Russian Empire and Crackin’ Crown will both make returns of sorts this weekend after suffering injuries.

Sinclair said he expected Russian Empire to perform well but said the danger could be if he was too keen from the start.

“He’s a beautiful, big, strong horse. He’s come up really well.

“He’ll jump out and if he doesn’t lead the race he’ll be in the first three because he’s a faster horse, but the last 80-100 metres will be his worry because he hasn’t raced for so long.

“We’re fortunate we’ve got a swimming pool down the back which has helped in his recovery because it’s taken some of the pressure off his legs.”

Recent rainfall meant the track would be softer which Sinclair felt would benefit Russian Empire, even if there was no further rainfall before Saturday.

“We’ve just taken him a bit soft in the lead-up so he needs a race start to put him at peak fitness. It won’t surprise if he wins,” Sinclair said.

“You’d do worse than put a few dollars each way on him. I’d be surprised if he doesn’t run in the first three or four at least.”

Another horse from the Sinclair stable ready to race on Saturday is Crackin’ Crown who has recovered from a cracked foot following his maiden victory, but Sinclair said he was now ready to go.

“Crackin’ Crown is in the class two 1300 metres on Saturday but it’s his first run in a little while.

“He won in Moree in his last start and we were getting him ready for his second start when he cracked his foot, so we had to put him out in the paddock and repair that.

“He’s good again now though.”

Moree race club secretary Michelle Gobbert said the Easter race meeting provided a perfect opportunity for families to witness some quality racing action.

“It’s a bit more relaxed than our Cotton Cup and Christmas races and there will be plenty for the kids to do including jumping castles both big and small, face painting and the Easter bunny will make an appearance.”

Overall 42 horses have been nominated and Gobbert said the first race would start at 1.30pm with a healthy crowd expected.

“We usually get around 300-400 people which means there will be enough room for the kids to run around.”

Gates open at midday.