Mac Bon. Photo by Club Menangle
Western District owners Jason Gaffney and Mark, Greg, and Bailey Hartwig are daring to dream as they head to Bathurst to watch two of their pacers Captain Jazz and Mac Bon chase feature wins as the Gold Crown Carnival draws to a close.
Their youngsters have realistic winning chances in their respective finals and there is nothing more exciting for owners to be part of feature races held on their back doorstep. The Forbes-based syndicate has enjoyed a wonderful ride over the past few seasons, racing a number of smart pacers including boom Queensland based mares Uptown Beachgirl and Chynchilla but they get the chance to replicate that success on home soil on Saturday night.
Mach Bon claimed success in the Two-Year-Old Breeders Crown final at Melton last November and has returned as a three-year-old in fine fettle, contesting the NSW Derby where he had no luck.
On Saturday night, from gate four, the colt is one of the favoured runners amongst a quality field in the $100,000 Gold Chalice final for trainer Luke McCarthy and driver Chris Geary.
And the Forbes boys newest star, two-year-old filly Captain Jazz who is unbeaten to date, will take on a star line-up in the $150,000 Gold Tiara final for her trainer, driver Mat Rue.
The daughter of Captain Crunch will start from the inside of the second row but was most impressive when winning her qualifying heat ten days ago when she demolished her rivals to score by a widening seventeen-metre margin.
Syndicate spokesperson Jason Gaffney was over the moon when learning of their two finalists draws which he described as being spot-on and was equally happy with their respective winning performances.
“It is a great thrill to be involved in such a big night in our own backyard and having two live chances,” said Jason.
“Captain Jazz has always given us the feeling from day one that she would be up to this grade and Mat has her absolutely flying.
“But we are not kidding ourselves though, it is a nice field, and she will have step up another level to win it.
“She has a comfy draw and with an ounce of luck, will get her chance.
“As for Mach Bon he just seems to be getting better with racing.
“Luke is the best in the business and has managed our fella so well.”
