3 minute read

While Bjorn Baker, prolific at Central Districts tracks and Bathurst’s Dean Mirfin have the numbers and form to dominate Friday’s Orange TAB meeting, respected local trainer Andrew Ryan has select value chances.

As Warwick Farm-based Bjorn Baker educates newcomers at Orange and neighbouring Bathurst where trebles and even four winners are on his resume, he and Dean Mirfin provide the favourites throughout the eight-race meeting.

However, Andrew the son of the region's racing and sporting institution, the late Doug Ryan, invariably contends with a small but well-bred home team.

Andrew's highly consistent dual race winner Possibly So was very impressive winning at Bathurst in December and is primed by a recent 1000m Orange barrier trial.

Possibly So ($7 on TAB) contests the Spanline Class 2, 1400m and will oppose Baker and Mirfin runners with 58kg for Anthony Cavallo who rode the gelding in the trial and also in several previous starts.

A powerful finish is in the genes, as Possibly So by Star Witness is a grandson of AJC Derby winner Starcraft.

"Have always had an opinion of this gelding, a half-brother is racing really well in the US, and we had success with his half-sister, we're building him up for longer races," Andrew explained.

"He's still wayward and learning but the raw ability is there and he's certainly forward enough for this off his work and a trial.

"His previous win last prep he came from last, did things wrong but was still too good. So he'll certainly be strong at the 1400m, looking for more ground.

"If he keeps progressing the way we anticipate he'll make a nice a Country Cups horse next prep."

Andrew Ryan's maiden mare Cuddles ($9.5) contests the second race: "She's an honest little trier, limited but turn of foot to put herself in the race, trialled OK and without knowing the opposition in a suitable maiden."

Meanwhile, Baker is represented in most of the eight races and will provide several favourites. Orange will race on a Soft 5 in cloudy weather with wind about.