Rain Thwarts Runners

First it was a Hawkesbury meeting washed out by rain 10 days ago, then wet tracks last weekend in Sydney and now the threat of more weekend rain is likely to hinder the return to racing of several PROVEN runners. KING THING was scratched from two races and has accepted for Rwick Sat but his aversion to soft ground will proclude a start should the predicted rain arrive.

Also handy filly NO REINS, down to return at Kembla Sat, won't start unless the track is better than slow. HARDBREAK HOTEL, another 3yo with promise, looks well placed at Glbn Sun but again considerable rain down there will result in his scratching. As well, Encosta De Lago gelding CHRISTMAS ISLAND who actually missed a start at Wyong Thurs due to being an emergency, has accepted for Gosford Sun and Hbry Tues. The intervention of rain will also see his withdrawal. And finally CANITMATTA, a victim of the Hawkesbury washout, heads to the same venue Tuesday and will run regardless of the going.....as long as they run the meeting!!!

Meantime, up north Sue Grills takes the greybeard, STUDIO STAR, to the Walcha Cup Friday. The old fella is struggling to regain his best form and an outside alley will not assist his winning aspirations. At his best, he'd be right in the race and the steering of boom apprentice Tim Bell is an unqualified plus.