Ricky Maund explained his decision to send Coupe Express to Morphettville yesterday, “She is racing in her career best form and deserves a chance at city grade”. It proved to be a winning decision. “Even though she has won two of her recent starts from the front I let Todd know that she didn’t have to be ridden forward”.
Coupe Express jumped well in the 0-82 mares race over 1,200 metres, but Todd Pannell didn’t push her in the early stages, and that decision allowed her to be strong in the closing stages. Finishing fast she bobbed her head when it mattered to edge out Kill Bill who ran a game second. Race Replay R4 Morphettville 05 July 14
The win was Lauriston Throughbred Farm’s Coupe Express’ sixth – her third victory from her last five starts and took her career earnings to more than $90,000.
Coupe Express was not the only horse in the orange and green to salute yesterday. Equissential resumed after a lengthy break at Toowoomba in a benchmark 75 race over 1,200 metres. With apprentice Emma Ljung up the rising 7yo bullocked his way into clear running room before powering to the line to win by over a length.
It was the eighth win for the Neville Saunders trained gelding and raised his prize money beyond $330,000. “He’s returned in great shape and I’m really looking forward to this preparation”.
