Clive Robinson
In football, the biggest challenge for top trainers like Liverpool’s Jurgen Klopp and Real Madrid’s Carlo Ancelotti is very often managing all their superstars, and the players waiting in the wings to prove themselves on the big stage.
The same can be said of trainers of thoroughbreds.
To manage a string of stars, potential stars and the also-rans, is not an easy assignment.
Sean Tarry has done this exceptionally well, as attested by his multiple champion trainer titles.
One of his stars that has been exceptionally well managed, is Nebraas, a five-year-old Vercingetorix gelding. Arguably the best stayer in the country, has taken to the field seven times in the last 12 months, scoring five wins, a runner-up finish and a third place – and that over distances ranging from 1800m to 3200m.
It is therefore unsurprising that when he lines up at Turffontein on Thursday 2 June in Race 5, a Pinnacle Stakes over 2400m, it will take a brave bettor to bet against him.
Multiple champion SA jockey Lyle Hewitson was the preferred jockey for most of Nebraas’ career, but since his departure to Hong Kong, Richard Fourie has taken over the role – with phenomenal success.
It is therefore no surprise that Fourie retains the ride as the pair aim to complete a hat-trick on Thursday.
Rated at 116, a full nine points higher than the next runner in the seven-horse field, Nebraas is also the best weighted, despite having to carry top weight of 60kg.
He was penalised six points for his 0.5-length victory in the Grade 3 Citizen Gold Bowl last time out over 3200m, which is perhaps a bit harsh, considering that second-placed stable companion Black Thorn was rated 91 going into that race.
Nebraas nevertheless looks to be a cut above the rest he faces on Thursday.
Black Thorn, interestingly enough, lines up in Race 7, a MR 96 Handicap over 1800m.
Still rated 91, Tarry seems to have picked the perfect race for this Pomodoro gelding to put his last two runner-up finishes behind him and go one better.
The 1800m might be just a touch sharp for the four-year-old, but with Keagan de Melo in the saddle he looks hard to beat, considering the pair have an exceptionally good record when teaming up.
