Terang
Race 1 – Lily Luella
Jockey – Tahlia Hope
1600m – Barrier 6
Maiden filly Lily Luella has her second race start at Terang today, stepping out to a mile after a moderate debut at Geelong. She found the 1309-metres too sharp there and will likely find today’s trip the same, but trainer Dwyer will be hoping his three-year-old can run strongly through the line with a view to 2000-metres next start. Maher/Eustace debut their latest European import Zoom in this event and he presents as the hardest to beat here. Jockey Tahlia Hope will drift back from a middle gate, allowing her mount to settle into her rhythm before asking her to stretch out in the run home.
Currently, Lily Luella is a $61 chance in the market.
Race 5 – Morpurgo
Jockey – Mitch Aitken
2150m – Barrier 8
Four-year-old stayer Morpurgo comes here fourth-up and hard fit as he looks to build on a good run at Wangaratta three weeks ago. The gelded son of Toronado loomed up and looked the winner there before peaking on his run late, finishing third when beaten a long neck. His normal racing style sees him settle rearward and work into the race late, but the pattern of the day may dictate a change in tactics. Dwyer has indicated he may instruct Mitch Aitken to go forward from the outset should the track be favouring those on-speed, making the race a true staying contest. The two dangers appear to be Glitter ‘N’ Gold who is racing well and Takumi who will enjoy the drop in class. If Morpurgo is switched on and ready to race he will prove hard to beat this afternoon.
Currently, Morpurgo is a $5 chance in the market.
Race 6 – Our Destrier
Jockey – Mitch Aitken
1125m – Barrier 1
Stable debutant Our Destrier is first-up since August where he ran midfield in the 2050-metre Darwin Cup. The six-year-old was sound in a recent trial at this track and will use today’s run as a good fitness boost as he works towards a mile later in the preparation. Mitch Aitken can settle leaders’ back on the rail from his inside draw and look to peel out at the top of the straight. Though he’ll likely find a few of these too slick for him, a top-four finish would be a good result and a solid way to begin his campaign. Bill The Boxer will start a short-priced favourite but As I Please must be considered a winning hope.
Currently, Our Destrier is a $16 chance in the market.