The need for a serious hit-out may make Lizzie Maguire a better winning chance at Alexandra Park tonight than many punters expect.
Last season's Harness Jewels-winning filly returns against some class older mares in race seven and normally she would seem vulnerable under such circumstances.
Lizzie Maguire hasn'thad a serious race since the Jewels in early June and with her first major aim of the season, the Sales Series Pace, only three weeks away she could be excused for not being driven to the limits of her ability tonight.
But trainer Gareth Dixon says there may not be time for that.
"I want to have her ready for the Sales Series in three weeks and because of that I wouldn't mind seeing her have a hard run this week," admitted Dixon.
"I know she will not be at her best but she is pretty fit and I think class will take her a long way.
"I'd be happy to see Peter (Ferguson, driver) lead and stay there on her because she can handle that even at this stage of her campaign."
Lizzie Maguire missed the Breeders Crown in August because of a hoof infection then Dixon also allowed her to bypass the major fillies' races at Alexandra Park last month.
"She has a long season ahead, with Oaks races, the Sales Series, the Nevele R series and the Harness Jewels as well as maybe the Breeders Crown in August.
"So I am glad we missed last month's races, I think it could be the right decision long-term."
Lizzie Maguire has strengthened since last season and has had two workouts to fit her for tonight.
"She has paced around 3:6 for 2400m, so she won't be far away."
Her toughest rival will be Cruzin Foralivin, who was strong winning at Cambridge last start and will be hard to beat even from the outside of the gate.
Earlier in the night, Dixon will debut the trotter, Playmate Of The Year, in race three.
"She is a smart little filly and I quite like her. It is a tough race fresh-up but if she does trot all the way she will be hard to catch."
