Willyconker likely to dominate proceedings in Mervin H. Muniz Jr. Memorial Handicap at Fair Grounds
The spectators at Fair Grounds are set to witness an exciting event on Sunday, April 1st. The Grade 2 Mervin H. Muniz Jr. Memorial Handicap has attracted some speedy runners, who will pursue a hefty cash prize worth $400,000.
Among the confirmed entries are:
Willyconker,
Slow Pace,
Wilkinson,
Smart Bid,
Swift Warrior,
Casino Host,
Suntracer,
Mr. Vegas,
Mister Marti Gras,
Joinem, and
Papaw Bodie.
Mr. Vegas is most likely to earn the highest starting price following his consistent performance this season. However, the punters should not overlook Willyconker, who is in fine rhythm at the moment.
The five-year-old started off this year with a decent performance at Santa Anita, where he secured a second position, in the Arcadia Stakes.
It was definitely a satisfying outcome for his connections, as he narrowly missed the top slot.
His critics had to seal their lips, when Willyconker displayed a thumping performance at the start of March 2012. In the Grade 1 Frank E Kilroe Mile Stakes, the bay gelding upset the 4-5 favourite, Mr. Commons, by a neck distance to win £116,129.03.
An even bigger purse is waiting for Doug O'Neill’s trainee today. Although he is full of confidence after his two brilliant performances, he cannot afford to complacent.
Without a doubt, there are a few dangerous contenders, who can easily fancy their chances. Mr. Vegas looks in good position to outplay his rivals.
Despite the fact that the five-year-old remained unlucky last time out, he cannot be taken lightly.
On February 25, Smart Bid managed to beat Mr. Vegas by a head distance to win Fair Grounds Handicap. Not losing his determination, Mr. Vegas came hard in his subsequent outing, winning Colonel E R Bradley Handicap by one and a half lengths.
Smart Bid is not one of the consistent runners, but his recent victory over Mr. Vegas prompted the bookies to give him decent odds for today’s clash.
The bay and brown horse holds an ability to create an upset, but the real clash will be between Mr. Vegas and Willyconker.
The latter has a slight psychological edge, as he is more experienced. No matter who grabs victory, the Grade 2 event will be quite entertaining.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are the writer's own and do not reflect Bettor.Com’s editorial policy.
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