Racing: Livy Franco primed for grass at Gore

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One look at the grass at Gore last week could make all the difference for Livy Franco at Gore tomorrow.

The mare headlines a busy day of driving for Rory McIlwrick, who teams up with the 5-year-old for his employer Nathan Williamson.

Livy Franco has drawn barrier two in the c2-c3 1800m on the grass track at Gore, which should be crucial over the shorter distance.

The daughter of Lis Mara had her first go on the Gore grass last Sunday, winning an 1800m workout by four lengths.

"It was a nice enough trial at Gore - she did everything you could ask for there," McIlwrick said.

"She has been working well and I expect a good run from her from the draw." Livy Franco's last appearance on race day at Ascot Park on January 24 produced a fourth behind Delightful Dash, who went on to run second at Addington on January 30 before winning at Wyndham on February 21.

"She seems to be thriving on the grass and it doesn't really worry her."

McIlwrick is driving the second- stringer for the Williamson stable in the c1 2600m trot, but he is ready to pounce with Grey Power if the likely favourite Splash Cola gets up to her old tricks.

"Splash Cola has to do things right - which hopefully she does - but if she doesn't, it brings the rest of the field into it.

"There was a lot of merit in his last run sitting parked against some tidy opponents. I think he'll acquit himself very well particularly if he gets an economical run."

Livy Franco may have snared a nice draw, but it's the opposite situation for McIlwrick with Johan's Jet in race 6.

The Jack Lynch-trained pacer starts from the outside of the second line, with likely favourite Nova Time getting the plum draw of barrier one.

"Draws are pretty much the only thing against him - but I still think if the race is run to suit, he'll be there or thereabouts," he said.

"The grass is the only other question, but he's tough and he gives you that feel he will see out the journey.

McIlwrick's other drives are headlined by Twitter Bromac (race 7) and Jaccka Mara (race 4).