Australia: Fengarada seeks fourth straight victory when he faces tougher at Swan Hill
Fengarada was a useful runner for trainer David Brideoake from his debut in July 2020 until June of this year, winning twice and finishing second four times in 11 starts.
For trainer John Leek, Jr., Fengarada has been unbeatable in three starts since July, more than recouping his purchase price of approximately $13,800 from an online auction in June.
The winning streak will be at risk when Fengarada races against a tougher level of handicap runners at 1 1/2 miles at Swan Hill Racecourse on Thursday.
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Fengarada was the 2-1 favorite in early betting on Wednesday, a slight choice over the equally promising mares Mimi’s Award at 5-2 and Chatelaine at 3-1.
The distance is Fengarada’s first attempt at the trip in his 15th start. Judging from the way Fengarada won a handicap at 1 5/16 miles at Sandown Racecourse in Melbourne on Aug. 24, the distance should not be an issue. Fengarada pulled clear to win by 7 1/2 lengths at 10-1.
Mimi’s Award won at 1 9/16 miles in the Group 3 South Australia Classic at Morphettville Racecourse in May 2021, her most recent victory. Winless in 13 subsequent starts, Mimi’s Award has won 3 of 19 starts and has been second or third in her last five races, all at 1 1/2 miles or longer.
Chatelaine, a winner of 5 of 24 starts, has yet to win in four starts at 1 1/2 miles, but was second by a neck in a handicap for fillies and mares at the distance at Sandown in July. More recently, Chatelaine won a handicap for fillies and mares at 1 5/16 miles at Sandown.
Chatelaine is quick enough to lead on Thursday.
Swan Hill has an eight-race program beginning at 11:30 p.m. Eastern or 8:30 p.m. Pacific. Wagering is available through DRFBets.com.