Securing a tough outside barrier might delay Desert Lightning’s fresh start to his campaign at Mornington.

The Peter Moody and Katherine Coleman runner has barrier 17 in the Listed Hareeba Stakes (1200m) on Saturday from 17 declarations, with 60kg for Luke Nolen.

Maximum field of 15 on the day, including two emergencies.

First-up Saturday after spring, Desert Lightning last raced in the Crystal Mile (1600m) at Moonee Valley back in October.

Coleman revealed a call is pending on whether to brave the wide gate Saturday or opt for another engagement.

“He’s really just there first-up for a fitness run, so we’ll have a good look at the race and see whether we save him for another day,” Coleman said.

“It’s not the end of the world.”

With his preparation on track, Coleman expects Desert Lightning to head to Queensland for the Winter Carnival.

Fourth in last June’s Group 1 Stradbroke Handicap (1400m) at Eagle Farm, it’s again targeted by the stable this year.

As an older campaigner, Desert Lightning is in good order for the winter, per Coleman.

“He’s trialled really nicely this time,” Coleman said.

“He’s nice and fresh, he seems in a good headspace for an older horse. He’s really enjoying his work.

“Whether he runs first-up on Saturday, or whether we wait another day, we’ll make that decision, but I think he can run well if we decide to go there.”

She’s Got Pizzazz, another from the stable, gained entry to the field in gate 8 for rider Linda Meech.

Coleman highlighted that softer conditions at Mornington would aid She’s Got Pizzazz post her two 1100m runs from a freshen-up.

Track rated Soft 5 at Wednesday acceptances for Mornington.

“She’s ideally looking for 1400 metres now, but she needs another one at the 1200 (metres) to bring her on fitness wise,” Coleman said.

“She needs soft ground as well to see her at her best, so we’ll be on weather watch a little bit there as well.”

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