Shock initiation for well-bred prospect

BRED to be among the best of his crop, Ima Terminator will be given a shock initiation during the weekend.

Making a successful debut in Ballarat three weeks ago, Ima Terminator was runner-up at his subsequent outing in Bendigo on November 1.

Pleased with four-year-old's progress, trainer Ian Caruana has Ima Terminator engaged in Saturday night's Breeders' Crown Championship, which represents a major step up in grade.

The small, but strong, field of six, includes Miracle Mile winner Catch A Wave, the highly-regarded Captain Ravishing and the talented Hes Charlies Angel.

By Somebeachsomewhere, Ima Terminator is from broodmare gem, Amarillen, making the gelding a sibling to three Group One winners - Villagem, Miss Graceland and Nostra Beach.

Ima Terminator is also 'uncle' to millionaire Soho Tribeca, along with Group One winners, Carlas Pixel and Soho Nolita.

"My son Anthony bred him, but he had a bit of a tendon problem in his early days, so was left out for a long time," Caruana explained. "He was left to run around the property and basically be a wild horse.

"One day Anthony gave him to me, so I put him in work and straight away I thought 'oh my'!

"So I looked up his breeding and was surprised at how well bred he is.

"John (Caldow) has driven him in his two starts and said 'he really doesn't know what he is doing' which shows in the way he races."

With Caldow to take the reins again, Ima Terminator has drawn barrier four, with Catch A Wave the favourite from the pole.

"I looked at noms and there were only six in it and I thought why not, we'll give it a go," Caruana said. "I know Catch A Wave and Captain Ravishing are both very good, and I don't expect to win of course, but it wouldn't surprise me if he runs in the first three.

"If he shows what I know he can, he won't be far off them.

"He's got the potential to be the best horse I have touched and I expect him to keep getting better as he gains experience and maturity."