McGuren and Palmer combine with three runners
John Schell
Former jockey Samantha McGuren and apprentice Grace Palmer will be looking for success at Grafton on Tuesday, with the pair joining three other runners.
McGuren will retain the services of three-pound claimant Palmer, starting with Divine Effort in the Online Tickets @ Graftontickets.com.au Maiden Plate (1708m).
Divine Effort, a former Victorian galloper, made his first start for McGuren at Ballina last month and finished fifth.
“The increased distance at Grafton looks set to be in his favour, and the prospect of a dry track should help with that,” said McGuren. “He was well beaten at Ballina but managed to beat half the home field. I’m looking forward to seeing a better performance.”
Last start Port Macquarie winner Patriotiintention, ridden by Clarence River Jockey Club president Michael Beattie, will attempt to make two races in a row as he lines up on the July 15 Grade 2 Handicap Comparison 62 Handicap (1408m) GDSC Ramornie Handicap Day.
“His best runs recently have been when he’s raced on the pace, and he had a good win last time out when he led,” McGuren said.
“He has regained the distance for Tuesday’s race and enters the race at a good weight for Grace’s claim. He should push forward and take plenty of beating again.”
Jewels Statement will be the third and final runner for both McGuren and Palmer as they start in the Benchmark 82 Handicap (1005m) on Maclean Bowling Club Macleay Cup Day 19 July.
“She is a talented filly who won well at Grafton in September,” McGuren said. “He raced at Ballina after that and was a charm. He followed up with a second at Taree last month and that claim will help him too.”
Meanwhile, Newcastle trainer Kris Lees will rely on a runner at Grafton as he breeds Elegant Force to take part in the same race as Divine Effort.
Elegant Force, ridden by Andrew Mallyon, has finished third in each of his last two starts, beaten by less than a length at Grafton and two lengths at Gold Coast.
Provided by Racing NSW
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