by Paul Courts
ALTHOUGH he heads into tonight’s battle at Globe Derby with sensational form, The Linemaster’s task is a difficult one.
That’s the call from the The Linemaster’s trainer Dale Afford, who believes the BOTRA heat represents a step up in class for the three-year-old.
Raced by the We’re Flying Syndicate, The Linemaster has scored at his last three starts, with the latest at Port Pirie last week.
The syndicate was formed by Harness Racing SA to promote the sport and its high-profile ambassador is Adelaide Crows footballer Josh Jenkins, who has teammates Richard Douglas and Tom Lynch as fellow syndicate members.
This time around the son of Tiz A Masterpiece will begin from barrier five, which is just one of his problems according to Afford.
“I couldn’t be happier with the horse going into the race, but this is a step up on what he has been going up against,” Afford said. “On top of that, from the draw he is likely to settle outside the leader which will test him.
“We’ll just have to see how it pans out.”
Citing Canada Bay as the main danger from gate four, Afford is also weary of Clarenden Hustler from two.
“While we are going up in class, Canada Bay is coming down on what he’s been racing,” Afford said. “He’s likely to go forward and look for the lead and is the one to beat.
“Clarenden Hustler’s form is solid, and with the right run, will be in the finish.”
Approved By Dean Baring www.harnessbred.com
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