Drawn to extend perfect record

AN IDEAL draw has Island Bouhinia in a strong position to continue her perfect record since switching stables.

Transferred to Jarrod Alchin in early February, Island Bouhinia has won her two starts, including an Autumn Gift heat at Club Menangle last weekend.

Driven by Chris Geary, the daughter of Betting Line covered the mile in 1:49.9.

As such, Island Bouhinia will return to the premier club for Saturday night's $30,600 Final.

To connections' delight, the five-year-old has drawn to figure in the finish from the pole.

"She has been a top little pick up," Alchin said. "When Jack Painting (previous trainer) called me and said 'I think you should take this one' I thought her bush form wasn't that good, but Jack is usually right, so I figured I'd give her a go.

"Jack was right and I'm glad I did.

"She's only little, about 14 hands, but she is a good tryer which makes up for her lack of height.

"She has a good draw, which she needed, but I think she will acquit herself well."

Alchin will also be represented by Scared Stiff, which hasn't fared as well in gate eight.

Second behind Timmy Rictor in their heat, Scared Stiff slots into six with the removal of the emergencies.

"He's a smokey in this race," Alchin said. "If he gets a soft trip he will be running home hard.

"He got held up in the heat and may have even won if it wasn't for that."