Expect something Super in November
BY OBSERVER RACING WRITER
THIS year’s Superstakes which is less than a month away promises to be something from the top drawer, the very top.
Three horses have laid strong claims to winning this prestigious race which could even have a strong bearing on horse-of-the-year honours.
When Perfect Neighbour won the Governor General’s Stakes on Saturday he placed his credentials squarely in the Superstakes hat along with defending champion Typewriter and, of course, the ever talented and durable Commanding Chief.
All three will carry the same weight of 57 kilogrammes, which gives Commanding Chief the distinct handicap advantage over Perfect Neighbour, while Typewriter is renowned for producing when it matters most and that is on the big days.
The line-up of jockeys also spells intrigue. Commanding Chief will more than likely benefit from the services of champion Dane Nelson while Typewriter for sure will be guided by the ‘big race’ jockey Shane Ellis. Too early yet to place a rider on Perfect Neighbour carrying 57.0 kg but if all goes well, Shamaree Muir will do the honours.
Commenting on the chances of Perfect Neighbour in the Superstakes, trainer Wayne DaCosta said after the colt’s win on Saturday: “We all will sit level with 57.0 kg so it can be anybody’s game. Perfect Neighbour ran with 52.0 kg today (Saturday) and beat Commanding Chief by just under two lengths, so his connections should be happy with his performance as well, but let us see what happens.”