Prebble can nail hotpot Whyte in the Challenge
Favourite Douglas Whyte will be shooting for three Jockey Challenge wins in a row, but arch-rival Brett Prebble can steal his thunder, starting with Country Charm in the opening event.
The opening race could be pivotal in the wash-up of today's Jockey Challenge, with Prebble able to grab an early lead in the standings, while Whyte watches on from the jockeys' room.
Prebble ($3.60) hops aboard David Hall's raw talent Country Charm, who is likely to head betting in a Sun Wui Handicap (1,200m). Whyte misses out, with Mega Champion withdrawn before declarations.
The Australian also has the numbers advantage of nine rides to Whyte's eight, a rare occurrence.
After Country Charm, Prebble's day looks solid with rides on Amazing Venture (race two), Take By Storm (race three), Classic Boy (race four), Mighty K (race five), Viva Fighter (race six), Genki Moochi (race eight), Summer Dash (race nine) and Free Judgement (race 10).
Making Whyte's day even more difficult are a couple of unfavourable draws on key runners. With the rail in the 'C+3' position, finding the fence will be crucial and the South African, who was a $2.50 favourite, will have his work cut out on Dispatcher (race five, drawn 10) and Glorious Days (race six, drawn 11).
