Consistent mare Angel Undercover will attempt to turn her recent near-misses into a major victory this Saturday when she contests the lucrative $100,000 Mandurah Cup (2010m) at Pinjarra Racecourse.
From Consistent Performer to Feature Race Contender
The Adam Durrant-trained five-year-old has developed a reputation as a gallant performer, often finding one better on the big stage. Her most recent outing saw her finish a close second in the Bunbury Stakes (1400m), a performance that confirmed her class and fighting spirit against top-tier competition.
That run followed another strong second-place finish in the Detonator Stakes (1800m) at Ascot in late December. While she has secured three wins from her 21-start career, her form in feature races suggests a breakthrough victory is imminent. The step up to the 2010-metre journey of the Mandurah Cup is viewed as ideal for her staying style.
The Mandurah Cup Field and Key Challenges
The Mandurah Cup, scheduled for Saturday, February 24, has attracted a competitive field of stayers from across Western Australia. Angel Undercover will face stiff competition, but her connections are optimistic.
Jockey Chris Parnham, who has formed a successful partnership with the mare, is slated to take the ride again. His tactical awareness will be crucial in navigating the Pinjarra circuit and ensuring Angel Undercover is in the perfect position to strike in the home straight.
The main challenge for the daughter of Playing God will be converting her consistent placings into a win at the highest level. The race represents a significant opportunity for her to claim her first major trophy and a substantial share of the $100,000 prize pool.
What a Win Would Mean for Connections
A victory in the Mandurah Cup would be a just reward for the patience shown by trainer Adam Durrant and the mare's owners. It would validate their decision to keep her in training and target these feature staying events.
Success would also elevate Angel Undercover's profile and potentially open doors to other major staying races in the autumn carnival. For now, all focus is on Pinjarra this weekend, where she will have the chance to finally swap her bridesmaid's bouquet for the winner's garland in a prestigious country cup.
The race is set to be a highlight of the Pinjarra meeting, drawing attention from racing enthusiasts keen to see if one of the state's most honest performers can secure her moment in the spotlight.
