Major ready to take command

ALTHOUGH he is in need of a run, Radical Major is expected to play a strong role in the finish at Tabcorp Park Melton on Friday.

Winner of his two starts before a break, the son of Art Major will be first-up for five weeks for trainer Mario Azzopardi.

Azzopardi originally planned to return Radical Major against his own age next week, but decided the three-year-old would benefit from the outing.

To be driven by Kyal Costello, Radical Major has drawn wide in barrier six.

“I had a setback with him after his last run,” Azzopardi said. “He got a little crook on me and missed a week of work.

“I was planning to race him in the three-year-old race next week but he would have to meet Alice Kay for example and she is low flying at the moment.

“I figured he would be better off with the start under his belt before he goes up against her.

“He is need of the run and will improve, but I still think he is forward enough to win on Friday.”

Beyond next week’s assignment Azzopardi has set his sights on the Australasian Breeders’ Crown and Vicbred Super Series.

The Breeders’ Crown is scheduled for November, with the Vicbred to be staged the following month.

“I don’t think he is right up to the top ones but we’re paid up for those races so we might as well have a go,” Azzopardi said.

“I’ll just try to find the right races between now and the Breeders’ Crown and then on to the Sires’ after that.”