Confidence high ahead of dual Cup attack
HEADING into a pair of Cups with last-start winners has certainly boosted Sam Barker's confidence ahead of Saturday night's Globe Derby meeting.
Add a favourable draw into the equation and the Victorian trainer is "upbeat" about his chances of figuring in the finish.
Successful in a heat last weekend, Ultimate Vinnie is primed to capture the South Australia Pacing Cup after receiving barrier three according to the horseman.
"I'm really happy with that," Barker said. "He has come through his heat in perfect condition, trained on brilliantly this week and now has the draw to make him the one to beat.
"We'll be looking for the front from there and I honestly think can lead all the way, but the option of handing up is there if needed as he can sprint as well.
"Those options are up to Allan (McDonough, driver) as the race unfolds, but I'm going into this pretty confident."
Less than an hour later Barker and McDonough will combine to tackle the Trotters' Cup with Mercenary.
Also triumphant in a heat, Mercenary is a $1.60 favourite from his 30-metre handicap.
The son of Majestic Son overcame the same mark to score by 16 metres in his qualifier.
"Obviously with the two heats now into one field the Final is a little tougher, but I'm still upbeat about his chances," Barker said.
"The plan will be similar again and as soon as dust settles he's got to head off around them and try to dictate the terms from the death to have the race run at our tempo.
"I want it to be a slugfest, a true staying race. He can run a quick last half when held for a sprint if needed, but his strength is what we'll be relying on."
In what has the potential to be a phenomenal evening for Barker, he also has Remi Lou in the Derby.
To be driven by Lochie Cook, the filly faces a difficult task from the inside of the back row.
"The draw's not that bad as I think it could become a genuinely run Derby as the two favourites have drawn the front and could go to war early, which can bring those out back into it.
"She will probably stay on the pegs and be looking for an opening late, but if that happens, she will be hitting the line strongly."
