Keep an eye on Lincoln Hanover at Awapuni on Friday - he’s a real improver

Punters don’t have much exposed form to go on with Lincoln Hanover, but the horse is talented enough to get into the money fresh-up at Awapuni on Friday, says trainer Lisa Latta.

The racebook shows the Showcasing three-year-old beat one home in the mud as a two-year-old last July but Latta warns it would be folly to dismiss his chances on that.

“He’s got a fair bit of ability and, from a nice draw, I could definitely see him getting into the money. He’ll be hitting the line hard.

“He gets a little bit rattled headed at times but when Robbie rode him at the (Levin) jumpouts he said he’s the best he has felt for a long time.’’

Lincoln Hanover was never put under any pressure on February 20 but quickened up nicely to finish second in a 1000 metre maiden heat run in 58.59, the quickest of the day and better than the open heat won by Dratini in 58.71.

Latta has been patient with the horse because he has been growing and she says he’s now an imposing individual.

Both Lincoln Farms’ two other runners Authentic Charm (race 8) and Lincoln Hills (race 7) are looking for some easing of the ground, which they won’t get on Friday, says Latta.

Authentic Charm has not gone a bad race in three runs back but Latta says it won’t be until the autumn that we see the best of her.

With a bad draw of nine, Latta says she may even scratch her and wait for another day.

“Lincoln Hills is also looking for a bit of moisture. He doesn’t need it heavy but dead to slow would be ideal.

“We’ll just space his runs until we get the right tracks.’’

Lincoln Hills did what Latta expected last start at Awapuni, running a bold fourth in his first start for two months, despite being caught three wide with no cover.

With three weeks in between runs she is hoping he can perform again but the field is littered with up-and-coming types.