Trainer Norm Gardner is optimistic that his home-bred mare Dupli Kate can secure her seventh career win in Monday’s Hutchinson Civil Benchmark 82 Handicap (1400m) at Albury. Despite some uncertainty surrounding the mare’s ability to handle wet track conditions, Gardner believes a drop in class will work in her favor.

Dupli Kate, a daughter of Star Turn and the second foal of Gardner’s former winner Atom Eve, has compiled a strong record with six wins and 10 podium finishes from 16 starts. Her last victory came in June 2024 during her first and only previous appearance at Albury. More recently, the mare competed at Randwick on Queen Elizabeth II Cup Day, finishing four lengths behind winner Bella Corazon in a respectable effort on a difficult track.

Gardner acknowledged the challenges posed by varying track conditions, noting Dupli Kate fared well on a heavy track at Moruya, but added that he hopes weather conditions remain stable on race day. “Every track is different,” he said. “It is more if the rain comes on the day.” The mare recently underwent a knee operation and has been eased back in training, with Gardner confident she is ready to perform.

Joining Dupli Kate on the journey to Albury are stablemates Wolf Island and two-year-old debutant In The Attic. Gardner bought In The Attic for $11,500 at the 2025 Inglis Classic Yearling Sale. Although the colt’s recent trial was described as “terrible,” Gardner attributed this to the horse’s fitness and attitude rather than ability. In The Attic’s form has improved, with a second-place finish in a recent jumpout at Canberra, leading Gardner to anticipate a promising debut.

Wolf Island will also contest the benchmark event, switching from racing on a synthetic surface to tackling softer ground. Though progeny of Capitalist are often considered less effective on wet tracks, Gardner believes Wolf Island’s physical stature and individual characteristics may offset that reputation. “There is not a lot of Capitalist in him. He would be 17 hands high and a great, big, tall fellow,” Gardner said.

With three runners set to contest the race, Gardner’s team will test their adaptability in varying conditions. The outcome will provide further insight into the capabilities of his stable’s prospects as they aim to build on recent performances.