The in-form galloper will be chasing a hat-trick of wins when he contests the $20,000 Benchmark 66 Hcp, (1600m).

Macgyver's Me Mate has won his past two starts at Albury over 1400m and Maclean said the step-up to a mile will only enhance his chances.

"It does look to be another winnable race for him," Maclean said.

"The step-up in distance is a big plus for him.

"At the moment I expect the horse to be strong up to a mile.

"But with another prep or two under his belt he will get out to over 2000m easily.

"He is still a bit of an excitable horse and will only get better with maturity."

IN OTHER NEWS

Macgyver's Me Mate likes to race on the speed and Maclean expects jockey Blaike McDougall to take full advantage of the inside draw.

McDougall replaces Brodie Loy in the saddle with Loy taking a short-break from riding to freshen-up and get on top of his weight ahead of the spring.

"Drawing the inside, hopefully he can pounce on the lead and dictate," he said.

"I have had a bit of a look at the speed map and I can't see too many other horses wanting to take the lead.

"Marchello might want the front and if it does, Blaike has the option to take a sit.

"Obviously getting Blaike is a bonus and he has rode the horse previously in a trial."

Macgyver's Me Mate is quoted the $2.70-favourite in fixed odds markets.