With thoroughbred racing off the calendar this weekend, harness racing flies the flag in Tasmania and punters have a pair of meetings to work with. Trainer/driver Mark Yole continues to give his thoughts in Make your Mark.
Weekend best
Launceston Race 5 – 1. Southshore
Again this bloke makes it into the article. He kept his good run going last week when he was able to lead from barrier four and run away from his rivals to win comfortably. He gets the pole draw here and I see no reason why he shouldn’t be leading and winning again.
Under the radar
Hobart Race 6 – 8. John Richard
Very left field one here. I believe this horse maps to get an excellent run behind the leader. His form looks horrible on paper, but I think he gets a great opportunity to run a much better race. Three and five starts back he actually ran some good races and was only beaten a short distance with a soft run in the race. He should get that here as I think the one horse will lead. From there he should be able to get the sprint lane and hopefully run top three.
Wish I was in the sulky
Launceston Race 9 – 6. Bridwood Bella
I really liked the way this mare hit the line last start when she never got a clear run until the winner had well and truly kicked away with a winning margin. I believe this is an easier race on Sunday. Rohan Hillier has been engaged to drive and he can either push forward to find the lead or sit up and sprint. This mare was an outstanding two-year-old and then lost her way a bit, but I believe she is just starting to realise that potential. I just think she will be too classy for her opposition.
Black booker
Launceston Race 2 – 2. Buster William
This bloke has been flying at his last two starts. He won and then was a terrific third in the feature final in Hobart. He came from last in a quick last half that was dominated by on speed runners. I have given him time to get over those two runs and have entered him here. He comes up with a lovely draw and I should be able to push forward and settle in front or outside the leader which is where he races best, and I expect him to be right in the finish.
