By MICHAEL GUERIN
A tricky barrier draw is all that stands between Oaxaca Lass and victory at Alexandra Park tonight.
The outstanding filly is in Auckland on a stopover before heading to Australia for a classic-race campaign, where she will clash with long-time foe Elect To Live in the Queensland, Victoria
and Australian Oaks over the winter.
Owner and caretaker trainer Graeme Pearson is using tonight's Great Northern Winter Stakes as a conditioning run for Australia and is delighted with Oaxaca Lass going into the 1700m mobile.
Oaxaca Lass blazed over her last 400m in 27.5 seconds to win at the Alexandra Park workouts last Saturday and has trained on well since.
"She felt sharp on Saturday and Graeme was very happy with the way she worked on Wednesday morning," said driver Frank Cooney.
"On paper she does look the best horse in the field and you think she should win.
"But it is never easy from a wide draw at Alexandra Park, particularly in a sprint race.
"I am not sure whether to go forward at the start or give her time to settle in the small field. It could be tricky, though, so she is not past the post."
If anyone was to threaten Oaxaca Lass tonight, it would be Ultimate Pursuit, said Cooney.
"He looks a good 3-year-old and has got a better draw than us."
Ultimate Pursuit was bought for serious money by clients of the Steven Reid stable and has looked worth it this campaign, with two authoritative wins.
He was not disgraced against Jack Cade and the best of his grade in the Sires' Stakes Final in November and could also secure an Australian campaign with a win tonight.
