Baker pair ready to ‘owna The Archer
Bjorn Baker’s team didn’t expect to be targeting Rockhampton’s richest race, but Iowna Merc and Sandpaper have earned their places in Sunday’s $1 million The Archer.
The 1300m event, in its fourth year, honours a local 1800s racing icon and this year sees the Baker-trained pair at the head of betting, with Iowna Merc at $4 and Sandpaper close behind at $4.80.
“It’s not an easy race – there isn’t any,” racing manager Luke Hilton said.
Hilton was quick to highlight Sandpaper’s excellent form, which includes a win in the Group 3 Newcastle Stakes and a solid effort at Randwick after a tough Doncaster Prelude run.
“Sandpaper is coming off a good win and he’s had a long preparation,” he said. “He’s been a revelation in his first preparation for us after Darby Racing bought him online.”
Iowna Merc, another Darby Racing product, has continued to impress with consistent performances and a standout fifth in the Group 1 Doncaster Mile (1600m).
“He’s been a phenomenal revelation,” Hilton said. “We’ve stretched him out in distance which has been the making of him.
“He ran really well in the Doncaster but was crucified with the bad gate (12) and we had to go back.
“I thought he ran a tremendous race with no luck and no speed which worked against him as well.
“On paper, he’s got one of the best formlines in the race.”
Nash Rawiller takes his first Rockhampton ride on Sandpaper, while Ash Morgan continues his partnership with Iowna Merc.
Craig Williams is also making his Rockhampton debut, booked to ride $12 outsider Comrade Rosa for Tony Gollan.
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