Gartrell’s Star Shines In Inter Final
11 December, 2018
Harness
If Rob Gartrell allows himself the luxury of dreaming, he could be in line for a massive 48 hours as he strives for a memorable feature interstate double.
Perth’s prolific owner could have up to four runners in Friday’s Group 1 Golden Nugget (2536m) at Gloucester Park, headed by Ana Malak, Bettor Aim and Mighty Conqueror.
Once his commitments are done and dusted on home soil his attention and focus will turn to Melton in Victoria where he will be represented by Galactic Star in the 2018 Inter Dominion.
Western Australia’s sole representative has stepped up to the plate and proved he could be up to the task after recording one win and two placings from the three round of heats.
And in a further morale boost for Gartrell and trainers, Greg and Skye Bond, Galactic Star has drawn the coveted inside draw at a function on Monday.
What started as an ambitious and lucrative target for Galactic Star has now turned into a distinct winning reality. The Perth pacer is now rated a $5 chance.
“That was very exciting and to get barrier one in an Inter Dominion final is exactly what we were hoping for,” Gartrell said on TABradio.
“It certainly gives us a good chance in the race and sets ourselves up to be very competitive.
“I think the horse has done a fantastic job in the series and it’s the perfect draw for him.
“He has good gate speed as we know and should be able to hold up.”
After reinsman Todd McCarthy handled the heats, Gartrell confirmed Ryan Warwick had been booked to drive Galactic Star in the final.
“Ryan has had a terrific season and is a very important part of our team,” Gartrell said.
“He has driven at Melton before and is looking forward to the trip.”
Gartrell said he was hoping to get similar good fortune in the barriers for his runners in the Golden Nugget.
Ana Malak has underlined his potential with two wins from as many starts since coming to Perth.
The Bettors Delight colt is chasing back-to-back feature wins after posting a determined victory in the Group 1 Yes Loans 4YO Classic (2130m) at Gloucester Park on November 30.
Bettor Aim also holds an unbeaten record in Perth when he brought up his fifth win at Pinjarra last-start when defeating Marquisard on November 19.
Mighty Conqueror posted four wins in a line before coming unstuck behind Ana Malak, running third in the Yes Loans 4YO Classic.
“We are going to have good representation in the Nugget,” Gartrell said.
“Bettor Aim, Mighty Conqueror and Ana Malak will be very competitive depending on the draws.
“It gives us firepower in the race and we should be right in the cut up I would think.”
Julio Santarelli
Photo: Scott Hamilton Media