Santagostino scored a fine win in the Gold Coast Bracelet this month. File Photo
Understandably, premiership leader Mark Walker has his eye more on Queensland riches than the action at Avondale today.
The Matamata trainer struck first blood for the Kiwis across the Tasman with his exciting Oaks prospect Santagostino in the Gold Coast Bracelet earlier this month, while talented filly Huluava
announced her arrival with a first-up second at Eagle Farm.
But Walker still has the firepower left on the home-front to stretch his two-win cushion over nearest rival Stephen McKee.
He openly admits, though, he could need some luck today.
The royally bred Pertinacious (race eight) and Opportunity Knocks (race nine) look to be his main chances on paper.
But both are signing off on their 3-year-old campaigns, with the latter especially ready for a well-earned spell.
Walker says Opportunity Knocks, the winner of two from 12 tries, had everything in his favour last time out when scoring easily over 2300m against R70 rivals at Otaki on May 5.
Today he jumps in class, carries 58kg and has the outside alley to overcome before a short run to a sharpish first bend.
Sarwatch daughter Pertinacious could be the safer bet.
"She didn't have the strength to push out and get going last time," said Walker.
"But she's getting better with time. It would be nice to win a maiden with her and put her out until next season."
Sir Bling (race 10) is the value runner from Team Te Akau.
Walker says the Strategic 3-year-old didn't have a lot of luck last time out at Matamata when blocked for a run in the straight.
"He should go a better race, but it really is one of those days when you're hopeful rather than confident."
Stablemate Miss March Forth (race three) may have a last start trial win beside her name, but Walker warns punters against getting carried away.
"They're normally not in a maiden highweight for no reason," he said.
"She's had quite a few trials before winning her last one. She just needs to show enough to step her up over 2000m after this."
Meanwhile, Walker is still holding out hope of adding another two runners to his Queensland team in the next few weeks.
Hong Kong-bound Hamlet's Ghost - who has his next run at Ellerslie Saturday week - is a possible Queensland Guineas runner, while Polish Princess may contend a listed 1600m on the Stradbroke card.
"Polish Princess is a chance to have one run there, but she needs it to start raining," said Walker.
