Maher-trained Dad And Dave chasing Tasmanian 3YO double

Dad And Dave will attempt to become the fourth horse in as many years to complete the Launceston Guineas–Tasmanian Derby double at Elwick on Friday.

The three-year-old will also be chasing a second Tasmanian Derby victory for the all-conquering Ciaron Maher stable, which last claimed the race with Explosive Jack in 2021.

Explosive Jack went on from his Hobart success to win the ATC Australian Derby at Randwick and the South Australian Derby at Morphettville before finishing third in the Queensland Derby at Eagle Farm.

Dad And Dave heads into the feature staying contest off a last-start victory in the Listed Launceston Guineas over 2000 metres.

The gelding will be aiming to join Dunkel (2023), Bold Soul (2024) and Likeakalix as recent three-year-olds to pull off Tasmania’s Guineas–Derby double.

He is the second favourite behind fellow Victorain-trained runner Johnich.

Tasmanian racing followers can enjoy coverage of Derby day on Racing.com, which will broadcast three feature races.