By MIKE DILLON
Peter Walker has no idea how good Bel Air is and he may not find out in today's $40,000 HIH Insurance Classic at Ellerslie.
Bel Air looks extremely well placed to win today's feature as he has six wins - two more than any other runner. He is the only open class horse in the field and meets the opposition at level weights.
Bel Air scored probably the easiest staying win of recent months when he stepped up to open class at Tauranga last start and made the opposition look second rate.
"He's done everything we've asked of him and he's looked better with each start," said owner and trainer Walker yesterday.
At Tauranga Lance O'Sullivan changed Bel Air's racing pattern so that he trailed rather than waiting in mid-field for a late pounce.
Bel Air raced keenly, but still exploded magnificently when asked for an effort.
"I think he's improved since Tauranga," said Walker.
"I know that's a big statement, but he certainly hasn't gone backwards."
Victory Smile has a big task with Bel Air, but he is similarly looking better with each race and his determination should be well suited to the step up to 2400m.
Spottswoode and the improvers Likely Story and Tycoon Jack are other trifecta chances.
The McKee stable's Tantamount may have been outfinished when beaten favourite at Avondale last start, but it was still a top effort and she will take a lot of beating in the $15,000 More FM Open.
Nobodywantsme, My Happiness and Bawalaksana look the dangers to Tantamount. The finish Tantamount produced to win at Te Aroha the start before would win this race.
Trevor McKee flew to Sydney last night and will make a decision on whether Sunline runs in Saturday's $A400,000 All Aged Stakes after the mare gallops tomorrow morning.
Racing: Bel Air well placed to score in feature
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