The strength of trainer Stephen Marsh's hand in the Gr.1 Al Basti Equiworld Dubai New Zealand Oaks (2400m) will become clearer after his promising fillies Insight and Mark Two step out in today's Gr.2 Cambridge Stud Sir Tristram Fillies Classic (2000m) at Te Rapa.
Marsh has a high opinion of both fillies and is looking forward to today's feature as his pair build to the Oaks (2400m) at Trentham on March 17. With maiden filly Mark Two drawing the outside barrier of 12, Marsh believes Insight gives him his strongest winning chance today after she only got clear late in the Gr.3 Desert Gold Stakes (1600m) at Trentham last start and finished sixth.
"Her two runs this time in have been very good," he said.
"She didn't get a lot of luck last start and she probably should have finished a lot closer. The step up to 2000m is perfect for her now and she's drawn three so she should get a lovely run from there.
TAB bookmakers have marked the Marsh pair as $23 outsiders for today and $31 for the Oaks.
Marsh's only other runner at Te Rapa today is Felaar in the Edge 97.8FM 2100. "He's drawn average so he'll have to go back and find a position. But he's potentially a very good horse in the making."
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- NZ Racing Desk