Only three starters will be at the start of this first Group 3 race of the 2023 season which will be run over 990m. Emblem Of Hope is the banker of this weekend of races on paper.
Emblem Of Hope’s record compared to his opponents of the day speaks for itself. This runner has four wins and three second places in seven outings in Mauritius. Emblem Of Hope has given full satisfaction at gallop time and is in excellent physical condition.
He won over 1365m and 1400m. Emblem Of Hope has only one outing over 990m in Mauritius. It was during his last race in 2022 when he was narrowly beaten by an excellent Dutch Alley. He will start from the first lane and he can win easily from start to finish.
The inconsistent Etched In Blue will try to block his path. This runner has two wins and two placings in 13 outings. His last win was over 990m. He blows hot and cold and we don’t know if he will have a good day on Sunday. Etched In Blue will have the advantage of carrying only 52 kg, 9 less than Emblem Of Hope. He will try to take advantage of this difference in handicap.
A win for Winter Chill will be a big surprise. This runner has finished last and far from the winners in his last three races of 2022.
