Rindanica seeks third straight win

EDMONTON, Alberta - Rindanica will be seeking his third straight victory when a field of five 3-year-olds meets in Saturday's $40,000 Count Lathum at Northlands Park.

The 1 5/16-mile Count Lathum is the final prep for the $150,000 Canadian Derby at 1 3/8 miles here Aug. 23.

Rindanica, owned by Rick Robertson and trained by Riley Rycroft, is coming off wins here in the 6 1/2-furlong Western Canada and the 1 1/16-mile Ky Alta under his regular rider, Perry Winters. He will carry high weight of 119 pounds.

In the absence of local standout Taiaslew, who is scheduled to run in Monday's Manitoba Derby at Assiniboia Downs, Rindanica's main rival is expected to be Beau Brass, whose late charge in the Ky Alta fell just a half-length short.

Beau Brass, purchased privately from Alberta breeder Denny Andrews, is owned by Tom White and trained by Rick Hedge. Both said they believe he will relish the extra distance.

Beau Brass, who drew the rail, will carry 113 pounds. David Wilson will ride. His lone triumph came when he won his maiden in his debut last year.

Carrying co-second highweight of 117 pounds are Cool Bender, trained by Barry Brown, and Reb's Drummer, from Rob Chabot's barn.

Cool Bender, who won the Golden Boy at Assiniboia Downs in early June for his third win of the year, was second in the Western Canada and fourth, beaten less than two lengths, in the Ky Alta.

Reb's Drummer also has three victories this year. He finished third in the Ky Alta after setting the pace.

Shawteesh, trained by Dale Greenwood, completes the field.