Ashley Maley can’t fault the form of Luck’s Elusive but is wary of the field she meets in the Shady Lane Cafe Handicap (1300m) at Broome on Saturday.
The Elusive Quality mare is in red-hot form with a hat trick of wins but faces a stern test against arguably her best opposition this campaign.
Two major rivals include former Perth galloper Danreign and Flying Coco who dead-heated at their previous encounter on June 21. Bustabill, who ended a long losing sequence and Lookatim Go, a strong winner two start back, are also worthy of serious claims.
Adding to Maley’s concerns and a note of caution to punters is a critical gear change to Luck’s Elusive. “She will race with the bar plates on,” said Maley.
“It’s new territory for me as none of my horses have raced with them previously. “Her feet were just a little tender after her last win. “I’m more concerned with the field she is meeting.
“It’s her best line-up and probably the race of the season so far. “But her work earlier this week was good and she loves racing here.”
Maley will take a two-pronged attack into the Broome Air Maintenance Maiden (1200m) but finds it difficult to split stable mates Husslahana and News Flash.
Husslahana’s introduction to Broome racing has been horrid after running second-last and last when her saddle slipped on June 14.
The Husson mare bounced backed and displayed marked improvement when runner-up to Jolie Femme, beaten a half-length two weeks later.
News Flash staked her claim when at her second career outing she attacked the line well for a 1 ¾ length second to Enemy Lines.
“I think News Flash might be better suited over more ground,” said Maley.
“I would be more confident if it was an extra 100m. “I really can’t split them.”
