Class rise puts undefeated status at risk

A DIFFICULT draw and a rise in class have put Blazing Home’s undefeated status at risk.

Unbeaten from three starts, Blazing Home will step up in grade when he heads to Club Menangle on Saturday night.

Impressive during his wins around provincial circuits, the David Kennedy-trained freshman is the widest drawn runner in barrier seven.

“Coming from seven isn’t ideal, but it’s only a small field, so no matter where he settles he won’t be far off the pace,” Kennedy said.

“He seems to have a bit of gate speed, can sit off the pace and do a bit of work, so he’s fairly versatile which gives Jackson (Painting, driver) options.

“I’ve been happy with his three runs and he should continue to improve as he gains experience.”

With several runners boasting solid form in the 1609-metre contest, Kennedy cites Naturally Gifted as the main danger despite the gelding being first-up for four months.

Naturally Gifted hasn’t raced since his second in the Gold Crown Final in Bathurst on March 25.

Prepared by Wayne Dimech, Naturally Gifted will come from gate six.

“Wayne’s horse was runner-up in a Group One, so that’s good enough form to say he’s the one to beat even first-up from a break,” Kennedy said.

Planning to spell Blazing Home following his pending assignment, Kennedy will then prime the son of Rock N Roll Heaven for an interstate campaign.

“My bloke only had one educational trial in New Zealand before we bought him and is unbeaten in his three starts and three trials here, so he looks like a pretty good purchase,” Kennedy said.

“They paid a bit of money for him and he looks like he’ll pay his way.

“Menangle will be last his start this time in. I’ll give him some time off then get him ready for Vicbred later in the year.”