24 September, 2003
A five horse field is not often something to get
enthused about.
But when that field boasts Franco Heir (pictured),
Lombo Skyrider, Sassy Sarah and Cut And Thrust it's a different story.
The $8000 Ballarat Ladies Committee Free For All
provides the setting for this enthralling contest on Saturday night.
All bar Cut And Thrust met in a trial at Kilmore eight
days ago in what shapes as an intriguing guide.
Whilst Franco Heir worked hard mid-trial to narrowly
take the honours, Sassy Sarah and Lombo Skyrider were equally as impressive
working home late on a bog track.
A former brilliant juvenile, Franco Heir has found a
new lease of life with Coldstream trainer Martin Herbert.
First-up for 10 weeks, he'll be chasing his fourth
consecutive win as the blinkers are firmly fitted for the $100,000 Mallia
Builders Kilmore Cup on 26 October.
Fresh from watching his beloved Magpies in Saturday's
AFL Grand Final, John Caldow will assume the reins from gate three.
Vin Knight Medallist Gavin Lang has given punters a
guide electing to drive Sassy Sarah (gate two) over Lombo Skyrider (gate four).
The brilliant five-year-olds, both regaular drives for
Lang, are returning from a spell, each in search of their 20th career win.
The Andy Gath-trained Cut And Thrust is rumored to be
heading to North America shortly and can pick up some handy dollars in the
interim.
A brilliant beginner, he was the giant-killer at
Moonee Valley last start leading throughout to defeat hot-pots Henschke and
Easy Dash.
From the pole, he looks certain to give his more
fancied rivals something to chase again over the 2200 metre trip.
The $8000 Ballarat Ladies Committee Free For All will
be run at 10.30pm (AET) on 27 September at Bray Raceway, Ballarat.
