Angel Undercover is set to compete as the favourite in the $100,000 Integra Insurance Brokers Mandurah Cup at Pinjarra on January 7, 2024. Priced at $2.75, the five-year-old mare, trained by Simon Miller, is looking to improve on her recent performances after finishing a close second in the Boxing Day Dash.
In her last outing, Angel Undercover faced a challenging race where she had to make a long run against the front-runners. Despite the odds being stacked against her, she managed to finish just a neck behind the leader, Sky Duke, in a race that heavily favoured those who started strong. Before that, she narrowly lost to Without Reg in a thrilling finish at Ascot on December 6. The consistent support from her fans has seen her odds shorten from $3.50 to her current position, despite drawing the outside barrier of eight.
Challengers and Recent Performances
Angel Undercover will be ridden by Chris Parnham, who has previously partnered with her in significant races. Another contender in the race is Cool Memory, priced at $3.20. Cool Memory returns to the track after being the market favourite in the Hannans Handicap last October. The horse will be ridden by Holly Nottle, who has recently gained her professional riding ticket and will be making her debut in this feature race without a prior trial.
Without Reg, currently priced at $4.20, has shown solid form and will start from gate one. Kaptain Kaos, a seasoned veteran, follows closely in the market at $6. Despite a recent loss to Without Reg, Kaptain Kaos is expected to bounce back and prove his worth in the competition.
Trainer Simon Miller’s Success
Trainer Simon Miller is looking to maintain his strong momentum following a successful treble at the recent Perth Cup meeting. He trained Amaroo Star, Prospector’s Pick, and Madhi Girl to victory at Ascot, elevating him to third place in the metropolitan premiership and fourth overall in Western Australia as the season progresses.
Miller has two significant horses competing at Pinjarra. Superfluous, initially regarded as one of the best three-year-olds in Western Australia, is now priced at $3.40. After a promising trial, Miller has adjusted his training approach, focusing on shorter distances. “He’s improved since and we’ve got our stable apprentice on, Jefferson Tsang,” Miller stated. “Look for a really good forward showing.”
Miller explained that Superfluous will carry 58 kg in a Class 1 race over 1300 meters, starting from barrier four. He is expected to face competition from ex-stablemate Come On Emma, priced at $5, who recently showed promise in her debut for trainer Donna Riordan.
Later in the day, Miller will also saddle Shooting Spirit, currently at $4.40. Despite failing to secure a win in his previous three outings, Miller believes the horse is on the verge of a breakthrough. “He’s been unlucky,” he remarked, noting that the horse has faced challenges during races but is now well-positioned to compete effectively.
Miller commented positively on the increasing attendance at race events, noting a 15 percent rise in patron count at recent meetings. “The crowd was wild again,” he said, referring to the over 11,000 attendees at the Perth Cup meeting, highlighting the growing enthusiasm for the sport.
As the Mandurah Cup approaches, all eyes will be on Angel Undercover and her rivals, with the potential for a thrilling race that could redefine their careers.
