Newly adopted Victorian trotter Our Overanova will start this weekend in the Gr.1 Pryde’s Easifeed Great Southern Star at TABCORP Park, Melton.
Recently transferred to the stables of talented horseman Mick Stanley at Burrumbeet, near Ballarat, Our Overanova lines up in the second $50,000 qualifying heat where he takes on star performers Keystone Del and boom Kiwi Speeding Spur.
Our Overanova will start from gate four in the 1720m feature event.
And a forward showing is expected according to his new mentor.
“He’s a great addition to the stable and although we’re still getting to know one another, he’s in great order and I’m confident he can do enough to qualify for the final. This is something new for both of us but I’m looking forward to the challenge.” Stanley said.
The Great Southern Star is the ultimate test of speed and endurance, this event will showcase the very best of Australasian Trotting. It is the only event of its type in the Southern Hemisphere with horses racing off in Elimination Heats in order to qualify for a starting place in the Final on the same program.
Total stakes for this year’s event will be $400,000.
In order to qualify for the final which caters for ten runners, both qualifying heat winners gain automatic entry while the remaining eight places in the final will be taken by the horses with the eight fastest times from the two elimination heats.
Our Overanova had little luck last start in the Gr.1 $54,000 Trotters Cup at TABCORP Park, Menangle when 9th behind On Thunder Road after copping an early check before making a break himself.
The Monarchy gelding is yet to miss to place in three starts at Melton to date.
“We’re clearly in the strongest heat with the likes of Keystone Del and Speeding Spur among others lining up but I’m more than happy with the way he’s worked for me in preparation for this series since he arrived last week.
“His overall record is very impressive and every time he’s ventured south previously, he’s always performed well including his efforts down here last year when he was with Luke and Belinda (McCarthy).
“While I’m yet to discuss tactics with Greg (Mitchell – owner), my early thoughts are to go back at the start because I can see plenty of early pressure with the likes of Michael Thomas, El Paco and Speeding Spur all looking to go forward to work Keystone Del from his inside draw. But that decision will ultimately rest with Greg so I’m fairly open at this point, I’m sure we’ll work out a game plan which will give us a great opportunity of qualifying.”
Meanwhile, Stanley was active at last week’s Australian Pacing Gold yearling sale in Brisbane with owner Grantley Davis securing two lots.
Davis paid $15,000 for lot 427, an Always A Virgin – Layback Cullen filly before buying lot 449, a Shadow Play – Too Much Rum colt for $13,000.
Both youngsters are eligible for the exclusive $100,000 Sales race next year at Albion Park.
Approved By Dean Baring www.harnessbred.com
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