Trainer Donna Scott is hoping Oamanikka can boost his handicap rating at Albury today.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Oamanikka is one of several gallopers Scott is hopeful that will form part of the stables assault on the Country Championships qualifier at Wagga in February.
The four-year-old gelding has been freshened ahead of the $22,000 Benchmark 66 Hcp, (1175m) with Blaike McDougall booked to ride.
"We have freshened him up for this race and the Country Championships are on our radar," Scott said.
"I thought I would give him one more run before having another freshen up.
"I have been talking to the handicapper and for the past couple of years horses that are rated above 62 have made it into the Championship qualifier.
"Oamanikka is rated at 64 so he should gain a start but I would rather be safe than sorry.
"But in saying that, it looks a much tougher race on paper than I thought it was going to be with some nice horses going around."
IN OTHER NEWS
Scott said Chipsaredown, Scout, Yousay Bolt and Kurocaine would all provide stiff opposition.
"Chipsaredown recently won at Moonee Valley which is obviously strong form for a race like this," she said.
"So if my horse can just prove competitive, I'll be more than happy.
"If he wins it will be a bonus but hopefully he doesn't lose any rating points if he doesn't perform to expectations.
"I think he has got the ability but the Country Championships is his target race.
"The shorter trip will suit fresh."
