By Adam Hamilton
THE champ could be better than ever.
That is the timely warning and reminder from Beautide’s trainer-driver James Rattray ahead of Sunday’s Miracle Mile.
“I think he is as good, if not a little better than ever before,” Rattray said.
“He’s had a perfect preparation and will be spot-on for the big day.
“He’s had a really good week or since the last run, has come through it well and he trained really well earlier this week.”
Beautide’s formidable record at the track has earned him the crown “King of Menangle” where he’s raced 31 times for 21 wins, seven seconds and a third.
As well as two Inter Dominion wins over 3009m, Beautide has contested two Miracle Miles for a win (2013) and very brave second to Christen Me (2014).
“It’s great for me the race is here. There’s no doubt it’s where he races best,” Rattray said.
And the draw has been kind with Beautide (gate four) drawn better than his two major rivals in Lennytheshark (six) and Have Faith In Me (seven).
“I’m thrilled with the draw,” Rattray said. “We know Beau loves to run the gate when I ask him and I’ve got that option from the draw.”
And what about the main danger? Who does Rattray rate the hardest to beat?
“Have Faith In Me and Lennytheshark are the two,” he said. “Lennytheshark has been fantastic this season and we all saw how well Have Faith Me In went and the time he ran last time.”
Beautide is an easing $2.50 to $2.80 favourite on the Aussie TAB.
Have Faith In Me has been $3.20 into $3 and Lennytheshark $4.50 into $4, while Arms Of An Angel has eased from $5.50 to $6.50.
Approved By Dean Baring www.harnessbred.com
Driving The Future Of Harness Racing
