HURRICANE TO HIT THE VALLEY

Three runners in two races at Moonee Valley on Saturday including Hawker Hurricane resuming.

Hawker Hurricane commences his spring in the Mitchell McKenzie Stakes (Listed) over 1200m with Mark Zahra to ride.

Mike Moroney took Hawker Hurricane and Strike Force to work at Moonee Valley on Tuesday and was pleased with what he saw.

“They didn’t go there to do anything spectacular but it was a strong gallop and Hawker Hurricane handled the course comfortably,” Moroney said.

“He has come back more relaxed as a gelding and he is certainly coming along nicely.

“His last jumpout was good and while he is in at Listed level I do think he’s up to this level and while he’ll improve for the run I’m expecting him to run well.”

Strike Force and Radipole both run in race six, the Open Handicap over 1519m.

Strike Force was back in winning form last time out at Bendigo and he drops 6.5kg for this harder race.

The scratchings have reduced the field to eight and Moroney believes Strike Force will be competitive.

“He’s won at the Valley and with the scratchings he might be able to get a softer time near the lead,” Moroney said.

“He’s particularly fit, is nice and bright and with weight he should be competitive.”

Radipole is proving frustrating and Moroney has dropped the import back in trip from his last start over 2040m at Moonee Valley.

“He looks terrific but he’s not really racing at his best,” Moroney said.

“We’ve dropped him back in trip and he’s on the minimum here. After the scratchings he should have no problem settling on the speed along with Strike Force and if he brings his bets form then he’s well in.”