A kind barrier draw has put Catcha Lefty in the mix.
The Queensland Derby winner is chasing an invitation for the Gr.1 $200,000 Chariots of Fire at TABCORP Park, Menangle on February 11 – the ultimate 4yo event on the east coast of Australia.
Husband and wife training combination of Charlie Cini and Cristina Monte arrived in Sydney last week with a team of seven spearheaded by Catcha Lefty and since the field and draw was confirmed earlier this week, they can dare to dream.
Catcha Lefty will start from gate two, drawn right alongside star New Zealand pacer and race favourite Our Waikiki Beach who landed the coveted inside gate.
And regular reinsman Shane Graham, the sunshine state’s best, now has a myriad of options from the ideal draw.
“I couldn’t have wished for a better draw, it’s absolutely perfect because we have so many options plus we can drive him with cover which is best pattern of racing. We’ve always said he’s a superior off a helmet, he proved that in the Queensland Derby last season.” Graham said.
The Village Jasper gelding has faced the starter on two occasions this season following his home state Derby triumph last July which includes a last start victory at Albion Park on January 3.
Catcha Lefty is yet to race at Menangle but he is no stranger to traveling following his unsuccessful raid on the Australasian Breeders Crown in Melbourne as a juvenile.
“He’ll relish the big open spaces that Menangle provides, he’s a very sensible and intelligent horse and I’m expecting another big effort from him because he’s given me great confidence since his return this campaign.
“I was actually quite stunned when I drove him in his first trial back, he had grown and developed really well and his efforts in both trials and races to date have been very solid. Charlie and Cristina are excellent horse people, they know him inside and out and I’m sure he’ll be ready for a big effort again.
“My initial reaction and most logical at this stage without speaking with Charlie and Cristina is just to pull on the left line and follow Our Waikiki Beach everywhere he goes. Yes, he got beaten last week but the run was still very good and he’ll strip much sharper this week. A genuine speed looks guaranteed and the fence is the place to be given those conditions.”
The winner is automatically invited to contest the Chariots.
But a minor placing would certainly enhance the chances of gaining an invitation for the main event.
Graham is no stranger to the Chariots of Fire, he drove star mare Sparkling Melody back in the 2003 edition at Harold Park.
Sparkling Melody finished 7th behind Kiwi mare Oaxaca Lass.
Approved By Dean Baring www.harnessbred.com
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