Racing
Luttrell newcomer could be just what he needs
Trainer John Luttrell is confident a newcomer to his stable has the form and credentials to take out the Aviso TAS Pink Cup (1400m) in Hobart on Sunday.
John Luttrell recently took over the training of handy mare Just A Needs, and her two runs to date for her new stable have both been impressive.
First-up, she ran fourth, beaten a length behind Galenus over 1200m on 27 April, then she came from last to be beaten in a photo finish by Captain Cam in Open company over 1600m on 11 May.
"She ran a really nice race first-up and a really good run last week when second, dropping back to 1400m shouldn't be a problem, and she is going really well," Luttrell said.
"She's got a lot of ability. I don't think they have seen the best of her yet."
Just A Needs has always shown above average ability. She has won four races and been placed 10 times from 25 starts with a little more than $185,000 in prize money.
Her record at the track and distance for Sunday's race is six runs for two wins and three placings.
She has drawn one from the outside in the field of 10, so she is likely to settle back.
It's a busy day for Luttrell, who has nine runners and quite a few have solid winning chances. He is particularly keen on Raging Waters, who, after two runs this preparation, both over 1400m, steps out to 2100m for the first time.
"He gives me the impression he will run the 2100m easily, he's a bit of a one-batter but he is very strong and I'm really happy with him, he's going really well."
Raging Waters had his first three starts in Victoria before transferring to Luttrell a few months ago.
Another strong chance from the Luttrell stable is Fiorente De Legend, who will tackle the BM60 (1600m). She has been placed at her two runs in from a spell and looks to be one of the leading chances.
"I tried to make a stayer of her last prep, but I don't think she can run a trip, up to a mile on Sunday. She is racing well; she was very unlucky the other day."
On that occasion, Fiorente De Legend rattled home from the tail of the field to finish second, beaten one length over 1400m in class 2 company.
The Pink Cup race meeting is an annual charity event for the Tasmanian Racing Club, raising funds for Breast Cancer research. It's an early start with the first race scheduled for 11:19.
Check out our FREE full form, ratings for meetings in nine countries each and every day.