Racing: Chance to hit jackpot

Gold Card gets a chance to end nearly two years away from winning in tomorrow's Tauranga Hardware and Plumbing 1200.

The Awapuni visitor will relish the wet conditions he is likely to strike.

Gold Card won his last race on June 6, 2011 - 18 runs back - but he hasn't been totally idle.

For trainers Laurie Christensen and Cushla East he has run in eight minor placings in that time.

His latest form has been excellent. On footing firmer than he prefers he was beaten by only a head when he split Denlee and Travino in a premier 1400m at Trentham, then last start finished second again, this time to Hell Yeah.

Starguru's record in the wet is first class, making him the one to beat. Overall, this is slightly easier than the races he has been tackling lately.

Irish Encore has class and plenty of speed, but it's doubtful he will be suited by the track.

Meanwhile, Endorsement rarely fails to give his supporters a good run for their money and the 4-year-old is expected to continue that trend at Dargaville today.

The son of Nadeem has been dependable throughout his career and trainer Bruce Wallace sees no reason why he won't be right in the fight again in the Rating 75 Lion Red Hcp.

"He's a door knocker and he just keeps running good races," he said. "He's a very genuine horse and we've tried him up in grade a few times and he's run just the same."

Endorsement was runner-up at Trentham to subsequent Easter Hcp placegetter Tyne Cot earlier this year and he hasn't missed a beat since.

He followed up with a third at Te Rapa and then finished in the money in subsequent Ellerslie appearances. He was ridden two runs back by Mark Hills, who has the mount today.

One of Endorsement's main rivals could be the Ralph Manning-trained High Roller, who has impressed with three wins in a light career and has been placed on the course.

-Additional reporting: NZ Racing Desk