Webster finds the short sprint distance ideal for Runaround Sue

Races contested over such brief distances as 800 metres are uncommon in many racing jurisdictions. However, Ipswich consistently offers opportunities over the sprint distance, which trainers like Pat Webster are adept at leveraging.

The experienced trainer has entered two horses for the Barrier Reef Pools Benchmark 65 Handicap on Thursday, with Runaround Sue being one of them. She is poised to build on her respectable performance history at the venue.

"We like to use those races for a lot of horses resuming," Webster said.

"Sometimes we hold them back from a second trial, or even start them first-up with no trials over the half-mile and if you're lucky enough you can get an earn out of it. I think they are a good tool."

With two wins and as many placings from her six career starts, Webster feels that the 800-metre distance suits the seven-year-old mare, especially as she performs well second-up, suggesting she is well-prepared for another strong showing.

Runaround Sue was narrowly defeated, finishing less than half a length behind the winner at Toowoomba over 870 metres on August 15 in her initial run this preparation.

"I think she'll run well second-up," Webster confirmed.

"She probably could have had a run sooner in the prep than she did but there wasn't much around for her at the time so she is on the quick back-up for a horse that only started ten days ago.

"But I'm happy with her going into tomorrow and gate one will definitely help."

The successful strategy of pinpointing suitable races for the mare has been a hallmark of Webster's training, who also guides apprentice Chloe Lowe.

Lowe is set to ride Runaround Sue, and her two-kilogram claim will effectively lower the mare's impost to 57.5 kilograms.

"Chloe rides a lot of our work and has won a few on this horse," Webster commented.

"She is going pretty good. There is still a bit of tidying up to do but she is a hard worker and is very good on horses that run along."

Webster's other entrant, Medals, also benefits from a three-kilogram apprentice allowance. However, racing first-up and still carrying 61 kilograms, the gelding faces a tougher assignment.

"I probably would have taken him to a race in the country, an open 1000m if there was one but I think he'll run well," Pat added.

Runaround Sue is the $3.80 favourite in early markets released on Wednesday, with Medals at $4. Check out the leading online bookmakers for the latest racing odds.