Deluxina looks to take step up
SMART performer Deluxina can give defending champion Geoff Allendorf another handy winner at Taipa today and continue the recent run of trainer David Thompson.
The former Madras-based mentor saddled up a good winner in the shape of 18-1 chance Echo Valley last week but stable supporters will have to take shorter odds about Deluxina - particularly with Allendorf up.
The galloper has been running in top races but finding one or two just that little bit too good - and he has not always had that much luck in transit.
At his last start he finished second, course and distance, and looks poised to take the extra step this afternoon.
His honesty has resulted in a steady creeping up the scale but from the ideal barrier draw (2), and with Allendorf in top form, he should oblige.
And there won't be fancy odds about Eagle World (nap) in the seventh event, even though he was beaten fairly comprehensively at his last outing.
Visiting new Zealander Grant Davison, who has carved out a handy niche for himself at Taipa, rides the Kevin Connolly-trained galloper and over the sharp 1,000 metres he must prevail.
Meanwhile, Irish trainer Florence Mills will be looking for a change of luck today. Mills, Asia's only woman trainer, lost four horses in midweek including the very useful Amdiral and Vector. Both had been bought in Ireland and performed well for her.
Her best each-way chance could be Sunday Driver in the ninth. The 1,000 metres is on the sharp side but he will be coming home solidly and could just nudge into the frame.
