Tough Love will get the chance to become one of the few fillies to win the NSW Trotters Oaks/Derby double when she takes to the track at Tabcorp Park, Menangle on Saturday night.
Only three other fillies have won both races. Habibti was the last to achieve it back in 2013, while Jauriol (2005) and Right Interest (2006) have also won both.
Tough barrier draw
With the NSW Trotters Oaks already in the bag, Tough Love will now get the chance to join them when she contests the Group 1 NSW Trotters Derby
Trainer-driver Rickie Alchin is delighted with her form having won the last four starts but says she will have to be at her best to overcome a tough barrier draw.
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“I was more than happy with her run in the Oaks and she pulled up a treat, which is why she is going around again,” said Alchin. “She is a really nice filly and she’s building a strong record. She’s earned her shot at the ‘boys’. The draw hasn’t made it easy though.”
Courage Stride threat
Tough Love will be the one to beat but she is up against a quality field, including Courage Stride, who Alchin sees as a real threat.
“Like I said, she hasn’t drawn the best and this is a really strong field, so it is going to test her,” Alchin added. “I’m looking forward to seeing how she steps up though.
“Courage Stride has looked impressive this time in, but there is a lot of solid form in the field and there are several realistic chances.”
