Closure leaves trainer searching for options

IN-FORM pacer Mikicool is likely to undertake an interstate campaign in coming weeks.

Already toying with the idea of travelling with the son of Always B Miki, South Australian trainer Greg Scholefield stated Globe Derby's pending closure has all but forced his hand.

With Globe Derby to undergo well overdue renovations, racing has been transferred from the venue to Gawler and Port Pirie, with the state's main Saturday night programs to be conducted in Port Pirie.

Facing the prospect of a 14-hour round trip from his Narracoorte base, the 75-year-old horseman stated the extended journey is simply not viable.

"The drive from my place to Port Pirie is not something I can do," Scholefield said. "It's just over six hours without a float and that's one way!

"It's already hard enough driving four hours to get to Globe Derby, but that extra travel and time puts it in the out-of-the-question basket.

"It is fantastic Globe Derby is getting an upgrade, but the in between isn't suitable for us trainers down this end of the state.

"I was thinking about giving him a crack in Victoria, so I guess that's the way I'll have to go.

"Given he is in top form, the timing is right anyway."

Mikicool certainly strengthened his case for a border-crossing venture when he trounced his rivals at Globe Derby last night.

Driven by Gaita Pullicino, Mikicool led throughout from barrier two to score by 12 metres from Springfield Affair, with Back In Twenty a half-head away third.

Rating 1:57.9 over 2645 metres, the gelding registered his fourth win from his last six starts, with a pair of fourths also in the mix.

"I couldn't be happier with the way he is going," Scholefield said. "He is getting better all the time and can certainly gives every indication he will continue to improve."