Continuing push towards The Eureka

QUALITY pacer Petracca will continue his push towards the world's richest pacing event this weekend.

Sent for a well-earned break following his Victoria Derby triumph last October, the Emma Stewart-trained entire has enjoyed little luck during his two runs from a spell, which have netted a fourth and a second in Melton.

Taken north as part of a small 'Stewart squad', Petracca will be in action at Club Menangle on Saturday night.

Club Menangle is scheduled to host the $2.1million The Eureka on September 7.

Regarded as one of the nation's most exciting prospects, Petracca won six of his seven starts last season, with his victories including the Vicbred Super Series Final.

Overall, the son of Captaintreacherous boasts 11 wins and two placings from 16 starts for earnings of $314,053.

Petracca is vying for the slot purchased by his owner, Danny Zavitsanos, who also has Oliver Dan and High Above being readied for the event, with the latter poised to race in Melton on the same night.

As for his pending assignment, Petracca has drawn barrier six over a mile, but slots into five with the removal of the emergency.

"He's got a busy campaign ahead of him and Saturday night works in well," Stewart said. "We've been happy with his two runs from a spell and he will strip a lot fitter this weekend.

"Obviously he is in the mix to be in The Eureka, but at this stage, he is not a confirmed starter.

"The Vicbred is also on the agenda, so there are good options for him in the months ahead."