Chance to “finally” break maiden

IT’S a far cry from the dizzy heights of the Inter Dominion, but a win at Club Menangle tomorrow will still bring a large smile to Howard James’ face.

James will head to Australia’s premier track with “average” mare Its All Right Now in hope she can break her maiden in what will be her 23rd start.

Although Its All Right Now has been among the placegetters on several occasions, victory has proven beyond the daughter of Wishing Stone.

“She doesn’t have a lot of ability, but can win her races when things go her way,” James said. “This is not an overly strong field and she has been working well, so it could work out well.”

To be driven by Chris Geary, Its All Right Now has drawn barrier two, but slots into the pole as a result of a scratching.

With the three-year-old having a strong chance of settling in a prominent position, James is hopeful Its All Right Now can take advantage of the situation.

“She didn’t have a lot of luck at her first start back a couple of weeks ago,” James said. “She was off the gate, galloped and didn’t do a lot right.

“She was first-up for six months, so she was pretty fresh and just lost concentration.

“Hopefully she does everything right this time and can finally break her maiden.”

Following her pending outing, James plans to give Its All Right Now “a couple more starts” before sending her to Queensland horseman Stephen Cini.

“She is eligible for the Queensland bonus, so she will have a couple more starts here before I send her up to Steve,” James said. “Ideally she will win one here first, then pick up a win there and get her bonus.

“At this stage I’m not sure if she will race beyond this season as Andrew (Daniels, owner) may want to breed from her.”

Should Its All Right Now emerge triumphant, it will also break a 27-month drought from the winners’ circle for James.

James last enjoyed the sweet taste of victory on March 19, 2024 when Gunner outclassed his rivals at Club Menangle.

Gunner has finished second on five occasions, while running eight thirds since his win.

“He’s a consistent type, which just can’t crack it for that win lately,” James said. “I’ve freshened him up since his run at Menangle a month ago and hopefully next time in he can get that elusive win.”

Although the 69-year-old only trains a small team, James reached harness racing’s pinnacle during his more active days.

Partnering former champion Thorate for trainer Brian Hancock, James captured the 1990 Inter Dominion in Adelaide.

“Thorate was an old marvel,” James said. “It’s hard to imagine what he could do around a track like Menangle.

“He ran 53.9 at the old Harold Park track before they did it up and I’d have to say he’d break 1:48 at Menangle.

“He had so much high speed and would run a quick closing quarter whether it was over a mile or 2700 metres.”