Stratford set for big race

COUNTRY Cup champion Stratford is primed to return to the winner’s circle after an unsuccessful Townsville Cup campaign.

He will be freshened up for the run at the judge from box four in the Belford Kennels Best 8 over 380m at Townsville Showgrounds today.

Dangers will come from Bogie Bandit (1) for Merv Parker. He won here on Tuesday night from box four and has been drawn well again for another bold race.

The Andrew Woolertrained Astor (2) has gone from strength to strength and his win on Tuesday night from box five was one of his best races.

Awesome Alex (5) won here on Tuesday night from box four in a good field and Ballistic Bullet (8) for Brad Belford ran a good third his last start. He has drawn wide with room to move and has a good finish.

The Best 8 will be the main feature of a 10-race program. Kennelling closes at 11.16am and the first race at 12.01pm.