Donald
Race 8 – Spylark
Jockey – Mitch Aitken
1354m – Barrier 6
Troublesome mare Spylark resumes at Donald this afternoon, connections hoping she’s on her best behaviour in the last event on the card. The talented daughter of Niagara has contested a number of jumpouts this preparation since heading to the paddock a winner in October, trainer Henry Dwyer investing plenty of time educating his four-year-old. Jockey Mitch Aitken leaves from barrier 6 and will drift back in the early stages, watching a keen speed battle unfold up front.
A raft of runners will be looking to roll forward here, with a strong tempo expected throughout the race. This is a truly open contest after some key scratchings overnight, with hopes right down the page. We’ll start with last start winner Lika Swift, who’s now two from two on heavy tracks. He won a similar contest at Bendigo three weeks ago and gets in well after a 3kg apprentice claim. Let’s Sea has jumped out well enough to be competitive here. He has ability and could show up fresh here, but will be suited out over further. Rivivy Kenz has won two of his past three starts, both on a heavy deck, albeit in weaker grade. Little Mermaid finished on his heels last start. Others not hopeless.
Spylark has the ability to win a race of this nature, but concede she will improve from the run today. The speed looks genuine and if Aitken can get into clear running at the top of the straight, she can be finishing hard into the first three. An each way chance in a very competitive event.
Currently, Spylark is a $9.50 chance in the market.