Pinjarra trainer Brett Pope takes two runners to Belmont on Wednesday and rates his chances highly with Tarquinn Shadow and Whataplan.
Trade Fair filly Tarquinn Shadow has drawn barrier one for jockey, Peter Hall, as she tackles older gallopers in the 92.9 Handicap (1650m).
The three-year-old posted a strong win on her home track two starts back and made good ground when third to Discoville at Belmont a week ago.
“It was a great run after getting back on the fence,” said Pope on TABradio.
“She hit the line quite well and I’m more than pleased with how she is going.
“She has won a couple now and the 1650m should suit her.
“She is a tough filly who has trained on well.
“She is a big strider so barrier one is a little concern
“She is a big mover who needs to wind into it.
“Hopefully she can get some room.”
Other hopes in the race include Minyulo Miss who will strip fitter after only getting warmed up late when eighth to Gondiggin last week.
The Ivan Haggerty-trained mare was returning off a short break and a ripping campaign where she put together a winning hatrick.
The only query for Minyulo Miss and her supporters will be the journey, all three of her career victories have been over 2000m.
Neville Parnham’s team will also exert a major influence led by Gondiggin, Futurism and Theodora.
The trio locked horns last week with Gondiggin earning bragging rights with a narrow neck victory over Futurism.
Theodora faded to fifth but a recent virus could explain her past two failures after a slashing win two starts back.
In form mare Mystic Dust steps up in search of her first city success after consecutive wins at Bunbury and York.
Meanwhile earlier in the Channel 9 Handicap, Pope has changed tack and elected to give Whataplan a hit out over 1000m.
The Saxon gelding was tried over 1500m at Ascot in April, but couldn’t meet the challenge when unplaced behind Night Prowler.
The five-year-old was denied a winning hat trick after defeating Vigorhesta (1200m) and Diversicolour (1410m) at Bunbury.
“He’s had a freshen-up and should sprint well,” said Pope.
“He is quite fit and ready to go.”
Julio Santarelli
www.rwwa.com.au
