By Glenn Davis
Gold Coast trainer John Gilmore is optimistic that consistent sprinter Jubai Pride can overcome an awkward barrier to end a frustrating run of placings at Eagle Farm on Wednesday.
Jubai Pride has drawn barrier nine in a field of 10 in the Class Four Handicap over 1600 metres.
“It’s not the best of draws and I would have preferred to draw in further,” Gilmore said.
“But hopefully she’ll be able to settle a bit better over the 1600 metres and get back a bit further.”
Gilmore has booked apprentice Jaden Lloyd, whose 1.5kgs claim brings the five-year-old mare well in at the weights with only 53kgs.
Lloyd rode Jubai Pride two starts back when the daughter of Pride Of Dubai finished third to the Chris Waller-trained Green Flash in a 1640 metres Benchmark race at Doomben on December 9.
Jubai Pride was ridden by Larry Cassidy last start when she again finished third behind the Chris Munce-trained Majestic Request in a 1400-metre Class Four at the Sunshine Coast on December 23.
“Jaden got off the day he rode her and thought she was ready to win,” Gilmore said.
“Larry rode her last start when she raced too handy and he said she would be better ridden off the pace.
“She’s better off like that when she can have one go at them.
“Going to 1600 metres will suit her but she would have been a better chance if drawn inside.”