Racing: Reversal likely from Martina H

By MICHAEL GUERIN

The most expensive failure of Martina H's season should lead to another major victory.

The Pukekohe mare cost punters a fortune when only fourth in her heat of the Australasian Trotting Champs at Moonee Valley on Saturday night.

But the North Island's best trotter still produced the run of the race after an uncharacteristic early gallop, which meant she lost valuable field position.

She was then forced to sit parked for the last 1400m and faded late to fourth in the heat won by former Kiwi trotter All Action Son.

While it was of little consolation to punters, Martina H still makes this Saturday's A$100,000 championship final.

Which is more than can be said for most of her favoured rivals.

After a bizarre heat in which three of the four favourites galloped or met bad luck, Martina H has ironically been left with few serious rivals for the final.

Series second favourite and fellow New Zealand rep Frugal Echo has not made the final after being pushed back in the middle stages on Saturday night and not getting a run in the home straight.

And leading Australian hopes Adella's Dash and Gold N Gold also miss out after early gallops.

That leaves just Our First Jewel, the winner of Saturday's weaker heat, capable of footing it with Martina H at her best.

Co-trainer Derek Balle blamed his mare's battling performance and uneven gait on Saturday night on a late shoeing change.

"We had her reshod on Saturday morning and she didn't feel comfortable during the race," said Balle.

"But it is a minor thing and I am sure we can have her back to her best for the final."

That should be enough for Martina H to turn last Saturday's defeat into this Saturday's victory.