The Mick Price and Michael Kent JnrĀ stable will send two in form gallopers to the Mornington Guineas.
But they enter the race hopeful rather than confident of coming away withĀ a major slice ofĀ the prizeĀ money on offer.
Demon Darb, to be ridden by Craig Newitt, and King Samuel, Daniel Moor, will line up in the 1600m on Saturday, their firstĀ shot at a metropolitan race.
King Samuel will beĀ attemptingĀ to remain unbeaten after leading throughout to claim his maiden debut win at Kyneton before following it up with a win over Saturday’s distance at Kilmore.
“He’s been beating average horses and he still has to improveĀ a bit,” Price said.
“But he toils away well, and I suppose you can only beat whatĀ you’veĀ been racing against.”
Demon Darb has spent most of his time under Price and Kent Jnr’s care down at their Warrnambool base under the watchful eye of Matthew Williams.
The Pierro gelding broke through for his maiden win at Warrnambool last month before running second at Hamilton on April 2.
Following that run, Demon Darb wasĀ transferred to his trainers Cranbourne stables to prepare for Saturday’s race.
“We change them around all the time depending on temperament and what we think is best for the horse,” Price said.
Price said that tactic had worked with Demon Darb who deserves his shot at a metropolitan race although the trainer is not convinced the tight Mornington circuit will suit Demon Dar.
However,Ā PriceĀ is willing to give the gelding a shot at the good prize money on offer.
“I’mĀ not sure thatĀ he’sĀ suited to Mornington, butĀ it’sĀ a three-year-old race,Ā it’sĀ $150K andĀ it’sĀ worth having a punt,” Price said.
“I thinkĀ he’sĀ a 2000-metre horse. A big,Ā strong type.”
