Gatt Launches Audacious Muswellbrook Cup Raid

THE allure of a country racing vibe and attractive $25,000 first prize sees premier trainer Mark Gatt make his first foray to Muswellbrook on Sunday.

Thirlmere-based Gatt will make the seven-hour round trip to Muswellbrook with kennel stars Ritza Debra and Leg Speed for an assault on the Ladbrokes sponsored Muswellbrook Cup (571m).

FIELDS AND FORM MUSWELLBROOK SUNDAY

But while the gifted duo boast a distinct class edge on their rivals, Gatt has offered a word of warning, with his star pairing set to line-up without the benefit of an all important trial at the venue.

"The new Muswellbrook track looks great – I'm looking forward to racing there on Sunday," Gatt offered.

"Both dogs are in top form but I didn't have time to trial them there which isn't ideal. I'm just hoping they get around on Sunday and qualify for the final and if they do they'll be all the better for it.

"It's good to get out to a country cup meeting and on grass as well. I couldn't think of the last time I did."

In a boost to Gatt's Muswellbrook Cup hopes, his two-strong contingent have drawn favourably for their respective heats.

Ritza Debra, a hugely impressive last start Dapto 600 metre winner, has drawn box one in the opening qualifier, while Leg Speed has drawn box two in heat three.

"I was surprised with how well Ritza Debra went at Dapto last week – she's airborne at the moment and jumping out of her skin," Gatt offered.

"And Leg Speed's run at Wentworth Park on Saturday was very good in a hard race from a bad draw. They're both going up there on Sunday in good form.

"They should handle the track first up no problem but you can never be 100 per cent."

The Muswellbrook Cup, worth $25,000-to-the-winner, is the richest race series ever staged at Muswellbrook. 

A huge day of festivities are planned for a gala final day on February 4 to celebrate the first Cup staged since the $3 million redevelopment of the track was completed last year.