An inside barrier draw could prove the key to the chances of Just Leica scoring a deserved win in the $20,000 Stratford Cup (2000m) at Stratford tomorrow.
Just Leica has been plagued by outside barrier draws in recent starts but will start from No 1 in the Cambridge Thoroughbred Sale Stratford Cup.
"He hasn't drawn any closer in than 10 all his starts this campaign," said Just Leica's trainer Paul Belsham.
"As a result we have been forced to ride him back in the field and it hasn't really suited him, so it is good to see him get a decent draw."
Belsham said he would instruct rider Darryn Weatherley to take up a handy position.
"I haven't had a good look at the field yet, but he will definitely be ridden handier to the pace than he has been."
Just Leica's last win was five starts back over 1400m at Rotorua on October 7.
His form in four starts since has been useful and includes a fourth, 1-1/2 lengths from the winner, All American, in the Wanganui Cup (2000m) before coming with a powerful finish to be fourth over 2000m at Awapuni on December 16.
Belsham said Just Leica had thrived since the Awapuni race.
He was thrilled with the way the horse had taken to his work this week.
"He's spot on at the moment."
But track conditions on the day could be a significant concern.
"I hope the rain they are predicting does not affect the track too much.
"He doesn't like it when it gets shifty."
The main dangers to Just Leica could be topweight and free-goer Greene Street.
If allowed to dictate his own rules in front, Greene Street could take some pegging back.
It would be no surprise to see Seeking prominent at the finish.
He went a bold race for fourth behind Bexley over 1600m and should be suited by the extra distance tomorrow.
Stray Away and Strauss's Delight are both promising middle-distance gallopers who are showing good form and deserve respect.
- NZPA
Racing: Barrier key for Just Leica win
AdvertisementAdvertise with NZME.