Breaks must go Playboy’s way

By Jonny Turner

Nathan Williamson thinks he has found the perfect lead up for The Race for Pembrook Playboy.

But it won’t be straight forward.

The star southern, racing in Dunstan Horse Feeds’ slot in Australasia’s inaugural harness racing slot race at Cambridge this month, starts from barrier one on the second row in Group Three free-for-all company at Addington on Friday night.

Even New Zealand’s worst punter should know that barrier draw isn’t ideal as far as the horse’s winning chances go.

Clearly he is going to need a slice of luck.

But it does play towards two of Pembrook Playboy’s best weapons – his high speed and his brilliant acceleration.

“It is probably a good draw for where he at is going forward because he will probably need this run,” Williamson said.

“But he is not going to have to do a lot of work and hopefully the gaps open at the right time and he is running on.”

Pembrook Playboy has started his trip towards Cambridge, arriving at Regan Todd’s barn in Canterbury ahead of Friday night’s 1980m feature.

“He seems good, Regan has been very happy with him on the beach this week and he trialled nicely last week,” Williamson said.

“He is pretty forward, but whatever he does he will improve on.”

How many places back on the inner during the running looks the key to Pembrook Playboy’s chances.

Best case scenario looks to have the pacer three back on the pegs following Sugar Me, with a gate flyer like Cranbourne or Alta Wiseguy in front.