HILLSIDE RUNNERS TODAY

Three runners for us on the Hillside course at Sandown today including Tuscaloosa Chief on debut.

The son of Alabama Express tuns in the first race over 1500 metres under Jamie Mott and co-trainer Glen Thompson is happy to get him to the races.

“He’s been a work in progress and continues to improve and we’re happy with him heading into today,” Glen said.

“He’s come on from his last jump out and he pleased in a grass gallop with an older horse last Saturday and we’re confident enough in his ability to start him off in the city.

“That said whatever he does today he’ll be better for the experience and he’ll improve on what he does today. From the favourable barrier the plan will be to let him settle near the speed if he jumps well which I’d anticipate he will.”

Japanese Emperor and Tasman Park both run in race eight over 1300 metres with Daniel Stackhouse riding Japanese Emperor (pictured).

“He’s in really good shape and we’re very happy with him and he’s improved from his first-up run,” Glen said.

“His work has been very pleasing and he goes to the races today in good order. The barrier could make things awkward but if he can get some luck and find a position then we expect him to run well in what does look a competitive race.”

Jye Mc Neil is aboard Tasman Park and he too is pleasing the team.

“Very happy with the way he has come back and the way he is training,” Glen said.

“Like Japanese Emperor he’s drawn awkwardly but we’ll leave that up to Jye. Today’s race is a good starting point for him and while he is going to need luck from the draw, we’ll be looking for him to be hitting the line strongly and we are expecting him to run well.”