By Adam Hamilton
TOP local trainer Gary Hall Sr is still optimistic of winning his fourth Inter Dominion final in the past six years.
Im Themightyquinn won three finals on end in Auckland (2011), Perth (2012) and Sydney (2013).
Jimmy Rattray’s superstar Beautide won the next two, but Hall Sr has two chances – Waylade and My Hard Copy – to reclaim the title on Sunday.
“Going into the series I thought Waylade and My Hard Copy were the best of our six chances and could make the final,” Hall Sr said.
“They had their ups and downs during the heats, but finished off well with good runs last Friday.
“I’m thrilled they’re both through, but they will need luck for sure.
“It’s hard to split them, but Waylade (gate two) certainly has the better of the draws.
“Then again, the draw wasn’t so important to My Hard Copy so even from out in nine he will drift back and come with one run.”
Hall Sr, like so many others, thinks Lennytheshark is a deserved clear-cut favourite.
“He’s been the best horse through the heats and was huge even thought he was beaten the other night,” he said.
“The draw suits him. Even if he doesn’t lead, Chris (Alford, driver) gets the chance to control the race from outside the leader.
“My two will need a really genuinely run race. We’ll need the leaders to roll along and for something to make a three-wide move at them in the middle stages.”
Waylade is the most favoured of the Hall Sr runners at $8.50 on the Aussie TAB. My Hard Copy is an $11 shot.
Approved By Dean Baring www.harnessbred.com
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