Overcoming a back complaint has been the catalyst for Luck’s Elusive’s improved form, according to trainer, Ashley Maley.
Luck’s Elusive has rebounded after commencing her campaign in March poorly when unplaced at Ascot and Pinjarra.
The bay mare won easily at Port Hedland and was equally if not more impressive at Broome’s season-opening meeting.
On a day that favoured front runners she defied the pattern of racing with a powerful finish from the tail of the field to defeat Contagious by 2 ½ lengths.
Against a similar line up in the Western Form Workx Handicap (1435m) at Broome on Saturday, Luck’s Elusive stands a strong chance to notch a hat trick of wins.
“I’m extremely happy with the way she is going,” said Maley.
“She is relishing the Broome environment and has fully recovered from an earlier back complaint.
“I like the way she is finishing her races off and the extra 135m is only going to be a benefit.
“It’s not going to be easy with Central Park and Contagious the dangers but I’m confident she will run up to her mark.”
Central Park has a solid second up record and will strip fitter after doing his best work late when 4 ½ lengths fifth to Luck’s Elusive.
The John Gangemi-trained eight-year-old, drawn in gate three for Campbell McCallum, is giving Luck’s Elusive 5 ½ kg.
Former Melbourne galloper Contagious, prepared by Rob Gulberti, is sure to be improved after an impressive first up effort on the red dirt.
Maley is taking a cautious approach with Husslahana in the Westpac Bank Maiden (1100m).
The Husson mare returned from a two year layoff with a top second to Stated over 1000m at Carnarvon on May 10.
But her maiden run at Broome ended in disappointment when she finished eighth and 11 lengths adrift of Dream Stealer.
“I’m not confident she handled the track,” said Maley.
“But it was only her second run back after a big break so you have to be careful. “If she brings her Carnarvon run she has claims.”
Maley says he is not confident Our Saxon Flyer can handle three runs in as many weeks and Dream Stealer in the Seashells Broome Handicap (1200m).
Dream Stealer, prepared by Kevin Collins, stole a march on her rivals and was untroubled when leading from barrier to post over 1000m a fortnight back.
Danreign also presents legitimate claims after going down to Poco by a short-head at his first outing since February.
www.rwwa.com.au
