Sydney In County's Sights

Newcastle Herald

Saturday March 8, 2008

By GEOFF WILSON

NEWCASTLE'S ageless warrior County Tyrone can show today that he is on track for his sixth straight run in the group 1 Sydney Cup.

County Tyrone runs in the Parramatta Cup over 2000 metres at Rosehill as a vital lead-up to this year's 3200m staying classic.

"The 2000m is perfect for him at his third run from a spell," trainer Kris Lees said yesterday.

"Obviously he is being set for the Sydney Cup again, but I would not be surprised if he goes real well on Saturday.

"Old County is going as good as ever, he is keen and this distance and type of field would seem perfect right now for him. If things go well on Saturday, he will have a month break and then will have two quick runs before the Sydney Cup."

Jim Cassidy renews his association with County Tyrone.

"Jimmy gets the best out of the old horse, and if you look at County's record compared to the rest of them, you can work out he is well placed," Lees said.

Lees has the chance of a listed double at Rosehill today.

As well as County Tyrone, he will start in-form mare Fritz's Princess in the listed Triscay Stakes over 1200m.

"Fritz's Princess's only problem is that she has drawn gate 16," Lees said.

"But she does get back, and most of the other fancies in the race have drawn off the track as well.

"She did well first-up and deserves a crack at winning a black-type race.

"She has been placed in black-type events but is yet to win one."

© 2008 Newcastle Herald

Back to News Index | Back to Home