HALSE AIMS UP AT MANDURAH DERBY GLORY
2019 Australian Trainer of the year Chris Halse heads in to this evening’s Mandurah Derby heats with five representatives including potential topliners Fernando Star and Sir Monty.
In the first of the heats Halse has West On Axel in box three and Fernando Star in box six and his duo meet some quality opposition including Werewolf Monelli, Steve Monelli and Van Buren.
Fernando Star, a winner at 6 of his 9 lifetime starts won his only start at Mandurah in a sizzling time of 27.26 and looks to have a very bright future ahead.
“Fernando Star is an exciting type and has a lot of upside.” Halse said.
“The draw could be a little bit sticky but he has got great early speed and if he can get over in to a spot early he has shown he can put time on the board.” Halse continued.
Halse also warned punters not to leave out West On Axel.
“West On Axel is suited at the Mandurah circuit and if he steps he can run a very cheeky race at odds.” Halse added.
In the second of the Mandurah Derby heats Halse has West On Olvee in box four and Sir Monty in box six.
“I have a lot of time for Sir Monty in the long term but he appears to be a dog probably better served to racing at Cannington.” Halse said.
“Monty has been a bit of a victim of circumstance I think – he was being aimed at the Launching Pad and obviously things have changed a bit in recent weeks with the Covid-19 situation.”
“With a clear run he is a fast dog but he runs in to some clever ones in this heat and he will need luck.” Halse suggested.
“West On Olvee is going to need luck from the draw and given the depth of the heat too.” Halse added.
In the Final Derby heat Halse has youngster Bust Or Boom drawn in box two.
“His 405 metre Maiden win in slick time showed he can run a bit but he meets some strong chasers in Redcap Monelli and Zack Monelli.” Halse said.
Earlier in the night in the 405 metre Free To All Curt Lee will start a short priced favourite for Halse.
The well credentielled son of Fernando Bale and Rockin’ Josie has had two starts in WA for a dazzling 22.55 second Best Of Day win on Good Friday before running a solid second to the in-form Mermaid Monelli last week.
“Curt Lee is still settling in and I get the feeling he still has a bit left up his sleeve.” Halse said.
“Both of his runs have been pleasing and he should just keep improving.” Halse concluded.
David Shortte