Warwick Farm trainer Bjorn Baker hopes to make a successful hit-and-run visit to Wagga on Thursday with Liveandletdie in the Wagga Town Plate (1200m).
The accomplished five-year-old sprinter will be having his first start for the New Zealand-born trainer after previously being prepared by Mark Kavanagh in Melbourne.
The son of Street Cry was purchased last year as a tried horse with previous part-owner Lawrence Eales retaining a major share in the gelding.
The remainder of the syndicate is made up of Baker’s stable clients.
“He’s a nice horse,” Baker said.
“And has got some serious form in Melbourne.
“I decided to target the Town Plate because it’s easier than going to Randwick and it would be nice to get a quick return for the owners.”
Liveandletdie has won five of his 18 starts and boasts a Listed victory at Flemington and a closing 2-1/2 length seventh to Hay List in the 2012 Group One Newmarket Handicap.
Four of his wins have been over 1200m.
“I’ve had him a couple of months and brought him up slowly,” Baker said.
“He’s not that big but a very strong horse, typical sprinter.
“He’s had two trials to get him ready. I’ve got my fingers crossed he can run up to expectations.”
Liveandletdie has drawn well in barrier three and will be ridden by Brenton Avdulla.
In contrast one of his major rivals, the ultra-consistent Living On A Prayer, drew barrier 17.
“I would have been confident Living On A Prayer could win with a good barrier but coming up with barrier 17 is a worry,” trainer Dave Heywood said.
“I’m hoping he can get across okay and not use up too much petrol.”
