HORSEPOWER

March 9th (Dirt Barrier Trial, 1050m: 3-3-2) showed unstable head carriage when turning, struggling in the final stages to finish second from the rear. This is an early run this season; his performance in a similar race three weeks ago was not poor. He jumped slowly and tracked runners from behind, maintaining an average pace throughout the run, and managed to regain some lost ground towards the end. He showed slight improvement in a recent trial barrier jump. In this race, he carries two pounds less weight; he has won twice previously in this trip and his time performance is respectable. The draw is advantageous, and he will likely track from the back; his finishing kick among the runners in this group is the strongest. His recent condition looks good, but the circumstances haven't fully aligned, and the jockey/trainer combination isn't ideal. This makes him a potential longshot bet.