Desert Lightning's poor draw raises doubts for Mornington return
The worst barrier allocation could hold up the scheduled launch of Desert Lightning's campaign at Mornington.
In Saturday's 17-nomination Listed Hareeba Stakes (1200m), Desert Lightning has the widest draw among 17, shouldering 60kg under jockey Luke Nolen.
With a maximum of 15 starters on Saturday and two emergencies listed.
Trained by Peter Moody and Katherine Coleman, the horse resumes first-up on Saturday, not seen since spring's Crystal Mile (1600m) at Moonee Valley in October last year.
Coleman stated they will decide if facing the expansive draw on Saturday is worth it or better to postpone.
"He's really just there first-up for a fitness run, so we'll have a good look at the race and see whether we save him for another day," Coleman said.
"It's not the end of the world."
According to Coleman, Desert Lightning's current form suggests a likely venture to Queensland's Winter Carnival.
Last June at Eagle Farm, Desert Lightning was fourth in the Group 1 Stradbroke Handicap (1400m), and it's back on his trainers' agenda this season.
For a seasoned runner, Coleman observed Desert Lightning is in fine fettle heading into winter.
"He's trialled really nicely this time," Coleman said.
"He's nice and fresh, he seems in a good headspace for an older horse. He's really enjoying his work.
"Whether he runs first-up on Saturday, or whether we wait another day, we'll make that decision, but I think he can run well if we decide to go there."
Fellow stable runner She's Got Pizzazz earned a spot in the 15-horse lineup, taking barrier 8 with Linda Meech to ride.
Coleman pointed out that moisture in the Mornington track would benefit She's Got Pizzazz, following two outings post-break at 1100m each.
Mornington was rated Soft 5 at Wednesday's acceptance stage.
"She's ideally looking for 1400 metres now, but she needs another one at the 1200 (metres) to bring her on fitness wise," Coleman said.
"She needs soft ground as well to see her at her best, so we'll be on weather watch a little bit there as well."
Check the top online bookmakers for Hareeba Stakes betting options.
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