While a few of Glenferrie Duster's rivals are a query over the marathon journey, Chant can't wait to test his recent stable acquisition over the trip.

Glenferrie Duster caused a boilover when winning at Albury on New Year's Eve as a 40/1 shot and in three subsequent starts has two minor placings to his credit.

"I've only had the horse for his past three starts and he has run some nice races," Chant said.

"He probably is out of his class a bit but he loves the distance and has won over 2700m previously.

"I've been keen to race him over the longer trip because he has had a couple of starts at Leeton over 2100m and it looks to me he is looking for further.

"We could lead if we wanted to but I think we are better off slotting into a forward position and trying to get as soft a run as possible.

"He has been finishing his races off well so if he can get a soft run early, he is some sort of chance of running over the top of them."

The Wayne Potter-trained Shadow Reign is set to start favourite after finishing runner-up in the $35,000 Echuca Cup, (2570m) last start.

However, Shadow Reign's task has been made more difficult after the scratching of Red River Glacier.

Shadow Reign will now start from the inside of the second row with driver Ellen Tormey likely to snag back early from the awkward draw before having to do some mid-race work.

Chant said he still expected Shadow Reign to prove to be the testing material.

"I think there is probably four genuine chances but Wayne Potter's horse (Shadow Reign) is the one to beat," he said.

"I think Carla Clare is the best chance of a hometown victory for Oscar Livermore.

"Smooth Sailor and Ned Pepper can also win with a bit of luck in the run from tricky front-row draws.

"If Shadow Reign can find the front early we will all be running for second spot.

"But the scratching of Red River Glacier has made things a bit tougher for Shadow Reign who will now probably go back at the start."

John Scott will also be chasing a hometown victory with Halle Maruia who will be at peak fitness after having four runs back since resuming on New Year's Eve.

"She is a nice mare with above average ability," Scott said.

"She has had her fair share of issues over the past 12 months but that is behind her now.

"Shadow Reign is the horse we all have to beat but my mare will relish the 2500m.

"She went enormous last start in the Leeton Cup when she was forced three-wide for most of the last lap.

"We just need a better trip."

Gates open at 5pm.

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