Melpark Major a Chariots of Fire contender

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MELBOURNE, Aug 3 AAP – Exciting Victorian pacer Melpark Major served notice he would be a contender for the Chariots Of Fire later this month with his heat win in the Christian Cullen Cup at Moonee Valley.

Melpark Major ran the fastest of Friday night’s two heat winners at his first run back from a two month break.

The Alan Tubbs-trained Melpark Major could not have been more impressive as he easily defeated Winter Championship winner Mister Swinger.

The four-year old enjoyed a lovely trail on the back of Mister Swinger, who raced without cover, and exploded to the front on the home turn.

Reinswoman Amy Tubbs didn’t punish Melpark Major, the $1.90 favourite, who scored by two metres from Mister Swinger ($2.50) with 10 metres to Unique Style ($161).

Melpark Major brushed home his final 800m in 58.1 seconds to register a 1:57.20 mile rate for 2100m.

Keayang Hanover led throughout to win his heat rating 1:59.20.

In a thrilling finish Keayang Hanover lasted to win by a half head from Ultimate Mark with a half neck to Captain Kalahari third.

Alan Tubbs said the Christian Cullen Cup would round off Melpark Major’s preparation perfectly ahead of the $200,000 Chariots Of Fire at Harold Park on August 29.

“Amy didn’t pull the plugs until the last 50 metres and she only gave him a couple of taps with the whip,” Tubbs said.

“I can’t believe how well he’s recovered. It gives me great confidence going forward.”

Melpark Major defeated Lombo Pocket Watch, a likely adversary in the Chariots Of Fire, in the Vicbred Four-Year Old Final at Moonee Valley in late May.

Headline: Race: Melpark Major a Chariots of Fire contender

Publisher: AAPNewswire

04 Aug 10:32 AM