Rising star to continue ascent

RISING star trotter The Locomotive is ready to continue his ascent to the top this weekend.

Arguably the best of his crop, the four-year-old is poised to contest the opening round of Inter Dominion heats in Newcastle on Friday night.

During his age-restricted career, The Locomotive captured five Group Ones while finishing among the placings in another two.

The son of Muscle Mass also secured a pair of Group Twos and a Group Three all under the care of Victorian horseman Wayne Potter.

Recently transferred to local trainer Brad Hewitt, The Locomotive has won his last two outings at Club Menangle, with several of his Inter Dominion rivals among the beaten brigade.

As such, the gelding is a co-$4 TAB Fixed Odds favourite for the December 14 Final at Club Menangle.

The Locomotive shares top billing with fellow quality four-year-old, London To A Brick.

"He's in top condition and ready for the series," Hewitt said. "This will be a good test for him as he has to back up quicker than he ever has given there are three heats in eight days.

"I can't see that being an issue and expect him to get through it without any worries."

To Hewitt's delight The Locomotive has drawn to find his favourite role as leader from barrier four.

London To A Brick will begin from gate five.

"It's a good draw for him," Hewitt said. "He has terrific gate speed and we'll be using it.

"If he finds the front, he is going to be very hard to catch as always."