Backmark big challenge for Tarragindi at Invercargill today

By Jonny Turner 

Phil Williamson has raced enough horses at Ascot Park to know Tarragindi is facing a stern test on Thursday.

Tarragindi will start from a 30m handicap over 2200m in Race 10, the Centrepoint/South City Liquorland Handicap Trot (3.39pm) taking on a smart field in the process. 

Those circumstances all add up to the master trainer being hopeful rather than confident going into the race. 

"I have had a few that have tried to win off 30m over 2200m at Invercargill and it is not easy," Williamson said. 

"If Tarragindi can't do it, I probably won't try again."

"He is a nice horse but it is a big ask."

"I wouldn't be surprised if he was able to do it, but I wouldn't be surprised if he couldn't do it either."

Tarragindi ($2.80FF) comes into his Ascot Park assignment second up after a nice fresh effort for second behind race rival Aveross Majesty.

Though it is natural to think the four-year-old will strip fitter for that run, he was quite forward for his resumption.

"I think he is much the same."

"He went 3.01 (for 2400m), home in 57sec and sat parked for the last lap."

"He went a pretty good race first up and he should go pretty good again."

"It will just be a matter of how he can get into it from the handicap."

Williamson also starts Becky's Girl ($2.15FF) at Ascot Park on Thursday.

After showing plenty of talent as a two-year-old, the filly is back to kick off her career as a three-year-old in Race 6, the Diamond Creek/Silk Road series (Heat 3) Mobile Trot (1.45pm).

It looks the perfect starting point for her.

"She's a nice filly and if she was able to bring her manners she should go close."

"She's made the odd mistake, so she will have to be on her game and trot the whole way."

"But if she does, she is ready to go a nice race."

"If she is able to qualify, we will have a go at the Silk Road Final and then she can have a freshen up."

"I think she is up to aiming at the better age group races, so we will head that way after that."

Brad Williamson combines with Becky's Girl on Thursday, while Oliver Kite will attempt to go one better than his last start second behind Tarragindi.