Ciaron Maher’s dominance in Tasmania’s summer racing season could continue as he sets his sights on the Launceston Cup after securing a quinella in the Hobart Cup.

Maher’s star stayers, Strawberry Rock and Promises Kept, are set to clash once again over 2400m, having fought out a thrilling finish in Hobart earlier this month. In that race, Strawberry Rock narrowly took the win, but Maher is thrilled with how both horses have settled into their Tasmanian preparation.

“They’re absolutely thriving down there,” Maher said as he looks to claim his first Launceston Cup. “I’ve got a great team looking after them, and they’re both in fantastic order.”

Promises Kept, who carried less weight in the Hobart Cup, will enjoy a 2kg advantage this time, though both he and Strawberry Rock will share topweight honors at 59kg. Mark Zahra, in pursuit of his first Launceston Cup victory, takes the reins on Promises Kept, while Declan Bates retains the ride on Strawberry Rock.

Having already secured victory in the $100,000 Summer Cup (2200m) before his runner-up finish in the Hobart Cup, Promises Kept is a leading contender to reverse the result. Meanwhile, Alhambra Lad, trained by Patrick and Michelle Payne and runner-up in last year’s Launceston Cup, is expected to be competitive once again.

Other key runners include Pure Grunt, trained by Ken and Kasey Keys, who is attracting strong early support, and Tasmania’s best local hope, Asva, who recently claimed the Sydeston Cup (2100m).

The Launceston Cup is one of three feature races on the card, accompanied by the $150,000 Group 3 Vamos Stakes (1400m), where Geegees Mistruth headlines the field, and the $125,000 Listed Hellova Street Stakes (1600m), featuring The Inevitable and Munhamek.