Racing: Major Mark in top form for Aussie debut

Major Mark. Photo / Natalie Slade

A dazzling workout on Monday has boosted trainer Mark Purdon's confidence levels ahead of Major Mark's Australian debut tonight.

New Zealand's juvenile pacer of the year will start a hot favourite after drawing perfectly at barrier two in his semifinal of the Australasian Breeders Crown at Melton tonight.

But just a few days ago trainer-driver Purdon said he had had his worries as Major Mark struggled to get over a cold. "He had it for about a week and last week I thought it might have cost us some fitness."

Those fears were blown away on Monday when Major Mark worked in sensational style at Pukekohe.

"He worked as well as I could have wanted," said Purdon.

"I'll admit after that my confidence levels have been boosted because I thought he would be hard to beat this week but could be a bit fresh.

"Now I think he is ready to win."

Barrier two is perfect for Major Mark, who should be able to work his way forward, with the semi-final format aiding him.

Two-year-olds contesting tonight's semi-finals have to finish in the first five to be guaranteed a place in the super-rich finals on August 22.

That means few drivers are willing to go to war for fear of dropping out and missing their shot at finals' glory and ABC history suggests when favourites are able to lead they get an easy time and usually win.

Major Mark's New Zealand record, including wins in the Jewels, Sires' Stakes Final, Welcome Stakes and Young Guns Final, coupled with the enormous respect accorded Purdon runners in Australia, suggest he could get an easy kill tonight.

Purdon has two chances at Alexandra Park tonight and said they were both good each-way chances.

"Three Js [race five] has gone two good races recently and has to be a good chance from her draw," says Purdon. "And Arden's Darlin [race eight] is honest and consistent."