As usual I like to catch up with a trainer leading into the weekend who has some nice chances heading to the races. This week I decided to catch up with one of our best in Brian Wakefield and find out the latest with Wave Dancing and Joint Chiefs.
Wave Dancing is entered in the no metrop win 2020m (race 5). She has not had a lot of luck this time in work and should have finished a bit closer last time out against River Lad. She was beaten 2.5L that day, and Brian thinks she is a chance even though she is having her first go at 2020m. “She did get chopped out at a vital stage in that race, but to her credit she picked herself up and hit the line. Stepping up to the 2020m is a bit of an unknown with her, but I think she should run the distance.” Wakefield said.
He also was not too worried about the gate as the mare can be a fraction slow out of the gates which may negate the bad draw (18), and added that if she does run the trip out she could be in the finish.
Joint Chiefs looks the better of Brian’s chances on paper and he has been a model of consistency this preparation. It looks like it should be suitable for Joint Chiefs, but his trainer did make a few good points that would help his cause. “There’s not the real speed I wanted in the race, however over 1100m they should still get along. He has the 6 alley and can be parked where he wants to be.” Brian pointed out.
Another important point about the race is whether Leapfrog runs in Brisbane or Sydney? If he runs in Brisbane that would enhance Joint Chiefs claims as he will inject a lot of pace. Also worth noting Ric McMahon takes the ride as the owners were after a senior rider this time around.
Probably the best up and comer in the Wakefield camp is Pretty Composed. She has won her two career starts to date, and although they were in easy company I feel we can follow her with a fair bit of confidence. Brian confirmed that by telling me he does have a high opinion of her. “She just had three weeks out in the paddock, she has come back in today and looks as though she has done well. She is above average and she did settle a bit better her last start. With her dams side she may get out to 1400-1600m, but at this stage we will probably keep her to the sprints.”
I win from either of the Wakefield horses would not surprise and I am very keen to see Pretty Composed step out again in the near future.
For those wanting to find out more on this growing stable check out Brian’s website:
http://wakefieldracing.com.au/
**Also for the new members who have come aboard brissyraces, the punting side of the site is a full Brisbane- Saturday preview including blackbookers etc will be up on Friday afternoon from around 4pm and is called “THE PUNT”. We have enjoyed a good run and hopefully I can help you in your endeavours to find a few winners
