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DAVID Hayes says the tight turning Wodonga circuit holds no fears for his bold frontrunner Spacecraft ahead of tomorrow’s $80,000 Wodonga Gold Cup (1590m).
Wodonga is a noted front runners course and has proven a graveyard for many horses who can’t handle the tight bends and are disadvantaged by the short straight.
But Hayes is confident he has got the right horse in Spacecraft to hand him his first Wodonga feature after targeting the race for the first time two years ago with Manila Jewel.
Spacecraft will carry 57 kilograms after the three-kilogram claim for apprentice Brandon Stockdale and has drawn ideally in barrier 5.
“I haven’t had a chance to have an in-depth look at the field yet but my horse is a frontrunner that should be suited by the Wodonga track,” Hayes said.
“He is in good form and dropping back significantly in class after racing in group 3 company last start.
“Yes, he has got his fair share of weight but with the kid’s claim gets into the race quite well.”
Spacecraft has had three runs back since resuming from a spell in October and is quoted a $7 chance in pre-post markets.
The eight-year-old gelding is coming off a gallant third at Sandown when collared late by the Gai Waterhouse-trained Pornichet and General Groove in group 3 company on November 15.
“He is only just starting this campaign but he looks set for another good preparation and is an old warhorse,” Hayes said.
“His last start effort was his best performance for about 12 months.
“People are quick to forget he was only beaten by a head a year ago by Fiorente in a group 2 race over a mile.”
Hayes said Spacecraft loved to jump out and lead and could prove hard to run down in the straight.
“We will just try to find the front and hopefully prove too hard to catch,” he said.
Spacecraft had a start over the hurdles last preparation but failed at the 3200 metres.