Racing: Baldwin switches on to claiming apprentice

Trainer Barry Baldwin believes Tegan Harrison's recent form makes her the logical choice to ride Mr Light Blue at Eagle Farm tomorrow.

Harrison posted her most important career win at the Gold Coast on New Year's Day when she rode All That to an all-the-way win in the Bat Out Of Hell (900m).

She is the dominant force in the apprentice ranks in Brisbane, with 27 wins this season, more than double the number of her nearest junior rival, Kirk Matheson, who has ridden 13 winners.

"Tegan's a good rider and she always takes particular notice of the instructions you give her, which is a good sign in a young rider," Baldwin said.

Harrison is in high demand tomorrow, with a full book of rides, including last-start winners Garozzo in the Open Handicap (1500m) and She's A Danica in the Two-Year-Old Handicap (1000m).

"It's a long time since I've used an apprentice on this horse but after Tegan's claim he'll come in with 57kg, which isn't too bad and it looks the right race for him," Baldwin said.

"His record over the track and distance is good and he's ready for the step up in journey."

Mr Light Blue finished seventh in the Bernborough Hcp last Saturday, which followed a narrow win over 1600m at Eagle Farm when he led throughout with Jeff Lloyd aboard.

Baldwin said the grey wasn't suited in the Bernborough and raced like a horse who was looking for a staying trip.

Mr Light Blue will be Baldwin's only runner in the race after he scratched Croatian Quality because the mare is struggling to cope with the recent hot, humid weather.

The gelding is on the third line of betting at $5, with Carry Me Bluey the $4.20 favourite, who is striving to give trainer Norm Hilton a farewell win in Brisbane before he shifts to Newcastle this month.

- AAP