All eyes will once again be on the Brad Hewitt-trained Captains Knock (Captain treacherous), who is looking to take another step toward the $1 million harness racing bonus offered in the five-meet Carnival series.
The five-year-old started his campaign in perfect style, winning the Bidgee Cup in Wagga on November 14.
Hewitt has Captains Knock in the best form of his career, with the talented pacer living up to the promise he showed as a youngster.
Despite drawing the outside gate in the seven-horse field, Hewitt is brimming with confidence after a thrilling sub-1:50 performance at Tabcorp Park Menangle last Saturday when he captured the Brian Hancock Free-For-All.
“He’s really in the zone at the moment and we can’t wait to get him to Newcastle for Friday night’s feature,” Hewitt said.
“Nothing comes easy in the top flight and we are meeting another strong field as you would expect. But we are excited about the opportunity to take another step towards that million dollar bonus.”
Reflecting on last week’s win, Hewitt added:
“He was great at Menangle. He did everything I asked of him and broke the 1:50 barrier, which shows that I couldn’t have let him go any better.”
Captains Knock also enjoys strong recent form at Newcastle, having won a heat of the 2024 Inter Dominion there, overcoming a tough three-wide run over the 2030-metre journey.
In support of the Steel City Cup is the final of the $75,000 TAB Hunter Regional Championship, featuring a competitive field of 12 horses.
Harness Racing New South Wales has also planned a great evening of entertainment off the track, headlined by Newcastle’s own rock legends The Screaming Jets. They are joined by multiple ARIA Award winner Alex Lloyd, reigning Golden Guitar Female Artist of the Year Max Jackson, and local favorites Ignita and Just Us Duo.
Customers planning to attend are encouraged to obtain their free ticket online at www.carnivalofcups.com.auwith an unforgettable evening of racing and entertainment guaranteed.
Through Michael Dumesnyfor HRNSW
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