Superstar issues ominous warning

QUEENSLAND superstar Leap To Fame has issued an ominous warning ahead of his A G Hunter Cup defence.

Triumphant in last season's edition of the Grand Circuit event, Leap To Fame is back in Victoria as he prepares to become just the fifth champion to retain his title since the Cup's inception in 1949.

Sheffield Globe was the ground breaker thanks to his wins in 1961 and ’62, followed by Monara in 1973, and ’74, Pure Steel in 1977 and ’78 and Blossom Lady in 1994 and ’95.

Scoring first-up from a 12-week break at Albion Park last week, Leap To Fame proved too good in the Casey Classic in Melton just moments ago.

"I couldn't be happier with him," trainer Grant Dixon said. "He had that setback late last year, which saw him miss some of the big races we were aiming at, but he is over those and back to his best.

"He was sharper again tonight than he was last week and will be better for this run.

"With plenty of work, a trial and two good races under his belt, he will be spot on for the Cup."

Driven by Dixon, Leap To Fame was beaten for early speed from barrier three as Tact Mcleod dashed to the lead from gate six.

Sent forward to find the front, the son of Bettors Delight travelled comfortably throughout before completing a metre-and-a-half win from Tact Mcleod.

New Zealand raider Republican Party was eight-and-a-half metres away third.

Rating 1:52.6 over 2240 metres, Leap To Fame took his record to an imposing 46 wins and nine placings from 57 starts for earnings of $3,278,035.