Hoping for a "dream" result

PROMINENT horsewoman Cristina Monte hopes a deep heritage connection can pave the way for a "dream" result this weekend.

Although based in Queensland, Monte spent her early years in Picton, where her father, Alf, stabled a small team.

Immigrating from Italy "a very long time ago", Alf had a passion for harness racing, which began in his native land.

During his Australian days, Alf trained his horses at Menangle - the same place Monte is poised to contest Saturday night's Inter Dominion Final.

"Dad had trotters in Italy and even after moving to Australia he loved training them," Monte said. "We lived in Picton and he trained them at the old Menangle track.

"Dad was the first immigrant to win a race at Harold Park a very long time ago.

"I've got so many precious childhood memories of Menangle, and with a lot of luck, I'll create another one on Saturday night, which would be a nice way to honour Dad starting me off in the sport."

Monte's prospects rely on rank outsider Jimartee, which is at $101 with TAB Fixed Odds.

Drawn barrier seven, the son of Sportswriter finished fourth during the first two heats before being runner-up behind Don Hugo in the third round at Menangle last weekend.

"He's been honest ever since we've had him and the heats haven't been any different," Monte said. "I thought each heat run was really good and he proved himself competitive.

"We haven't got the best of draws and it's going to make it very difficult. I suppose we are the visitors and got the visitor's draw.

"Don Hugo will be the hardest to beat, but it is a pretty even field and any one who gets the luck can win...maybe it will be us!"