3 minute read

Cranbourne-based trainers Trent Busuttin and Natalie Young struck barren land as far as success at Caulfield yesterday but they’re looking to return to better fortunes in today’s Listed TAB Cranbourne Cup (2025m) with Tavirun.

Tavirun, a five-year-old gelding by Tavistock out the Volksraad mare, Alleyrun, takes the unusual step at this stage of the Spring Carnival of reverting back in distance after two runs at 2400 metres - the latest in placing behind High Emocean in the Listed Harry White Classic at Mornington.

"He's freshened up nicely with a couple of sharp gallops to keep him on his toes", Young said of the preparations. "I can't fault him and I think he'll run a really nice race."

A $10 chance with TAB, Young also see barrier 13 as a factor that can be negated with Damien Oliver aboard.

"He's got the wide gate to contend with. That could be an issue but if anyone can overcome that then it's Oli. 

"I think he's come through that race at Mornington really well. He looks a bit better in the coat. His work is really good. He went for a canter over the weekend and came back into the barn on his toes. 

"There'll be plenty of speed in the race, so I think he can slot in midfield. He'll come from a bit further back but I think the track will dry out and I think he'll definitely be in the mix."

2019 Cranbourne Cup winner and current $5 favourite Dr Drill takes his place in the field after a disappointing result finishing 12 lengths behind Orderofthegarter in the Listed Naturalism Stakes (2000m) at Caulfield.

"I was probably more confident last year", says co-trainer Ciaron Maher who has returned to pandemic-Melbourne after a period in Sydney. 

"I was very confident second-up at Caulfield but everything went amiss. He's normally a very honest horse. He's had a bit of time. 

"He doesn't take a lot of work but I have targeted this race for him. He's got a bit of weight (60kgs), it's probably a step back but I'd say he's in with a shot for sure."