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By Mark Brassel

Local trainer Mack Griffith will be striving to continue the stable’s fantastic run with three gallopers primed for next Sunday’s Mudgee meeting.

Griffith has snared 15 winners from his past 44 starters returning a remarkable 34% strike rate.

Medinah (Aaron Bullock; red & black) holds on strongly to score at Mudgee. Image by Janian McMillan (Racing Photography)

“We’ve been going along alright and hopefully we can keep it up,” Griffith said.

The stable will be represented by Medinah and Aimpoint in the feature, the $27,000 XXXX Mudgee Mug (1400m), along with Sanzeno in the $27,000 Class 1 Handicap (1200m).

All three gallopers have previously won at Mudgee and are all cast-offs with Medinah having been with Danny O’Brien in Victoria, Aimpoint with James Cummings and Sanzeno with Grahame Begg down south.

Medinah won at Mudgee in February and July and was a last start fifth to Intervarsity in a Highway at Rosehill Gardens.

“He held on well in that race and was on the worst part of the track,” Griffith said.

Aimpoint won at Dubbo three starts back over 1600m and last start was third in the Ken Howard Cup (2000m) on Coffs Harbour Cup Day.

The gelding led and kicked clear on straightening but was run down late.

“It was a top run as he was left a sitting shot near the post. He’s being aimed at the Bathurst Cup [1800m] the following week.”

Sanzero was impressive winning at Mudgee in July and last start had no luck when down the track at Dubbo.

The XXXX Gold Mudgee Mug

“He drew the outside gate, and the jockey tried to get in but couldn’t – he ended up being four and five wide the entire trip, so the run must be overlooked.

“He hasn’t had much luck with the barriers and it’s about time he drew a decent gate. He’s quite a smart horse and I have a bit of time for him.”

Mudgee seven-race card is offering a total of $195,000 in prizemoney.

“This is the perfect opportunity for regular punters, friends, family and first-time racegoers to experience the renowned, friendly hospitality that only the country races can offer,” said Mudgee Race Club representative, Deb Patison.

“Our Fashions on the Field provides ladies, gents, kids and couples the chance to dress to impress and win some fabulous prizes.

“It will be an enjoyable and unique racing experience where racegoers can get up close and personal with all the action whilst relaxing in beautiful country surrounds.

“Catering for lunch at the races is easy with pre-ordered grazing or cheese boxes and delicious food from Nackers and the MRC Canteen.

“A full bar is available showcasing Tooheys and XXXX products, Robert Oatley Wines, bubbles, RTD spirits and soft drink.

“And there’s plenty of seating options from tables and umbrellas on the concourse to BYO picnic rugs or undercover tables and seats on the veranda.

“Our Club’s welcoming staff, location and fun atmosphere guarantees patrons a wonderful raceday experience.”

Meanwhile on Thursday, Wagga will stage its Racing NSW Country Showcase meeting with $275,000 in prizemoney, highlighted by the $35,000 Showcase Ian Reid Sprint (1200m) along with a $50,000 Super Maiden (1000m).

UPCOMING NSW COUNTRY RACE MEETINGS
Monday: Kempsey, Wellington
Thursday: Wagga, Coffs Harbour
Saturday: Orange, Mendooran (non-TAB)
Sunday: Mudgee, Gundagai