By Adam Hamilton
IT is a decade since Melbourne last hosted the sport’s marquee event, the Inter Dominion.
And this year, much to delight of the industry, the trotting series is back as a key part of it as well.
Yes this is an Inter Dominion lacking star power after so many injuries, retirements and relocations of our open-class stars over the past 12 months, but it’s an intriguing series with the traditional format and genuine representation from all around Australia and NZ.
Aussie correspondent ADAM HAMILTON takes a look at both the pacing and trotting divisions.
THE DIARY
- Saturday, December 1: First round pacing and trotting heats at Melton
- Tuesday, December 4: Second round pacing and trotting heats at Ballarat
- Saturday, December 8: Third round pacing and trotting heats at Cranbourne
- Saturday, December 15: Grand Finals night at Melton
THE PACING SERIES
THE ONE TO BEAT
Tiger Tara: He’s one horse in this series genuinely proven at the elite level and through a series like this. Other than last start in the NZ FFA, his form has been simply outstanding. Tough, versatile and will relish the three heats into a final.
THE DANGER
San Carlo: Home state hero who cut his teeth in the Perth series last year where he won a heat. Specifically set for this, no question he’s developed a lot since last year and strong enough to make his own luck to a certain extent.
THE BEST KIWI HOPE
Cruz Bromac: Ok, he’s only recently become a Kiwi, but he is clearly a major player. Didn’t have much luck in NZ Cup then led and gave nothing else a chance in the NZ FFA. Dual Group 1 this season (Len Smith and NZ FFA). And he’s had plenty of experience at Melton when trained in Victoria by Dean Braun.
THE WILDCARD
Galactic Star: Don’t let this guy get under your guard. Won a heat last year in Perth and ran a terrific fifth in the final. No question last year’s series was stronger with horses like Lazarus, Soho Tribeca, Chicago Bull, etc. Has gate speed and expect him to be a serious player.
THE TROTTING SERIES
THE ONE TO BEAT
Tornado Valley: Hard to believe he’s the same horse who started his career in NZ. Been an absolute revelation since joining Andy and Kate Gath’s stable. Very clearly Australia’s best trotter and the fact Kyvalley Blur ran so well in two recent NZ features says he form stacks up. Quick beginner versatile and will take a power of beating.
THE DANGER
Speeding Spur: Total class act, but is he going at his absolute best? Simply outstayed them at Kaikoura and two NZ Cup weeks runs good without being outstanding. Proven at Melton where he won a Great Southern Star. Huge chance on his best form.
THE BEST KIWI HOPE
Speeding Spur: As outlined above, but expecting Monty Python to be very competitive as well.
THE WILDCARD
Big Jack Hammer: Emerged from nowhere at the right time. Two runs for new trainer David Aiken terrific, including an easy win, albeit in much weaker class, last time. Has some “ping” for a trotter and could be a real surprise packet.
Approved By Dean Baring www.harnessbred.com
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