RACE COMMENT

OVERVIEW: PINNIE (10) is a top-quality mare who has spent much of her career chasing stars like Keayang Zahara and Jilliby Ballerini. She has multiple Group 1 placings and won last year’s Warragul Trotters Cup. She performs best over longer trips. The 40-metre handicap and a first-up run after a freshen-up make this a big ask, but if she’s right, she’s a major chance. AVANT GUARD (5) was only fair at Melton last start when race conditions didn’t suit. He was stuck on the fence but still ran home well. He prefers racing room, which he should get here, and off just 10 metres he has a significant head start on some key rivals. His Ballarat Trotters Cup run four starts back was outstanding and a repeat would see him hard to catch. MAXIMEZ (2) was eye-catching flashing home at Melton last start to be narrowly beaten. He is speedy, ultra-consistent and performs well on the country cup circuit. OUR MARVELLA (8) is a top-quality mare at her best and cannot be underestimated if she gets the right run. BACK: PINNIE (10) – 2 units (win)