Rising star "will be tested this weekend"

RISING star Constantinople "will be tested this weekend" as he undertakes a major step up in grade.

Unbeaten from five starts since joining the Belinda McCarthy stable this season, Constantinople is engaged in the opening round of the Inter Dominion at Albion Park on Friday night.

Kept fresh since his win at Club Menangle on September 30, the son of Trixton rounded off his pre-series preparation with a trial victory last week.

Rapt with the trotter's progress, part-owner Jerry Glavas admitted he is reserved, but hopeful, about Constantinople prospects in the time-honoured Championship.

"We have always had a fair opinion of him, but he is a very big horse which has always needed time," Glavas said. "He's a six-year-old which has only had 22 starts, but not through injury or anything like that.

"He is as sound as a bell, it's just been a matter of him maturing...time has been his best friend.

"This year he has come of age, but whether he is ready for that next step we will soon find out.

"Belinda is very happy with him and has no doubt he is up to it."

To be driven by McCarthy's husband, Luke, Constantinople has drawn to settle in a prominent position from barrier five, with TAB Fixed Odds keeping the gelding safe at $9.50.

Constantinople's former stablemate, Ollivici, heads the market at $2 from gate three for training partners Chris Lang and Sonia Mahar.

"Ollivici is a star and no doubt the one to beat," Glavas said. "If anyone can have him right for the Inter Dominion it is Chris.

"We've drawn well and can hopefully earn good points heading into the second round."