Kalfaari must avoid trouble in Free Press

WINNIPEG, Manitoba - Kalfaari looks to continue his dominance of the local older horse division in Sunday's Free Press Stakes. Six older horses have entered the six-furlong race, which carries a purse of $30,000.

Undefeated in two starts here this year, Kalfaari's last loss came in the Premier's at Hastings Park in Vancouver last October. His last loss at Assiniboia Downs came in last year's Gold Cup, when he was defeated by Beau Ring, whom he again will face Sunday.

Beau Ring was an easy winner in his only start this year, over allowance company at Marquis Downs in Saskatoon. A winner of 14 races from 20 career starts, Beau Ring won his only outing here in last year's Gold Cup.

Kenyawin and Sterling Account probably will battle for the early pace, leaving the riders of Kalfaari, Gus Again, Smoky Cinder, and Beau Ring looking to find a good position behind the pacesetters. The Free Press winner may be the horse who gets the cleanest trip.

Kalfaari, who has drawn the rail, has often encountered trouble in his races. It will up to jockey Rohan Singh to make sure he gets a clean trip.

Beau Ring, Kalfaari's biggest threat, has drawn the outside post, and rider Anderson Ward should be able to keep him in the clear.

Gus Again, a winner of five races from seven starts last year, was unable to finish ahead of Kalfaari in their two meetings.

Smoky Cinder, an 8-year-old whose age may be catching up to him, has been well-beaten in two starts against Kalfaari this year.

* Nominations closed Thursday for the Manitoba Stakes and Canada Day Stakes.

Twenty-three 3-year-old Manitoba-bred colts and geldings have been nominated to the $30,000 Manitoba, to be run at a mile here June 30. The field will be limited to 12 starters, based on highest earnings at time of entry.

The nominees to the $30,000 Canada Day Stakes for fillies and mares, to be run at a mile here July 1, are Bitdaboss, Cathy's Star, Danceprincessdance, Dawn Edition, Farrmost, Itsacolddayinmay, Kitty Would, Maui Money, and Miss Sandy Dee.

for entries.

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