Mark Wallis, renowned champion trainer, finds himself trailing Liz McNair by a significant 45 points in the Trainers Championship race, a position unfamiliar to him. However, Wallis remains confident in his strategy, relying on his dogs' finishing prowess and the upcoming volume of staying competitions later in the year to make up ground.
His immediate focus lies on the Coral Brighton Belle, where he handles three of the semi-finalists, facing off against the five KSS-owned contenders. Leading the charge for Wallis is Crafty Shivoo, the ante-post favorite at 6/4 odds, with the next four contenders in the betting all hailing from McNair's kennel.
Speaking of Crafty Shivoo, Wallis expressed confidence in her abilities, highlighting her improvement since returning from injury and seasonal rest. He sees her as a formidable contender for the Derby, despite the historical odds against female winners. With Crafty Shivoo's impressive track record and strength, Wallis believes this might be the year for a female triumph in the prestigious event.
Looking ahead, Crafty Shivoo is set to represent Wallis's kennel in the 'bitch' section of PGR Judgement Night at Hove on May 4, a competition Wallis has won four times before. His carefully curated team for the event includes Quarteira, Newinn Syd, Ballymac John, Garfiney Blaze, and possibly Ranchers Wolf, pending the outcome of the Maiden Derby.
However, setbacks have sidelined another promising prospect, Gun Slinger, from participating in upcoming events due to recent setbacks since joining the kennel.
While the KSS Syndicate may enter eight or nine contenders for the Derby, Wallis's team will likely comprise Crafty Shivoo and two middle-distance runners from Hove and Whyaye Man. Additionally, there's a possibility of New Destiny's return if she fully recovers from an Achilles problem in time for the races.