Million Dollar Chase winner Good Odds Harada is somewhat of an unknown quantity heading into tonight’s Group 3 Shootout (515m) at Sandown Park.
Trainer Frank Hurst said that while his $6.50 outsider is good enough to win what looms as a fascinating four-dog contest, a lack of local knowledge could count against the superstar.
“He has broken the second sectional records at virtually every track he has been to, whether that be in a race or a trial, which demonstrates his ability,” Hurst said.
“However, he is at a distinct disadvantage in the Shootout because he has never been to Sandown before.”
The Londonderry trainer said that the freakishly-talented Hooked On Scotch is the greyhound to beat, however he said there was no guarantee that the short-priced favourite would get an unimpeded run despite the smaller field.
“Good Odds Harada will run straight out of the boxes from Box 5 and he’ll hold his line,” Hurst said.
“I don’t know a lot about Hooked On Scotch but I’m told he moves off the track a little bit. If that happens, there may be some chance that he and Good Odds Harada make contact, which might open up the race for Whiskey Riot.”
Hurst said his main aim with Good Odds Harada is the TAB Melbourne Cup.
“With only four dogs in the Shootout I see this race as an ideal lead into the Melbourne Cup heats,” he said.
The Melbourne Cup heats will be run next Friday.
