13 January 2023 | Mark Yole for Tasracing
It’s a back-to-back weekend of harness racing with Launceston on Saturday night, followed by Hobart on Sunday evening. Read the thoughts of trainer-driver Mark Yole in his weekly Tasracing column.
Weekend best
Hobart Race 5 – 1. Priddy Easy
A very tough weekend coming up. I’ve gone with this fellow as my best courtesy of a great draw. His run a few weeks ago first up in the state was enormous. He showed good gate speed from wide out on the track but was held up through the first 27 quarter, he did then over race and take up the lead at the bell when that runner dropped out. He was then left a sitting shot for a swooper and that’s what happened. Here he gets an ideal draw and with the benefit of that run I feel his trainer will be able to have him even better for this. He should lead again and providing he settles in front he will be giving a great showing.
Under the radar
I’m very happy with how this horse is going. He has been horribly held up at his last two starts from poor draws. Here he comes up with a much better draw. He should be able to push forward early, take up a handy position in the first few, and he should be able to get into clear air over the final 400m and be very hard to beat at the end of what looks like a long night.
Best value
Another that is an each-way chance. He comes up with a good draw and while his form of late hasn’t been all that great, he gets his opportunity over the mile distance. He has blistering gate speed so I expect him to cross early and lead and if I can get him to settle in front, he will be right in this.
Wish I was in the sulky
Hobart Race 2 – 6. Queen Treacherie
This one is a pretty straight forward selection. This Emma Stewart-trained former kiwi put the writing on the wall last week when in a similar field to what she meets here. Although drawn a little wide, Allan McDonough will take his time and balance her up then push the button and either lead or sit outside anyone brave enough to hold her out. From there she will be much too good and at the short price will be a lock for the multiple punters out there.
Approved By Dean Baring www.harnessbred.com
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