Opening round draw not too bad after all

AT FIRST glance a second row draw is a disappointing way to begin an Inter Dominion.

But for New South Wales horseman Jack Trainor having his newest stable addition start from the back row in Ballarat on Saturday night could be a blessing in disguise.

Due to arrive in Victoria tomorrow, Trainor's dual attack on the prestigious series includes Wolf Stride which will make his debut under the trainer's care.

Owner Emilio Rosati elected to transfer the son of Rock N Roll Heaven for the Championship, with the gelding previously prepared by Darren Binskin.

Although Wolf Stride is yet to recapture the form which led to multiple Group One victories, Trainor is quietly confident the six-year-old is ready to remind opposition of his talent.

TAB Fixed Odds have Wolf Stride listed at $15 in the first heat.

"I wasn't too happy about the draw, but on further consideration it could be a good draw to start off," Trainor said. "It gives me a chance to drive him conservatively in the first round and still hope to get some good points.

"The sprint lane is in operation. so with a bit of luck. he might even be able to make use of that and come home nice and strong."

Trainor also has Perfect Stride drawn to settle in a prominent position from barrier two in the third heat.

Among the placings at his last three starts, Perfect Stride will thrive on the gruelling conditions of three heats in a week according to Trainor.

"Backing up won't worry him," Trainor said. "He carries a bit of weight, so he will get through the heats just fine."