Exciting mare Dream Face is set for her toughest examination yet in today's Lexus of Darwin WFA Stakes (1100m) at Fannie Bay.
That is the view of trainer Gary Clarke, who has seen the four-year-old speedster blossom into the Territory's form horse.
Since Darwin Cup day, Dream Face has strung together five consecutive wins, four at the Bay and another at Adelaide River.
It is a streak that puts her within sight of Lucid Reflection, who won seven races on the trot between February and May 2009, highlighted by his victory in that year's Pioneer Sprint.
Clarke knows that number six could prove an obstacle in a field containing smart types such as Blackbriar and General Mazeratti, in their first starts since the Darwin Cup, along with seasoned campaigner Exalation.
"But she's well and I think still one of the horses to beat," Clarke said.
The astute horseman has been impressed with the daughter of Face Value's development since joining the stable earlier this year.
"She's a tough little thing, very low maintenance and quiet to ride in her trackwork," Clarke said.
"I don't usually take on fillies, but James Jordan, who is one of the fellas I train for, rang me and asked me to take it when he bought her from South Australia."
"They had high hopes for her down there and they said you'll have a good horse on your hands if you work her out, it took a while, but we've got there."
Clarke also acknowledged the rapport between Dream Face and apprentice Simone Montgomerie, who has been aboard for the duration of this winning run.
"Simone's won all five on her, she rides all her work and has done a great job," Clarke said.
In addition to Dream Face, Clarke will saddle up veteran campaigner Phantom Verde and grey Costlyev in the $16,000 affair, the feature event of today's six-race Melbourne Cup Day card.
The first gets underway at 1.44pm.
Story courtesy of Gregor Mactaggart, NT News
