Champion pacer Leap To Fame is set to make a significant shift in his racing style at Albion Park this Saturday night. This move marks only the second time in over four years and 65 race starts that Leap To Fame will transition from mobile start to standing-start racing. The six-year-old’s previous standing-start race resulted in a remarkable victory despite starting off a 20m handicap. This time, he faces a tougher challenge with a 30m handicap over a shorter 2138m trip.
Trainer-driver Grant Dixon, who expressed confidence in Leap To Fame’s ability, decided to enter him in the standing-start race after his recent victory at Albion Park. Dixon believes that this unconventional race format will provide valuable conditioning for the horse, especially considering potential future events like the NZ Cup, which also feature standing starts. Despite upcoming races like the Flashing Red and Redcliffe Cups, Dixon sees this as a strategic opportunity to prepare Leap To Fame for the unique demands of standing-start competitions.
Dixon’s decision to race Leap To Fame again this week is part of a calculated plan to ensure the pacer is adequately prepared for the Inter Dominion heats in July. By participating in the standing-start event at Albion Park, Leap To Fame will benefit from a better conditioning run compared to a traditional mobile start race. This approach allows for a more structured lead-up to the main event, with Dixon aiming for a three-week interval between races to optimize the horse’s performance.
As Leap To Fame gears up for his next challenge, his main rival, Don Hugo, is also making a return to the track. Don Hugo, who previously bested Leap To Fame in the Miracle Mile, will face off against his competitor once again. The two pacers have a competitive history, with Leap To Fame currently holding a 2-1 lead in their head-to-head matchups. Their ongoing rivalry adds an extra layer of excitement to the harness racing scene, captivating fans and enthusiasts alike.
Harness racing enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the upcoming showdown between Leap To Fame and Don Hugo, as these elite pacers continue to push the boundaries of the sport. With both horses showcasing exceptional talent and determination, each race serves as a thrilling display of skill and strategy. As the competition heats up, fans can expect a fierce battle for supremacy on the track, highlighting the excitement and unpredictability that define the world of harness racing.
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