Australia: Hidden Hills could end skid in Monday handicap

Hidden Hills has finished third in his last two starts in Australia under similar circumstances – a late rally good enough to hit the board, but a length or two away from a win.

A scenario could develop in a 7 1/2-furlong handicap at Port Macquarie on Monday that would end the losing streak.

Trained by Kim Waugh, Hidden Hills could have a favorable trip behind expected favorite Oakfield Prince and the longshot Beyond Mars, who both tend to set the pace and could engage in a speed duel.

Hidden Hills has won 2 of 18 starts, including a one-mile handicap at Scone Racecourse on April 14 when he closed from 11th of 14 to prevail by a nose.

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Oakfield Prince will have his fourth start Monday, having won his debut in a maiden race at about 6 1/2 furlongs at Muswellbrook in January. More recently, Oakfield Prince was sixth and second in handicaps at six and seven furlongs in late April and mid-May.

Port Macquarie has an eight-race program, beginning at 10:15 p.m. Eastern, or 7:15 p.m. Pacific, on Sunday. Wagering is available through DRFBets.com.

Oakfield Prince and Hidden Hills are part of a full field of 14. Dr Copper rates as a contender, particularly to hit the board. In 15 starts, Dr Copper has one win and nine second- or third-place finishes.

Dr Copper was fifth of 13 in a handicap at 7 1/4 furlongs at Quirindi Racecourse as the 5-2 favorite, losing by 7 1/2 lengths. Dr Copper ran at the back of the field early in that race, and failed to reach contention.

Dr Copper has won at 7 1/2 furlongs at other venues and will have his first start at Port Macquarie on Monday.