This Sunday’s race is being run for the first time. It’s the Pat McMahon eight kilometre handicap starting at East Devonport Beach. The course will be out-and-back heading easterly on the Heritage Walking Track. There is some sealed pathway along with a sandy track to provide variety.
As it will provide members with their last chance for a solid hit-out before the following week’s Feature Race, it promises to be a very keen affair. The winner will not have a handicap readjustment until after that event, so a victory here will not affect his/her chances in the big one.
Based on recent efforts the runner likely to start favourite is Terry Watson. He was in excellent form early on the season before missing many weeks with shin splints but since returning has been quick to display his best form. He was fourth last week at Gunns Plains following on from a fifth in the half marathon and then a second at Railton. Starting from a middle mark, he is certainly the one to beat.
Off a handicap just behind Watson, Josh Febey has looked close to breaking through all year and could do so here. He will certainly have Watson in his sights all the way and could overtake him towards the finish.
Others who look top hopes include Natasha Mapley, Mark Saint-John and Andrew Hay while backmarker, Thomas Murton, can not be discounted.
Nominated time events will be conducted at 9:15.
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