Jimmie, Star Racing Writer

DOUBLE THE HONEY returns three pounds heavier for another clash with POTCHEEN in tomorrow's 1100-metre St Catherine Cup, but should defy the handicaps and repeat his New Year's Day victory over the local-bred.

The seven-year-old American repelled POTCHEEN down the backstretch and held his rival's challenge to the wire at 1300 metres under a strong ride from Dick Cardenas.

POTCHEEN had beaten DOUBLE THE HONEY by four lengths in December, and was surprised by the American who upset him at odds of 9-1 on New Year's Day.

stronger handling

DOUBLE THE HONEY's reversal of four lengths on POTCHEEN suggests the American is back to his best and will be even harder to beat going a furlong shorter tomorrow.

POTCHEEN returns with the 55.0 kilos he carried on New Year's Day and will have stronger handling behind the saddle with Omar Walker replacing apprentice Shamaree Muir.

Though Walker's more robust riding style and the handicaps seem to have swung the advantage to POTCHEEN, the reduction in journey should level the playing field.

Expect Cardenas to put the American in the lead early, possibly disputing the fractions with UPPA TUNE, who is down in class but also heavy with 56.0 kilos.

first-timer

POTCHEEN will come charging at DOUBLE THE HONEY, but Cardenas should use his skills to keep the American going in the stretch run.

There are a couple questionable ante-post favourites on tomorrow's card including the debutant BIGMAN BAS in the second. The Gary Subratie-trained first-timer goes up against Anthony Nunes' RELAMAPAGO, who has four runs under his girth, including a second place to finish to COGNAC, and should use his experience to beat the debutant.

UNCLE G has really trained well for the third race and could be a raceday springer after posting 1:16.2 for six furlongs last week Thursday morning.

PEGASUS has also impressed at exercise for new trainer Arnold Rambally and should use his superior mid-race pace to run rivals in to the ground at 1400 metres.

FEELINGINTHESLIPS should also return a good price among $180,000 claimers after his strong fourth-place effort behind PALACE DANCER, return winner SPIC N SPAN and ZACK at 1500 metres on Boxing Day.