By Adam Hamilton – In Perth
The Perth Inter Dominion isn’t the only thing on James Rattray’s mind.
The young former Tasmanian horseman is aiming to protect his “perfect” Inter Dominion record with Devendra in Sunday’s $1.3 million final at Perth’s Gloucester Park.
Rattray has only contested two Inter Dominion finals – the past two – and won them both with the mighty Beautide.
And it’s Beautide who is sharing the hype of Sunday’s Inter Dominion in Rattray’s mind.
That’s because Beautide makes his first public appearance back from injury in a Menangle trial today (Friday).
The minor leg injury stopped Beautide from chasing an Inter Dominion hattrick in Perth.
“It’ll be the first of two trials he’ll have before going back to the races,” Rattray said.
“Fia (Rattray’s partner) has been looking after him for the three weeks I’ve been in Perth and she will drive him in this trial.”
Rattray said he will map out Beautide’s racing plan after the mighty stayer had his first start back, probably around Christmas time.
“At this stage I’m leaning towards keeping him in Sydney and focusing on the Miracle Mile, but there is a chance we could pop down to Melbourne for the Victoria Cup (January 30),” he said.
More immediate is Rattray’s bid for a third straight Inter Dominion Grand Final win with Devendra on Sunday.
And the question everyone is asking is whether Rattray will gamble on a bid for the lead from his draw (gate eight).
“I’ve had plenty of advice on what to do, but I haven’t thought about it yet much myself,” he said.
“It’s a huge decision and one I’ll make after going back and looking at the gate speed of all the horses drawn inside me.
“He’s got so much speed. The question is whether to risk using it early for the lead or saving it for a big finish.
“There are pros and cons to both options. I’ve got some thinking to do.”
Rattray said Devendra had thrived during his three weeks in Perth.
“He loves it here. He’s handled the racing well and loves the small tracks here,” he said.
“He’s a better horse than when he arrived here. I’m really happy with him.”
Devendra has eased from $4.50 before the barrier draw to $11 on the Aussie TAB.
Lennytheshark remains a $2 favourite from Philadelphia Man at $6 and Lovers Delight at $7.
Approved By Dean Baring www.harnessbred.com
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