BENDIGO trainer Kym Hann hopes a pair of his stable’s runners can step up and have an impact on Bendigo Cup day.
Hann has the promising mare All About Nicci engaged in a strong benchmark 70 handicap, while Awake in Grinzing will chase success in the final heat of the Melbourne Cup Carnival Country Series (1400m).
He said both faced tough assignments, but still rated each a solid each-way chance.
Originally trained by Danny O’Brien, Awake in Grinzing is having his sixth start for Hann after nine for his former mentor, including his debut win at Sandown over 1200m in July last year.
The Bendigo trainer said it was hoped the four-year-old gelding could recapture some of his earlier career form.
“I’m sure if we can get him back to back his best we can get him back to city level,” he said.
“I want to get him out over 2000m as well, that’s my aim.
“We’ll slowly step him up and I’d love to get him to the final of the country series next Thursday.”
Awake in Grinzing, who will be ridden by Harry Coffey, will be one of three local horses in the race alongside the Josh Julius-trained Dubai King and Shaun Dwyer mare Savaju.
All About Nicci will be having her first start for four weeks.
The five-year-old mare has won four of 15 starts and rarely runs a poor race., including a last start fifth over 1000m at Moonee Valley.