Racing: Firm Great Northern track foxes the Brownes

Ann Browne is happy to put her hands up and admit she is not sure what the stable's best chances are in the Great Northerns.

The Ken and Ann Browne stable is traditionally the best guide to the No 1 jumping weekend of the year.

They have won the Great Northern Steeplechase.

On a firm surface, which is likely, she says Drizzle in the Hurdles and Nasser in the Steeplechase are the camp's best.

Like many she is confused by the firmer track conditions than we normally see for Great Northern week.

"I really don't know," she says candidly.

"I've waited all year for Drizzle for this race, but I've got no idea how he will go if the track comes up firm.

"At his best he's good as the best of them - he showed that last year.

"Like most of them he's at the end of his season."

Ann Browne gives little-experienced Waikiki Prince a chance of getting some of the Great Northern money.

The Steeplechase confuses her as mush as it does punters.

Ann Browne would like to see a wet track for The Storytella.

Nasser grabs her attention.

"He hasn't raced that often and there is a question whether he is good enough, but he stays on well and the Great Northern is all about staying the distance.

"The Storytella is the only horse of ours that has started in the race, but he probably needs some rain."

Bit Of A Myth, she says, is only a place chance.

A race the Brownes have dominated may see them play a supporting role this year.

The TAB's betting on the race is: $3.25 Real Tonic, $5.50 Bart, $6 The Storytella, Nasser, $7 Nasser, $10 Imperial Warrior, $12 Deceit, $16 Kia King, $18 Bit Of A Myth.

The top of the TAB's betting on the Hurdles is: $5.50 Starbo, $6.50 Van Winkle, $8 Drizzle, High Season, $10 Just A Swagger, $12 Midnight Opal, $13 Coup South, $15 Sir Rebbie.