He’s Sensational won his last outing, but repeating that performance might be a challenge. While he’s a talented colt, he might struggle to match his previous form and could fade in the final stretch.