We ring in the new year at headquarters with two runners engaged.
Flemington
Race 2 – Prairie Flower
Jockey – Declan Bates
1400m – Barrier 4
Promising filly Prairie Flower returns to Flemington today following an encouraging fresh run down the famed straight six a fortnight ago. She finished third there behind Peter Moody pair She Dances and River Noire, both of whom won strongly at Moonee Valley yesterday. It’s an excellent form reference to bring to a race like this and trainer Henry Dwyer said his three-year-old has come on nicely since her first-up run. The daughter of Star Turn runs into some capable gallopers here, most notably Papillon Club for Greg Eurell and the unbeaten Hennessy Lad for the Moody stable. Jockey Declan Bates has drawn nicely in gate four and can give Prairie Flower every chance midfield with cover at her first attempt out to 1400-metres.
Currently, Prairie Flower is a $9.50 chance in the market.
Race 5 – Irish Butterfly
Jockey – Damien Thornton
1700m – Barrier 4
Seven-year-old gelding Irish Butterfly is second-up today at 1700-metres, following a fitness-building run at Geelong in mid-December. He found the 1409-metres there far too short and will enjoy the rise in trip today, though his best will be seen third-up and beyond as he stretches out past 2000-metres. Damien Thornton has a tricky task from an inside draw, his mount’s racing pattern will see him tucked on the rails at the rear of the field throughout the event. Trainer Dwyer is happy with his galloper leading into today and is keen to see him hit the line strongly in readiness for longer trips this preparation. The market has struggled to identify a clear favourite here with five runners quoted around the $5 mark, good luck if you are investing!
Currently, Irish Butterfly is a $61 chance in the market.