TALENTED Tasmanian stayer Banca Mo will be a definite acceptor for next Monday’s Betfair Hobart Cup (240m) following his excellent performance in a 1400-metre trial at Tattersall’s Park in Hobart today.
Banca Mo was expected to have his final lead-up for the Hobart Cup in the weight-for age Summer Cup in Hobart 10 days ago but the horse became fractious in his barrier stall and when blood trickled from his mouth stewards had no option but to order his withdrawal from the race.
His behavior in the barriers also led to a warning being placed on the gelding and he had to be passed by stewards at the trials today to enable him to progress to the races.
Stewards gave the gelding the all clear as he was well behaved for the trial.
“You never want to play catch-up going into any big race but if there is any horse that is capable of producing the goods in a big race without an ideal preparation it is this horse” Brunton said.
“I am very pleased wit his trial this morning over 1400 metres.”
“He’s done exactly what I was looking for so it’s all systems go for the Hobart Cup next Monday,” he said.
Banca Mo settled second in his trial behind stablemate Payteevee that extended his lead over Banca Mo nearing the home turn.
But when jockey David Pires asked Banca Mo for an extra effort at the top of the straight the gelding grabbed hold of the bit and ran home well to edge out Payteevee on the line without being over taxed.
Banca Mo is likely to be installed favourite after final acceptances tomorrow morning.
In a Tattsbet fixed odds all-in market Banca Mo is already favourite at $5.50 with the Darren Weir-trained Akzar next best at $6 along with Tasmanian star Geegees Blackflash and the Tony McEvoy-trained Pelicano.
Akzar is an unlikely acceptor as is his stablemate Tooleybuc Kid ($8).
Bill Ryan’s cup hopes Genuine Lad ($7) and Iggimacool ($11) are strong chances with Iggimacool likely to be a big firmer after final acceptances.