Don’t be fooled into thinking a change of drivers signals On The Cards as the clear horse to beat in the $50,000 JLT Futurity at Cambridge tonight, because, while top horseman Zac Butcher hopes he has pulled the right rein, he can’t be sure.
Butcher has been the long-time driver for Jack’s Legend, the former NZ Cup runner-up to Lazarus who was a sound fourth in the Auckland Cup two starts ago.
Back in a moderate four and five-year-old race he surely looks the horse to beat, especially as the small field could see him use his gate speed.
But Butcher will partner the less-credentialed Barry Purdon stablemate On The Cards, who has yet to mix it at the open class group company that Jack’s Legend has. Scott Phelan will partner Jack’s Legend (pictured).
“Ultimately the driver’s decision was up to Barry but, given the choice, I probably would have chosen On The Cards.
“Jack’s Legend is very fast, faster than On The Cards, but I thought On The Cards was super running second to Elle Mac in that 1:51 mile rate for 1700m last start.
“I could be wrong and either of them could win without surprising me but I am happy to be on On The Cards.”
Butcher admits Jack’s Legend may have more gate speed than On The Cards and could jump in front of him at the start and that, coupled with the small field being dominated by two stables (Purdon and Steve Telfer) could make for a tactical affair.
The meeting look a good punting one with plenty of races with only one or two chances so punters having a play should centre around:
Race 5: Where the draw of Trojan Banner (1) and the talent of Eastanbull (11) suggest the winners comes from them.
Race 6: Has a hot favourite in Cowgirls N Angels (2) and her only real danger looks to be Phil Bromac (7)
Race 9: Has a warm favourite in Rock N Shard (5) but both Afortunado (4) and Chosen Major (1) have hopes.