Monkey has connections feeling funky

RAPT she has exceeded expectations, connections of Funky Monkey hope she can continue to impress when she returns to Club Menangle.

Crossing the Tasman to join the powerful KerryAnn Morris stable last February, Funky Monkey is unbeaten from four Australian starts.

The mare’s victories include three Trotters’ Foundation Series heats of which she will contest the Final on Saturday night.

“She has been terrific ever since she arrived,” Morris said. “We bought her hoping she would be suited to racing here, but she has exceeded our early expectations.

“John Green put together a wonderful group of owners and she is giving them plenty to enjoy.

“She can’t do much more than win all of her starts and her trial!”

To Morris’ dismay, however, Funky Monkey has drawn awkwardly in barrier six.

Despite her starting position, the daughter of Monkey Bones is a $2.20 favourite in early markets, with Gimondi considered the main danger at $3.80.

Funky Monkey will be driven by Morris’ husband, Robbie.

Runner-up during his last three starts Gimondi will come from gate seven.

“The draw hasn’t helped,” Morris said. “She has gate speed though so will be coming out at the start.

“Gimondi is the biggest threat and has to be treated with respect.”