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Hermanito has been beaten in two appearances this preparation through no fault of his own.
The brother to the Group winner Chocante just needs the right track conditions at New Plymouth on Thursday to prove that point.
“To be fair, he had no chance in his first start at Awapuni and next time there he drew one and was caught on the rail and had nowhere to go,” local trainer Janelle Millar said. “They are just runs you have to forget.”
Hermanito, who was caught four wide without cover when resuming, will have an opportunity to turn his form around in the Landmark Homes Handicap (1800m).
“He’s a class act, but I wouldn’t want the track to get too firm for him,” Millar said. “He hasn’t got the best legs.
“We’ve looked after him and he just needs a bit more experience. He’ll be much better in the autumn.”
Millar will also be represented in the Rating 65 event by Lovethefeeling, who recently resumed on the course last month, and a fresh Mistress Porotene.
“Lovethefeeling has had that one run under her belt and the 1400m was too short for her, she’s drawn well too,” Millar said.
“It all depends on the track for Mistress Porotene. A Dead 4 would be fine, but a Good 3 could be a bit too firm.”
The four-year-old hasn’t raced since she was a course and distance winner on her home turf in August.
“She’s a lightly-framed mare who doesn’t need much racing,” Millar said. – NZ Racing Desk.