Baker’s Coast hopes for pair

Trainer Bjorn Baker is confident both Iknowastar and Hollywood Hero are capable of delivering him a maiden $500,000 The Coast (1600m) win at Gosford this Saturday.

Baker will launch a twopronged attack in the fourth edition of Gosford’s richest race where has attracted a competitive field of 12 runners.

Iknowastar, a $5 second favourite with TAB, is Baker’s top seed after the talented son of Star Witness has gone close twice already this preparation with a pair of seconds at Rosehill Gardens.

Baker expects his bold frontrunner should be suited by the step up to a mile and the Gosford track when she chases the biggest win of her career with Rachel King back in the saddle.

“I am thrilled with how Iknowastar is going,” Baker said. “He is a horse that is getting better and better and I thought his run last start was really good while the first up run was good.

“The mile is spot on for him and Gosford appears to be a crack that will suit him.

“His work this morning was very good while he may be a bit of a question mark on a wet track. He seemed to get through it very well on Tuesday morning.”

Gosford is currently in the heavy range with contingencies plans in place should the meeting be unable to go ahead due to forecast rain.

Iknowastar was unplaced in his only start on heavy going while Hollywood Hero has never faced the wettest surface.

He is a $9.50 chance to salute again.

“Hollywood Hero is up and going really well,” Baker said.

“He’s coming off a good win there with the 60kg at Canterbury. I think he has to be a chance too with Jay Ford on.”

The Kris Lees-trained Tavi Time is the $3.30 favourite for The Coast with the Newcastle conditioner also accepting with Kind Words ($34).