THE chances of star Tasmanian galloper The Cleaner ending his campaign with a win in Saturday’s Railway Stakes at Ascot in WA improved dramatically today when the gelding drew barrier eight for the $1 million Group 1 event over 1600 metres.
In the field of 16 plus four emergencies The Cleaner drew barrier eight but will start from gate six if the emergencies don’t gain a start.
“I couldn’t be happier with the barrier – it’s ideal really,” trainer Mick Burles said today.
“The horse has settled in great here at Fred Kersley’s stables and his fast gallop this morning at the Breakfast with the Stars function was enormous,” he said.
The Cleaner’s trackwork rider Lucas Camilleri gave Burles a glowing report after the track gallop.
“The trackwork rider got off and said the horse gave him a great feel and commented that the horse has a very big motor,” Burles said.
The Cleaner was installed as $5 favourite to win the Railway Stakes but after drawing so favourably his price has been cut to $4.40 with Respondent the next best t $7 ahead of Elite Belle at $8.
The race will be run at 7.45 pm Tasmania time on Saturday.