3 minute read

The John Salanitri trained Howdah hasn't won for some time, however she gets her best chance to break through when dropping back sharply in grade at Moe this afternoon.

Having taken on tougher company at both starts to begin this preparation, the daughter of Exceed And Excel appears set to peak racing third up.

Only beaten three lengths at Ballarat last start, Howdah now faces her easiest assignment since breaking through for her maiden win at Gosford in May 2013.

Formerly trained by Peter Snowden, Howdah has raced in good order with the Salanitri camp and her form is a lot better than what it first appears on paper.

No question she has obviously had issues, but is clearly capable when right and rates highly on best form.

With the aid of Jack Martin's claim she will carry 1.5kg below the minimum and has drawn to receive all the favours on the inside.

Her performance last start held plenty of merit and with further improvement anticipated she sets a good standard for her rivals.

The Rebecca Waymouth trained Star Of Harkaway has mixed her form, but is another who drops back sharply in grade and looms as a major threat.

Only lightly raced the daughter of Magnus stuck on well at Cranbourne last start and is unbeaten at her sole attempt at this track.

Apprentice Beau Mertens links aboard for the first time and she has performed well second up previously.

From the awkward draw she is likely to roll forward and be in this for a long way.

The Bill Wood trained Prime Ace appears the next best, as while not the most reliable he has won at this track previously and he has placed in seven of 15 attempts over this trip.

From the wide draw, he is expected to settle back in the field before making his run late in the piece.

Good luck and happy punting.