Geoff Woodruff landed plum draws for his two chief contenders in the Gr 1 Sansui Summer Cup, Master Sabina and Deo Juvente, although it was the opposite for his other pair, Master Switch and Master ‘N Commander.

Master Sabina and Deo Juvente finished one-two in the big race last year. In 2014 Woodruff also saddled the first two past the post and in 2013 he saddled the first three and the fifth-placed horse.

Master Sabina (JC Photos)

Master Sabina will jump from barrier six in this year’s big race on November 26, while Deo Juvente jumps from draw 8. Last year they jumped from draws 7 and 18 respectively and were sent off at odds of 13/2 and 15/1 and off merit ratings of 105 and 102. This year they both have merit ratings of 106 and are priced up at 8/1 and 9/1 respectively with Betting World.

Master Switch and Master ‘N Commander drew 18 and 17 respectively and are both priced up at 25/1.

Master Sabina has the same jockey aboard as last year, Gavin Lerena, while Deo Juvente will be ridden by Anton Marcus. Master Switch has Anthony Delpech up and Master ‘N Commander is yet to have a jockey declared.

The 11/2 ruling favourite from the Sean Tarry yard, Samurai Blade, drew a favourable barrier position of four, while his 6/1 shot stablemate, Liege, drew 12.

Out of province trainers, Duncan Howells, Gavin van Zyl and Joey Ramsden have four runners between them. Howells’ fancied 9/1 chance Saratoga Dancer drew a tough 13, while 16/1 shot stablemate Ten Gun Salute drew nine. Van Zyl’s No Worries drew 10 and Ramsden’s St. Tropez drew pole position.

By David Thiselton