Chance to go one better

CONNECTIONS of handy youngster Thunda Struck hope he can go one better in Melton on Saturday night.

Runner-up behind Val Thorens in last season's Breeders' Crown Final, Thunda Struck is engaged in the Three-Year-Old Final for co-trainers Chris Lang and Sonia Mahar.

In a case of "if you can't beat them, join them", Lang has secured Nathan Jack to partner the son of Muscle Mass.

Lang drove Thunda Struck in 2023, while Jack took the reins behind Val Thorens for trainer Anton Golino.

"Nathan drove him in the heat, so protocol dictates to stick with him for the Final," Lang said. "Besides, Nathan beat us last year, so hopefully now he can get the job done for us."

A luckless fifth in a heat in Bendigo last week, Thunda Struck will begin from barrier six in the $60,000 decider.

The trotter has been kept safe in betting at $14, with New South Wales raider Valtino the $2.30 favourite despite his second row draw.

Among the placegetters in two Group Ones during his last five starts, Valtino will come from gate nine for trainer-driver, Blake Fizpatrick.

"Our draw isn't ideal, but he fared better than the main chances, which are on the second row," Lang said. "He'll need luck on the night, but if things go his way, he is capable of going one better this year."