Got to carry that weight

Mon, July 26 2010

IT is a testament to The Soldier's class that even with 64kg he will start a hot favourite in today's Carbine Club Flying Handicap (1100m).

The star Red Centre speedster was last night posted a $2.50 top-elect by bookmaker Sportingbet for the $25,000 Day 5 support feature race at Fannie Bay.

A 16-time race winner, The Soldier carried 64.5kg to get the cash at his most recent appearance over his pet trip of 1000m at the Bay on July 10.

Certainly the step up in trip is a query as The Soldier has tasted victory at 1100m only once in nine previous attempts, but has been minor placed on four occasions.

A major boost is the presence of regular jockey Kim Gladwin, who has been aboard in 13 of The Soldier's victories, but like last start will be using a saddle that weighs a stone (7kg).

While there are only five rivals for The Soldier, each possesses an ability to win the race. Gallium is shooting for a fairytale result for comeback trainer David Bates and victory today would be the third in as many years for the seven-year-old gelding.

Barstool chased home The Soldier last time out, going down by a length and three quarters and meets him at level weights, while Kirikirish won't be daunted by this company. It will also be interesting to see how two horses coming off restricted grade wins - Bullant and Thumb Prints - fare.

Bullant actually ran quicker time than The Soldier (56.39 to 56.58) to win his 1000m Rating 67 event on July 10 and that was the former Victorian's first Top End appearance.

Thumb Prints, who won last start in Rating 73 grade, boasts four wins over 1100m and has the services of premiership leading jockey Scott Hillebrand.

Story Courtesy Gregor Mactaggart - NT News