SUNDAY RUNNERS FOR US

Two Sunday runners for us at Ballarat with The Duke Of Dubai and Chicago Cub taking part.

The Duke Of Dubai (pictured) is the first to go in race four, the benchmark 64 handicap for three-year-olds over 1400m with Daniel Stackhouse riding.

Scratchings have reduced the opposition to four and Mike Moroney believes the drop back from metropolitan racing will suit The Duke Of Dubai.

“He was better than the bare form suggests last start at Flemington where he was beaten less than three lengths in similar grade,” Mike said.

“He carries the same weight today, the small field will make it a tactical affair however, he’s capable of dominating and the race could end up being run to suit.

“He’s nice and fit and at his second try at the distance I’m sure he will be competitive.”

Chicago Cub is in race six, the benchmark 78 handicap over 1200m with the claim for Tianni Chapman reducing his weight to 58 kg.

“He’s second-up today after a long break and he’s taken good improvement from his run three weeks ago,” Mike said.

“I’m anticipating the track will improve and that will suit, it’s a drop in class and we’ve claimed to help him with the weight plus taking the blinkers off.

“It looks an even sort of race but I’m happy with him, he looks terrific and with ordinary luck I’m anticipating he will run a much better race today.”