Theresa Bateup will be looking to add another trophy to the cabinet at Moruya on Sunday, with 2025 Bega Cup winner, Direct Fire, set to tackle the $30,000 Narooma Cup (1300m).
A four-time winner, the Kembla Grange galloper gets in nicely with gate four and the services of Amy McLucas (58.5kg).
Five runs into his preparation, the 5YO Dracarys gelding put in his best effort two starts back, finishing third in the 1500m Benchmark 64 Handicap at Kembla Grange on October 25.
Never far away, Direct Fire is drawn to get a nice run in transit at Moruya, and all going fairly, will be ready to pounce when push comes to shove.
Also racing at Moruya is first starter Elle Tee (Claire Ramsbotham) in the 1300m Super Maiden Plate.
The 4YO Odyssey Moon mare has been doing everything right at home and deserves the chance to be tested in the $50,000 event.
Connections have drawn kindly with gate five, but it is a deep maiden, with a few tried gallopers boasting good recent form.
Rounding out the stable’s chances at Moruya is Kickamushu (Coriah Keatings) in the Christmas Cup Benchmark 58 Handicap (1425m).
Tested in stronger company last time out when taking on the Belle Of The South Sprint (1200m) at Nowra, the 5YO Scissor Kick mare will appreciate the rise in distance and drop in class at Moruya.
Words: Jeff Hanson
Image: Bradley Photos