Champ Hewitson to blow hot at Fairview

Champion apprentice jockey Lyle Hewitson has a strong book of rides at the Fairview Polytrack today, including Justin Snaith-trained five-time winner Grape Vine who has the right credentials to claim top honours in Race 4 and main event, a MR 87 Handicap over 1600m.

This gelding regained form four runs back when coming from last and snatching victory over 1600m on grass at Fairview.

Then with similar tactics next time he won by an increasing 1.75 lengths over 1800m on the Polytrack. The six-year-old held form in his subsequent two runs at the same venue where he finished third over 1900m and 1600m.

With a favourable inside draw and Hewitson aboard for the first time the gelding will be hard to beat. But expect stiff rivalry from Dragon Flame, Inviting Lily and Cat In Command.

Hewitson could make an early strike in Race 2 when partnering Yvette Bremner-trained Silva Key in a MR 59 Handicap (F&M) over 1300m. Hewitson was aboard in the filly’s last three runs at the Polytrack where she was twice a winner over 1200m and fifth over 1000m.

The four-year-old should recover the losses this time when stepping up in distance. Best of the others are Meritocracy, Rainbow Skink and Vanda.

Hewitson could also come to light on Bremner’s two-time winner Zama who contests Race 5, a MR 68 Handicap over 1600m. Hewitson knows what is required as he was aboard in both the gelding’s wins over the course and distance.

The five-year-old comes off an encouraging last run when third over the course and distance. With a good draw again and carrying less weight he should win.

Snaith-trained Tiffindell showed smart improvement in her last two runs over ground when second at Fairview and then third at Durbanville. The four-year-old should crack her second career win this time when teamed up with Hewitson in Race 6, a Conditions Plate (F&M) over 2200m. She could be followed home by Chit Chat, Christmas Carol and Morethanthat.