A heavy rain forecast in Sydney is set to influence the plans of training partners John O’Shea and Tom Charlton, who are likely to send two mares north to Brisbane in search of firmer footing.

Up to 60 millimetres of rain is predicted over the next three days, and with Junqueira and Countyourblessings both preferring dry ground, O’Shea says they are unlikely starters in Saturday’s Listed Razor Sharp Handicap (1200m) at Randwick.

The pair also hold nominations for the Listed Just Now Quality (1300m) at Eagle Farm, which is shaping as the far more suitable option.

“Just as a result of the weather, I think they will go to Brisbane,” O’Shea said soon after acceptances were declared.

Junqueira’s preparation has been interrupted by multiple scratchings due to wide gates, and she returns after striking trouble when unplaced on The Hunter undercard.

She comes up with the inside draw in Brisbane, and O’Shea urged punters to keep her safe.

“The other day she was about to run well and got galloped on,” he said.

“We were optimistic about her at Newcastle, and it didn’t go our way. She is one that can bounce back and it wouldn’t surprise us.”

Countyourblessings also draws well in barrier three and resumes in the mares’ feature, boasting a strong fresh record.

“She is in great form. She has trialled up really well,” O’Shea said.

“We’re trying to jag some black type for her ownership group, and we’ll see if we can do it on Saturday.”

The Just Now Quality is one of three stakes races on the card, with the $300,000 The Gateway (1400m) the afternoon’s highlight.

While not a black-type race, The Gateway grants its winner a golden ticket into the Group 1 Stradbroke Handicap (1400m) next winter.

If you’re having a bet this weekend, compare top Australian bookmakers at JustHorseRacing’s betting hub.