Saturday, 12 May 2012: Trainer Todd Howlett admits his in-form gelding Quindelop faces a hard test to extend his current winning sequence in Sunday's $20,000 Gunnedah Cup .
 | Todd Howlett
Photo by Racing and Sports | |
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Quindelop is unbeaten this campaign, winning four in succession, with Robert Thompson his rider in all four races.
“Undoubtedly Sunday is his toughest test,” said the Cessnock-based trainer.
“But I believe he's a horse still with upside. He's done a great job so far. Hopefully he can keep it going.”
Thompson has elected to ride Quindelop on Sunday over race rival Prior Baron.
“Robert's won on him in the past four starts. He was happy to stick with,” Howlett said.
Howlett said Quindelop was a “tougher” horse since returning from a 208-day spell in February when he won first-up at Muswellbrook.
“He's a better all-round horse,” Howlett said. “We're letting him find his feet early. That's how he likes to race.”
Spacing Quindelop's runs has been another factor,
"He likes to stay fresh. Keep him keen,” Howlett added.
Last start
Quindelop 
steamed home from second last on settling and sustained a strong run out wide to beat The Bargain over 1400m at Tamworth on April 29 following wins at Muswellbrook, Wyong and Taree.
Howlett admits Quindelop has been well placed working through the grades and stepping up to 1600m will suit.
“He's won over 1600 metres and I don't think Gunnedah will be a problem.” he said.
“The horse has worked well, he's bright and happy and should race well Sunday.”
Overall Quindelop has recorded six wins and four placings from 13 starts.
The four-year-old gelding by
Spinning World is raced by John Duggan and his Dapto-based brother, Phillip. Quindelop is named after John Duggan's Coolah property.
