2022 Turf Tips

Well, 2022 is off to a flying start in the Challenge Stakes with ‘Covid Omicron’ the front runner at this stage.  Only half a head behind is ‘New Zealand Economy’ with ‘Climate Change’ and ‘Social Inequity’ a length further back.  At the tail of the field and struggling to stay with the main bunch is ‘Local Government’ although one has to admire the staying power.  ‘Local Government’ definitely looks like it’s struggling with track conditions. 

‘Covid Omicron’ has been the favourite pick for some time although there is still speculation over his actual abilities.  What is known is that he is a descendent of the well known ‘Covid Delta’ who won a great many Challenge Stakes overseas but was for the most part, prevented from racing in New Zealand.

‘Covid Delta’ is still seen at smaller meets however ‘Covid Omicron’ has been proven to be much faster, harder to beat than his predecessor and definitely bred for the conditions.

‘New Zealand Economy’ has been a star performer on many different tracks although there is now some doubt being cast of over her soundness given the rough going at present. 

It appears as if ‘New Zealand Economy’ may have had undisclosed additives in her feed and with supply chain problems these additives are increasingly hard to find.  Given the Challenge Stakes is a long-distance race one wonders if ‘New Zealand Economy’ will actually make it to the end?

‘Social Inequity’ is one to watch.  A late starter, this gelding just keeps moving up the placings quietly knocking off other runners in the field.  By teaming up with the Covid stable, ‘Social Inequity’ is assuring himself of a placing and would be a good pick in the trifecta.  Should the Covid stable lose their form then ‘Social Inequity’ will just about be assured first place with ‘Climate Change’ a close second.

Finally, ‘Local Government’ although trailing should not be dismissed just yet.  It is a stoical runner that many punters rely on to keep the race honest.  The trouble is that the current owners are set to put the shareholding up for grabs in October and the ‘Challenge Stakes’ will most certainly still be running.  Another change in the feed regime could see ‘Local Government’ breakdown completely and be humanely destroyed.

So, the 2022 Challenge Stakes is underway but with a long way to go yet.  Based on current form, ‘Covid Omicron’ and ‘Social Inequity’ are expected to take the quinella with ‘Climate Change’ coming in third place.  ‘New Zealand Economy’ should finish but as a shadow of her former self and will require a rest with veterinary attention.  If the track smooths out then expect ‘Local Government’ to be midfield with a solid but uninspiring run.  Other starters like ‘Tourism’, ‘Affordable Housing’, ‘Health Care’ and ‘Personal Choice’ no doubt will demand more attention as they jostle for a run at the finish line.

Adrienne Staples 

 – disclaimer, The writer has an interest in Local Government.