Make a Tactical Bid to Dimanche Gras

TACTICAL BID can recapture her seasonal debut form and is the pick to take the Dimanche Gras Allowance feature on the Arima Race Club “Carnival Friday Lime” card at Santa Rosa Park, Arima, today.

This filly is already a winner over course and distance, powering clear to score in a three-year-old and over Restricted Handicap in October after setting the fractions. Not surprisingly Tactical Bid was out again quickly, but taking a step-up in class failed to show the same spark and could only manage sixth of nine runners behind Carnival Messiah, Outswinger and Phantom Bidder in the Handicap 1 and Lower event. Dropped back in distance at that same level on the opening day of the current season, Tactical Bid  romped to an easy victory. The daughter of Tactical Advantage/Bida Attraction has continued to please on the gallops, and connections are obviously keen to strike while the iron is hot, and the four-year-old should enjoy another success in  today’s 1750-metres spotlight on the nine race card framed in the names of the various Carnival mas’ and competitions for which Trinidad and Tobago are famous.

Millenium Reign finished ahead of Tactical Bid last time the two crossed swords. The 2003 Royal Oak Derby winner is now five kilos worse off at the weights but could still provide stern opposition. Punto A Punto has enjoyed two good races lately. And this turn around in form could well prove to be the new training methods adopted by trainer Douglas Bennett, who instead of wearing his faithful servant out on the main course has chosen to use the walker. When at peak condition the roan grey could measure up to this league and must not be overruled. The Ole Mas Starter Allowance contest which acts as the supporting cast on today’s card looks a straightforward fight between Miss Lover Lover, Song Of Freedom and Fortunate Flag.

Today’s programme is intended to carry a Carnival atmosphere. Patrons attending today’s races will be able to enjoy the sweet sound of steel from the Arima All Stars Steelband, and will hear this season’s hits and road march contenders emanating from the boxes of a popular DJ between races. And ten turfites on the course will also be afforded the opportunity of attending Sunday’s Dimanche Gras show at the Queen’s Park Savannah, through lucky losers draws.