Lincoln Hanover gallops like a winner for Wanganui on Thursday

Lincoln Hanover’s final track gallop on Tuesday has put him squarely in the winner’s frame for Wanganui on Thursday.

Lincoln Hanover, a three-start maiden, matched strides with six-win mare China Star to run the fastest 800 metres of the morning at Awapuni in 52.1, the last 600 in 38.9.

It only served to confirm the Showcasing three-year-old has gone ahead since his terrific last start second at Wairarapa on March 24, when he was collared right on the post by Outthegate.

“He worked very well,’’ says Latta. “He definitely looks like our best chance this week.’’

Placed in two of his only three starts, Lincoln Hanover has drawn nicely in five for the fifth race and has the tactical speed to take advantage of it, having led from the outside gate last time.

“He’s a really nice type of a horse and he’s really settling down now,’’ says Latta. “He used to be too keen.’’

Lincoln Hanover gets 1kg weight relief on Thursday with leading apprentice Ryan Elliot riding him and drops back 50 metres to 1350m in a very winnable looking race.

“The obvious danger will be Dublin Rose from barrier one but I think he can go one better than his last start.’’

Lincoln Hanover is the first foal of the Lohnro mare Princess Lincoln who won four races for Latta and Lincoln Farms, all in very wet ground.

The Wanganui track was rated a slow 7 this morning.