Luck required for Starz to shine

HE’S got strong form and what would normally be considered a handy draw, but will struggle to win at Port Pirie on Saturday night.

That’s the opinion of trainer Ryan Hryhorec when discussing Torque Tothe Starz’s prospects in the Derby.

Set to begin from barrier three, the son of Four Starzzz Shark enters the feature with three wins and a second from his last four starts.

“He’s going really well and is great within himself, but it’s hard to see him winning without luck,” Hryhorec said. “The two main dangers have drawn inside him, which makes his job tougher.

“I’m not sure where he will settle from that draw, so I’ll be relying on a bit of luck in the run.

“If the breaks go his way, he can certainly win, but it’s a matter of getting things in his favour.”

Winner of last week’s South Australia Oaks, Passions Delight will come from barrier two for Dani Hill.

The talented filly has won four of her five outings since arriving at Hill’s stable, with her defeat a head second in the Gawler Derby after travelling in the ‘death seat’.

No stranger to feature success, Dont Tell William has drawn the pole for popular couple Toby and Lisa Ryan.

“Passions Delight is the one to beat, while the draw brings Dont Tell William right into it,” Hryhorec said.

Following his pending engagement, Torque Tothe Starz is likely to be sent for a spell before continuing his way through the grades during his next preparation.

“He has been up for a while and may even head for a break,” Hryhorec said. “I’ll see how he is after the weekend and go from there.

“After a spell, and a bit of time to mature further, he will certainly be capable of going through the classes quite easily.”