In Brief
- Wahine Toa a likely starter.
- Six invaders could tackle Group 3 event over 2400m.
- Blacker holds the key to a local victory.
A total of 15 have been nominated for the Group 3 event over 2400 metres but the Tasmania Racing Club is hoping that increases with nominations extended until 9:00 Tuesday.
The other interstate invaders nominated are Ain'tnodeeldun from the Anthony and Sam Freedman stable, Anabelle Neasham's in-form European stayer Spirit Ridge, Chris Calthorpe's Fighting Arrow, Military Mission from the Waterhouse-Bott stable and the Ben and JD Hayes-trained Dark Dream that contested the Summer Cup in Hobart last Sunday week.
Wahine Toa has won three of her past five starts with the latest win coming at Sandown on Australia Day in a benchmark 70 handicap over 2400 metres carrying 58 kilograms.
"We are seriously considering making the trip to Hobart on Sunday with Wahine Toa because the mare is in top form and there doesn't seem to be a lot of depth in the list of nominations," Maher said from Melbourne on Monday.
"We will make a final decision on Wednesday but at the moment she looks likely to come."
Of the locals, Longford trainer John Blacker looks set to play the major hand with Longford and Devonport cups winner Swoop Dog and Brighton Cup winner Glass Warrior that also won the 2021 Launceston Cup.
Premier trainer Scott Brunton has nominated former Victorian Skyway Star and his home-grown stayer Travelling Gigolo that has always shown staying potential.
Final acceptances for the Hobart Cup are due by 9:00 Wednesday with the official Cup barrier draw to be held in the Conquering Room at Ladbrokes Park Elwick in Hobart at 11:00.
