Monumental task awaits undefeated filly

UNDEFEATED filly Ark Sea faces a monumental task tomorrow night.

Engaged in The Protostar at Albion Park, Ark Sea is not only the sole member of the 'fairer sex' in the field, she has drawn poorly in the $500,000 slot race.

To trainer Sam Hewitt's dismay, the daughter of Stay Hungry will begin from barrier six over 1660 metres.

Ark Sea has won her two starts - Wagga and Bathurst - in impressive fashion.

"We had not long arrived in Queensland when we got the draw and it quickly went from excitement to disappointment," Hewitt said. "We were hoping for a nice kind draw, which didn't happen, and took the wind out of our sales.

"Ability-wise, she is good enough to be in it, and can run a big race, but it is hard when you're drawn out that wide."

To be driven by Will Rixon, Ark Sea has been kept safe in betting markets, with TAB Fixed Odds listed the two-year-old at $9.

Victorian youngster Cardigan Dan is the $2.50 favourite from the pole.

Cardigan Dan is one of three entrants trained by Emma Stewart, with Loucasso and Dynamitedan rounding out the trio.

"She hasn't raced against such opposition, but has done it very easily," Hewitt said. "I think she will go well, but we will be relying on some luck and a kind run."