16 February 2023 | Mark Yole for Tasracing
It’s another weekend of two Tasmanian harness meetings with both of the state’s main tracks in action. Read the thoughts of trainer-driver Mark Yole who currently sits atop the drivers’ premiership with 16 wins.
Weekend best
Hobart race 4 – 7. Im Rock Solid
What a tough effort from this gelding last start in Carrick. From the wide draw I slotted in out of the mobile then made a mid-race move to sit outside the leader when the leaders backed off the tempo. From there we were able to increase the tempo over the last lap and he managed to hold on to beat the swoopers. Shane has done an outstanding job with this pacer, and he always presents him in top order. Here we have another tough draw, but if I can work forward and slot in to the running line ,I only need a bit of luck and he will be right in the finish again.
Under the radar
Launceston race 3 – 9. Beast Mode
Not a lot of luck of late for this guy, he had a horror draw two starts ago in Hobart where he got well back and worked home nicely out wide. Then last start went to Burnie where he got badly held up when horses locked wheels in front of him and never got a crack. Here he has a nice trailing draw and if I can save him for one dash at them, I think he will give a great sight.
Wish I was in the sulky
Very consistent runner and although he has drawn outside the front, I believe he will be tough enough to overcome it. He does have a tendency to just do what he has too which can sometimes leave him a sitting shot for one with high speed. However, he should go forward and sit outside the leader here and if he runs a genuine tempo, it will take the speed out of his rivals. He should be too good.
Best value
Hobart race 7 – 8. Rock On Playboy
Going the way of the old boy here. He has found some form of late and broke through for an overdue win here two starts back. That was in a very similar field to what he meets here and although it’s a tricky draw he has shown that he can overcome that over the longer distance. Last start he had to work mid-race to get around a horse dropping out in front of him and I thought he battled away well.
Approved By Dean Baring www.harnessbred.com
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