The current 1:49 mark was set last year by Queensland star Leap To Fame. While it won’t be easy to lower that time, the presence of noted speed demons Cheerstolou and Rakero Rocket creates the perfect scenario for the winner to challenge the record.
And with a guaranteed place at the March 14 Miracle Mile, those involved will do their utmost to claim the prize.
Cheerstolou has been a revelation since joining Donny Smith’s stable at Redcliffe, the former Victorian man heading to Newcastle with an impressive record of nine wins from his past 10 starts, and having ideally scored in gate three.
Former Kiwi pacer Rakero Rocket joined Jason Grimson’s all-conquering stable at the end of November and has since lowered the colors of a number of big names in his last few outings, including a 1:47.3 performance at Menangle against a strong field that included star Goulburn pacer Captains Knock.
He will be standing next to Cheerstolou in gate four and the pair will likely compete against each other from the start.
A benefactor from that likely scenario could be veteran Victorian pacer Bulletproof Boy, who will start from the outside in gate eight.
Despite the tough draw, the Scott Ewen-trained 11-year-old will benefit from the services of James Herbertson in the outing.
Last weekend, Herbertson claimed victory in the Ultimate Drivers Championship in Brisbane, and he is riding the crest of a wave heading into this event.
“I can’t wait to get to Newcastle to ride the old boy again,” said Herbertson.
“He has been such a great horse for me and his connections over the last few seasons and although we have come up with a terrible barrier, he is a horse that needs to be ridden to get to one run, and there will probably be a lot of speed up front.
“Hopefully we can start the race at the right time and if that happens I have no doubt he can be at the finish.”
For full race results, click here.
Through Michael Dumesnyfor HRNSW
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