This is a busy weekend for Purdon Racing especially among the youngsters with rising stars engaged at both Auckland and Addington.
So how will they measure up ?
ADDINGTON
Though it is not a Grand Final for either the clash between Don’t Stop Dreaming and Merlin will be the public’s focus in the last of the Sires Stakes heats.To add to the drama they are drawn alongside each other. How much does it mean for Don’t Stop Dreaming to draw inside of his great rival ?
“It is a two edged sword really. If Natalie went hard early he could end up in a better position and if she goes back there is the chance she will give Merlin a drag into the race. They are both smart horses and from the gates both have got a challenge on their hands but should run the quinella. Sinbad is training the right way but whether he could beat them in his first for a while is the question. He can certainly get some of the money.He’s been into Addington to work, as have the other two and they all seem to be going well.
First starter Bronson, mentioned by Mark at the start of the season as a likely type this year,has trialled well enough since to win his debut and there will be further interest in the rising trotting star Paramount Express,rushing through the classes at high speed.
And speed is her strength according to Nathan.
“Yes she’s quite a strong mare but I think her speed is her biggest asset.She is on and off the bit waiting to use her speed in a race and it is a great asset. She’s not as experienced as most ( 8 starts,5 wins,all at Addington) but she is a natural and she can win again”
The stable is amassing a superb record after taking time to set up early in the season.They have 31 winners from just 85 starters and have won over $300,000 more than the leading stable of Robert and Jenna Dunn who have 55 winners from 283 starters.
That record should look even stronger by Saturday morning
PIC: Don’t Stop Dreaming Renews Battles with Merlin at Addington