Last Lu looks certain to be Taranaki favourite

Press, 19 August 1981, Page 31

Last Lu looks certain to be Taranaki favourite

Special correspondent New Plymouth The promising New Plymouth stayer, Last Lu, will be all the rage for the Newton King Handicap, first leg of the T.A.B. double during the Hunt meeting today on his home track.

It took a sterling effort from Sir Christopher to down Last Lu in the corresponding event during the Taranaki meeting at New Plymouth last Friday. The former isn't engaged this time and Last Lu. which had an advantage of six lengths, over the third runner. Fair Edge, would only need to run .up to that form to win. Last Lu has a good record on his home track but he is still a three-year-old and. so is obviously going to be better later in his career. In his favour is the strength of the field, which isn’t as strong as last week. Get the Rent didn't fire at Te Rapa on Saturday but in this field he must be given another chance. His cen'ral

districts form late last term was excellent. In his favour is an ability to handle most tracks. Indications yesterday were that the going would be similar to the first day. However it would not take much rain to make the track cut out. General Tod is one which would come strongly into favour if there was much rain. He found the sprint on the first day too short. This field and class will suit him better. Leggy- Lee has now recorded ' a couple of misses but he probably needed the runs, having had a break after winning at Wanganui and Matamata. He must be worth another chance.

Balken Prince and Coober’s Knight returned fair first day efforts but a better prospect could be Serafina, which promises to develop useful staying form. Oscar’s Choice may surprise while fresh but like the remainder he’ll be at good odds. A small but even field will contest the second leg, the Master’s Handicap. Always Welcome has often looked above average but he doesn’t always do things right. However caught at his best in conditions likely to suit him he must be worth another chance. Camino probably needed her run on Friday and along with Reconteur, which is racing honestly, she must be

respected. However, Bold Fresh-Up runs from Barbelda. Hoi Polloi and Meed would not surprise. The former has a better record than many realise.