Thornley has nine drives in total, six of which offer each-way odds of less than $10.
The first of these comes in Race 2, the 2400m Peter Craig Memorial Trot, where Neil William ($5.50FF) lines up for trainer Sam Payne.
“He should have a good chance. He’s shown a bit of skill in his first few races. Last time he got a bit lost at the front and galloped. He should go well,” Thornley said.
In Race 3, American Tos ($4.00FF) rounds for trainer Anne-Marie and Jack Best at Fiona Stuart Memorial Mobile pace.
“He did well on the first day in Nelson. He tested well the other day so it should go well.”
Major Li ($6.00FF) will be looking for a deserved maiden win in Race 4, with the John Morrison, Ken McRae and Dave McHugh Pace placed fourth from five starts this campaign for trainer Ken Barron.
“He has the ability to win, it just depends on whether he wants it or not.”
Always Bee Gee ($6.00FF) in Race 6, the Hamish Scott/Kim Lawson Mobile Pace looks to have a good chance despite a big draw after a strong fifth place in Oamaru last time.
“It was a pretty good run last time. It’s not the best draw, but if he makes a good run he has a good chance.”
Thornley’s drive in the $20,000 Garrards Horse And Hound Hororata Cup over 3000 meters is Commander Ben ($5.00FF) for trainer Kevin Fairbairn. Commander Joe comes into the event fresh with a solid second place behind The Big Lebowski and looks to be in with another shot at the top four, drawn from the front line with the favorites all behind him, including race favorite JT Boe.
“It’s a good field, but he’s up front. He’s a good starter, so if we can stay ahead of the other good players, he would be a good chance.”
Thornley trains and pilots a runner in the final race on the schedule, Race 11, the HSW Accountants/Promed Mobile pace with A Better Jackalack ($7.00FF). Unsuited to the pressure of barrier one at Oamaru last time, A Better Jackalack returns to the unruly target for today’s assignment.
“He has drawn one four times and he has done it every time. He certainly has the ability, but if he is unruly it will be difficult for him.”
Thornley also pilots He’s Santas Excuse ($13.00FF) in Race 1, Flow Motion ($11.00FF) in Race 9 and Sod’s Law ($21.00FF) in Race 11.
Race 1 starts at 12 noon.
For full race entries, click here.
Through Mike Lovefor Harness Racing New Zealand
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