3 minute read

Northern aces Ben Looker and Matthew McGuren ride the numbers and form to dominate Friday’s capacity Lismore TAB meeting.

They combine with heavyweight regional stables, including Matt Dunn's at Murwillumbah that has provided McGuren with over a century of winners in recent seasons.

It's a racing weekend of extremes for Matt, travelling from his farm near Grafton for seven fancied runners at Lismore and then the near eight hours to Rosehill Gardens on Saturday, for just two rides, including TAB $51 chance Fortyfive Parklane for his wife Samantha in the TAB Highway.

"Just happy the way the weather has been that we're racing, I've got nice chances all day at Lismore but the heavy makes it a tough day," Matt offered.

His best likely are Sir Bangalow, I'm Gunna Cashew and Squeeze Dis who have wet track form and drawn well.

"I rode Sir Bangalow when he ran second, just found one better his past three, handles ground and ready to break through for sure in the right race," Matt said into the JB Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Maiden (1526m).

Dunn's I'm Gunna Cashew contests the Lewis Electrical BM 58 (1210m) where Matt opposes his wife Samantha with Attestar and Looker.

"Could be a rough trip home if I beat Sam," Matt chuckled.

"She's definitely the danger but mine has come back a lot stronger mare this time in, extra race fitness, I feel she's ready to win."

Dunn's Squeeze Dis contests the Pirlos Plant Hire BM 58 (1400m).

"A real improver, knocked up last start but she'll be fitter, previous solid placings at Newcastle we're in stronger races and Matt is putting the blinkers back on I think.  Good gate, wet form, yep.

"Fortyfive Parklane can run a race, stronger grade yes but still a country Class 3, drawn in, going really well providing the track isn't on the worst side of heavy."