IMPROVEMENT. Despite a disappointing last run at the course, Varbration remains the horse to beat in the Langalibalela Handicap over 1000m at Scottsville today.
Varbration started his career in the best possible way by running out an easy 6.75-length winner at Clairwood in July last year.
The Var gelding followed up with a good second place finish to the decent Generalissimo in September then winning runs over 1200m on the Greyville Polytrack, beating Nineteen Fourteen and Tip Toe.
A crack at the Chapter Challenge over Scottsville proved disappointing for Varbration as after showing good early pace he fell away to be well beaten. Varbration was found to be not striding out so it is best one ignores that run.
There does seem to be a lack of speed (apart from Varbration) so it is possible he could get a soft lead and make all.
There are some decent horses taking part and Varbration’s detractors will point out he has yet to win at Scottsville in both his starts there so runners like Showmetheway, Mr Whatever, Pej and Garibondy have to be respected.
Showmetheway and Mr Whatever are both proven at this track with Showmetheway having won four times and Mr Whatever having five victories to his name.
Garibondy is also sure to be running on late at this her favourite track but it could be a case of the bird has already flown with Varbration.