Racing: Longer trip aids Tozzie

An extra 500m may be all Tozzie needs to turn the tables on exceptional trotting filly One Over Kenny tonight.

The pair have looked the best two three-year-old trotters in New Zealand this season and if either wins tonight's $50,000 Great Northern Trotting Derby at Alexandra Park that horse would almost certainly capture age group honours.

One Over Kenny made the most of her experience and gate speed to the corresponding 2200m race last Friday after Tozzie was slow early before looming up on the home bend.

Both horses had to overcome brief gallops in the final 300m and the honours for the race were probably shared but Tozzie is the one who can be expected to improve the most.

Trainer-driver Patrick O'Reilly believes the longer distance, and subsequent slower tempo, should give Tozzie more time to get into the race.

He should also be better for his first start right-handed last Friday, when he didn't look entirely comfortable.

He will need to improve though as while One Over Kenny has drawn the second line this week the two favourites will have to give class acts Harriet Hughes and George Castleton a start.

* Lyell Creek fans will get a rare opportunity to see the champ up close tonight.

His connections have agreed to let members of the public come down to the stables to see the $3million earner before his final race, the Rowe Cup.

Supporters will also be able to sign a book which will be presented to his connections in recognition of the gelding's amazing career.

The Auckland Trotting Club will hold an official farewell ceremony for Lyell Creek, which will also be screened live on Trackside, immediately after race nine.