The Canberra stable of Keith Dryden & Libby Snowden is marshalling the troops for next Sunday’s Forbes Cup Day that includes a two-pronged attack on the feature event.
Well-performed duo Missile Leader and Acheson are entries for the $50,000 Forbes Cup (1600m) which is a qualifier for the $3m Big Dance at Royal Randwick in November.
Missile Leader was well-supported when a last start Wagga winner while Acheson was runner-up in the Narrandera Cup last time out.
“Missile Leader is going along well and it’s a nice race for him, while Acheson is entered at the Kensington Track next Wednesday, but I think Forbes is the better option,” said Keith Dryden.
The Dryden/Snowden stable is likely to have a strong representation at Forbes, with several other gallopers nominated.
Luckless performer Rockabye Roxy is in the $30K Showcase Maiden Plate (1600m) and has had four starts for the stable for just as many second placings.
“We can only get them fit and healthy; she gets back in her races and keeps powering home but hasn’t cracked it for the win,” Dryden lamented.
“She has improved since her last run and is yet to see a dry track. Hopefully she gets that at Forbes.”
Everido returned from a 16-week break with a solid fifth to Jarrito at Warwick Farm and is nominated for the $30K The Amazing Ben Hall Bullet (1200m): “He got tired late the other day and has improved; since then, he’s had a decent hit out and will go well.”
The stable’s other entries are Diamond Frost ($35K Country Boosted Benchmark 58, 1400m), Showtime Maggie ($30K Showcase Class 2, 1100m) and Restless Spirit ($50K Super Maiden, 1300m).
“Diamond Frost won well on our home track but was ridden for luck the other day and it didn’t work out when he was checked halfway down the straight.
“Showtime Maggie didn’t handle the heavy track last start and will improve if it’s a dry surface at Forbes.”
Leading up to raceday, the Forbes Cup Calcutta dinner is scheduled for Saturday from 6pm at Club Forbes.
Forbes Jockey Club has trackside food available on Sunday, with on-course bars and bookmakers offering full TAB facilities.
There’s also a Fashions on the Field and attendees are encouraged to dress in their Sunday best to compete for cash and prizes.
The ticketed President’s Marquee ($120) includes heated undercover seating, canapes and a drinks package.
Words: Mark Brassell/Racing NSW