My Aphrodite set to shed maiden tag

TRAINER Glenn Mendez’s string have been carrying all before them and My Aphrodite can make a contribution to the tally by winning the Matrix West Indian-bred three-year-old maiden event,  on the Arima Race Club “Friday Lime” programme at Santa Rosa Park, Arima, today. The chestnut daughter of Bandsman/Lallapaloosa is nicely weighted with 52.5 kilos and should get the job done. This filly, owned by Shaun Sammy, has failed to score in 14 lifetime starts, but has been running consistently well in  most outings under previous trainer Bertram Dookeran who, due to business commitments decided to quit the horse racing scene. My Aphrodite has earned her upkeep in eight of her outings over sprint distances and has finished ahead of most of the  runners who hold today’s engagement. Since changing stables My Aphrodite has raced only once, finishing sixth of 10 behind  Sweet Tempo in the classic Oaks Stakes earlier  this month.

In that event over 2000 metres she appeared better conditioned and looked very well in her coat. But back to the shorter trip and at  this level, Mendez will be keen to exploit the favourable-looking mark, and the $11,000 winners’ prize looks assured. Tactical Bid who created a big impact as a juvenile has not lived up to expectations. But a case can be made out for this three-year-old chestnut daughter of Tactical Advantage/Bida Distraction, whose poor performances came after a bout of tick fever. Hopes are still high that Russell Ramsammy can make up into a Grade one horse this term should all go right.  The filly has shown at gallops  that she is rounding into her best form and can bolster that impression by winning the Mr Solo Restricted Handicap feature on today’s seven-race card. Her biggest worry is having to tote the burden of 56.5 kilos in the 1300 metres, but with  neither of her seven rivals being blessed with good tactical speed, should be good enough  to concede the weight all around. “The Lime” which begins at 2.25 pm is expected to be hectic, with music being supplied by Rhapsody Steel Orchestra and D.J Dynamic Sounds. Added to that, Carib will be sold at $5 with the Carib Girls present.