Trainer aiming to join industry legends

REIGNING champion Jason Grimson is aiming to join some industry legends during the weekend.

Should he successfully defend his Inter Dominion title Grimson will become just the third trainer to win consecutive Finals with different pacers since the series’ inception in 1936.

Successful in last season's Club Menangle-based Championship with Boncel Benjamin, Grimson will be represented by I Cast No Shadow in Saturday night's $500,000 decider at Tabcorp Park Melton.

As it stands the legendary Bob Knight along with power couple Mark Purdon and Natalie Rasmussen are the only trainers to achieve the feat.

Knight was the ground breaker after scoring at Harold Park with Our Maestro in 1988 and in Perth with Jodie’s Babe in 1989.

Purdon and Rasmussen were triumphant with Smolda in 2016 and Lazarus in 2017, with both wins recorded at Gloucester Park.

On a side note, former star pacer Captain Sandy is the only campaigner to win two Inter Dominions for different trainers.

Jock Bain prepared Captain Sandy to secure the 1950 series at the Ascot Vale Showgrounds, while Dinny Nolan rejuvenated the retired veteran to capture the 1953 Perth edition.

As for Grimson's attempt at greatness, his prospects were boosted after I Cast No Shadow drew the pole.

Many believe the son of Shadow Play will be pushed forward early in a bid to gain the run of the race behind the leader.

Fourth during the opening round, I Cast No Shadow was unplaced on the second night before a handy third in Geelong last weekend.

TAB Fixed Odds have I Cast No Shadow at $15, with Honolua Bay the $2.70 from barrier two.

"I'm very happy with the way he has come through the heats," Grimson said. "He has felt terrific this week and is ready to go.

"The draw gives him options, but I will be leaving the tactics up to Cam (Hart, driver).

"I think he certainly gets his chance to cause an upset from there."