Classy Twister has yet to strike in 19 appearances but there are signs he could go close to shedding his maiden status at Northam on Thursday.
The Hurricane Sky gelding has strung together two solid performances that will tempt punters in the Welcome Back To Northam Maiden (2200m).
Classy Twister ran second at York but it was a gallant third in Bunbury that has given trainer, Neville Parnham, a boost in confidence.
“He had a really tough run and to hang on the way he did was probably a good sound effort from him,” said Parnham on Tabradio.
“He is a big lazy type of horse and you have to keep at him a bit but this will be his type of race.
“It looks winnable for him and hopefully he will breakthrough.”
Sharpie’s Me Mate has tuned up for his return in the www.dukesinn.com.au Maiden (1300m) with two Belmont trial hit outs.
The Trade Fair gelding defeated Red Paddy by a neck and was 2 ¾ lengths second to Cronkite.
Red Paddy ventured first-up at Bunbury and edged out Amachisit by a short half-head.
Cronkite, who ran fifth to French Champagne on debut at Northam last October, has drawn awkwardly in barrier ten. Shaun O’Donnell takes the ride.
William Pike partners Amachisit from gate eight.
Parnham said Sharpie’s Me Mate, who will jump from gate four for his jockey son, Steven, was forward enough to run a race first up.
“He has had a good long spell and has come back stronger than his last campaign,” said Parnham.
“His trials were very good and the 1300m will suit him.
“He is not a speedy horse and will race behind the pace.
“His work and trials indicate he is ready to run a race first-up.
“Hopefully he will give a good account of himself and break his maiden status.”
Parnham takes a two-pronged attack in the XXXX Gold Handicap (1300m) but Sky Dreamer and No Smoken face a difficult assignment against, Divine Bay.
The Danehill Express filly won on debut at Northam last year and was a runaway Albany winner at her second run back three weeks ago.
Parnham says Sky Dreamer, who won at Northam last year, can improve despite two moderate runs at York when placed sixth.
“I don’t think she is entirely suited by the York circuit,” Parnham said.
“I think she is ready to show a bit of form.
“She has raced well at Northam in the past and the distance should suit.
“She is capable of running into the money and has improved with a couple of runs under her belt.
“No Smoken normally takes a run or two to find his form.”
RWWA: Julio Santarelli