Splashout Cape Derby Grade 1!
A racing maxim used by grizzled veteran punters is “never bet on a short-priced favourite trying something for the first time.” Accordingly, these sceptics would play against Charles Dickens, odds on favourite to capture the Grade 1 SplashOut Cape Derby – as he now ventures over 2000m, which is 400m further than he’s ever attempted.
Despite that query, on pure ability (MR132) he towers over ten rivals opposing him at level weights, including six foes from Justin Snaith’s barn.
Charles Dickens has forged an increasingly formidable reputation by winning his first six starts, including the Cape Guineas, before succumbing to Al Muthana, when a few ticks below his usual brilliant best in the L’Ormarins King’s Plate.
Most probably, if freshened and restored to full powers by Candice Bass Robinson, settling comfortably and lasting home, then the truly high-class son of Trippi should smash them.
Best of Snaith’s tag team could be Rockpool who gets stronger at each successive start and will love the longer route. He was only shifting into top gear late in the piece when outrunning companion, Without Question and has untapped potential.
Much Dinero suffered a cruel racing injustice when pipped by Sudden Song, after being badly blocked. He will boost his underestimated current figure, but whether he can get within the same time zone as the mighty Charles Dickens is entirely another matter.
See It Again sports a progressive profile and, with pace presser, Grinkov is worth considering underneath for single race exotics.
On past performances however, the biggest threat to the fave is Brett Crawford’s versatile, At my Command. He stayed on purposefully behind Rockpool and is 6kg’s better off for that 2.75 length beat.
Twice before, he’s finished three/four lengths adrift of C.D. which puts things in perspective. Nevertheless, he should go boldly.
– Mark van Deventer
