Trainers and Owners have given the new Acton Track the vote of confidence with wonderful fields assembled for the inaugural running on the Polytrack surface.
100 horses have accepted for Friday's race meeting at Thoroughbred Park across eight strong races. 47 of these gallopers are from Canberra-based stables, a reflection of the widely positive feedback the Acton Track has received from both Trainers and Riders since it was re-opened for track-work, seven sets of jump-outs and a barrier trial.
Friday's meeting is highlighted by a strong edition of the TAB Federal (1206m) with 11 quality sprinters to do battle in the Benchmark 70 contest worth $34,000.
Rob Potter's Almost Persuaded was an impressive winner of the lone barrier trial conducted on the new surface before a strong showing first up at Wellington when beaten just a length and a half in sixth.
"She was outstanding first up." Potter said. "Two of them took her on the whole way and in the end the 1400m just got the better of her."
"She's had four weeks between runs and is perfectly placed here after drawing a nice gate (Barrier Six)."
"She really loves this surface and after seeing a number of jump-outs I'm confident races are going to be determined by speed, not just leaders win like you see on some synthetic tracks."
"We're going to take a sit and with plenty of speed engaged in this TAB Federal, she's going to be strong late."
Potter has been complimentary in his commentary on the new track and hopes all three of his gallopers can run big races on Friday.
"I have Tavolo and White Liar in as well and I think they're both really well placed." Potter said
"All of my horses really appreciate this Acton Track surface which has been excellent to work on."
Friday's race meeting at Thoroughbred Park features free entry and marks the first of a five meeting Synthetic season which will culminate in Acton Track Grand Final Day on Friday, 1 September.
Acton Grand Final Day is highlighted by the Polytrack Stayers Cup (1900m) and Sprinters Cup (1206m), both of which are Benchmark 70 contests worth $35,000.
