Perfect Art mare Good Lookin Girl, the defending champion, however, is unlikely to contest the race at this stage as she is under an injury cloud. Lucky Elsie hasn’t started since finishing third at Harold Park on September 12.

 “The Club was concerned at the non-appearance of Lucky Elsie, however, we have been assured by the trainer that she is in peak physical condition,” NSW Harness Racing Club Chief Executive, John Dumesny said. Trainer Paul Lasnick, who has trained the daughter of Christian Cullen to her greatest victories, stressed that he has always adopted a light approach to her work and racing schedule.

“I can understand the Club’s situation as I had not produced Elsie for a number of weeks,” he said. “While I have been laid low recently, she has not missed any of her preparation and it was always my intention of starting her fresh, as she performs at her best under this training regime.”

Lucky Elsie also competed in this year’s Ladyship Mile at Menangle Park on June 29, when fifth to Good Lookin Girl. Her career record stands: Starts: 39 Wins: 18 Placings: 9 Stake Earnings: $178,483 Best Winning Mile Rate: 1:55.4.

Sean VELLA