Bunbury Cup – 2023

Track: Good   Weather: Fine

There are 10 runners for the $150,000 Bunbury Cup and they are all geldings. There are three 5YOs, two 6YOs, three 7YOs and two 8YOs. Eight runners had their last start in the Detonator Stakes over 1800m at Ascot on 25 February and the other 2 came via a Rating 66+ Handicap over 2200m at Ascot on the same day. True Attraction dead-heated for the win last year and returns, as does Utgard Loki who was 3rd last year. Trainers Adam Durrant, Stephen Miller and Neville Parnham each have 2 runners.

The early favourite is Casino Seventeen who was narrowly beaten as a favourite over 2200m last start at Ascot after winning his 2 previous starts. Second favourite is No Apology who finished 2nd in the Detonator Stakes. Third favourite is Neufbosc who was 5th in that race and is suited by the rise in trip. Black Shadow was 3rd in the Detonator Stakes, while Blazing Away has ran 3rd over 2200m at Ascot at his last 2 starts. All other runners are currently $15 or more.

1. Neufbosc (10)

The quality runner of the field who has a Group 2 win and a Group 3 win. One of 2 runners for Neville Parnham. Ground past a few for 5th in the Detonator Stakes and the rise in trip suits. Well placed.

2. True Attraction (1)

Last year he came equal 1st in this race with Paddy’s Shadow. Drawn ideally in barrier 1 but has only beaten one runner home in his last 3 starts. Looking elsewhere.

3. No Apology (2)

One of 2 runners for Stephen Miller. Came 2nd in the Detonator Stakes and is one of the major chances here.

4. Black Shadow (9)

Kept coming steadily to run 3rd in the Detonator. Has won 10 of 57 starts and can place here.

5. Utgard Loki (3)

One of 2 runners for Adam Durrant. Finished 3rd in this race last year. Finished 9th in the Detonator but capable of rapid improvement.

6. Casino Seventeen (5)

Was narrowly beaten as a favourite over 2200m last start at Ascot after winning his 2 previous starts over 1800m and 2200m. He has had 8 runs this campaign for 2 wins, 3 2nds, 2 3rds and a 4th. Very consistent and is a strong chance here.

7. Come Right Back (6)

Finished midfield in the Detonator. Not the worst.

8. Blazing Away (4)

Has ran 3rd over 2200m at Ascot at his last 2 starts. Having his first try at Listed level. Place chance.

9. Bruce Almighty (7)

Finished 7th in the Detonator. Hasn’t won beyond 1600m. Seems unlikely.

10. General Grant (8)

Has had 2 starts this campaign for 9th in the Ascot Mile then 8th in the Detonator. Not here.

The following are the top 4 selections for this years race.