The draw for the MIA Breeders Plate hasn’t fallen the way David Druitt wanted for Hieland Laddie.
The Morundah trainer-driver has come up with barrier 10 for his heat winner but believes the race will be run to suit the gelding.
With a number of the highly-fancied chances also drawing the back row, Druitt expects plenty of fireworks in the group three feature.
“He’s got really good gate speed and a really good head on his shoulder so it would be nice to be able to find a nice spot early from the front row but we will put with up it,” Druitt said.
“Anything could happen but I thought with the size and strength of the big horse Ray Walker is driving he will go forward and there will be genuine pace.
“I don’t think there will be any place to hide from the 400 metres home and there will be a few horses looking for a place to lay down.”
Expecting a hot tempo early, the Morundah horseman is looking to come charging home late.
It’s not usually how Druitt generally drives his horses but could pay dividends in the prestigious feature.
“I think myself and Peter Manning’s horse (Easter Jolt) will be some hope late,” he said.
“We will find the line very strong, we won’t do anything early and will be some chance.”
He believes Plumpton Hope is the horse to beat
“I feel if Ray Walker finds the top Ray Walker is the winner,” Druitt said.
“I thought he was a fair chance from the draw and it’s not a bad draw if he wants to go forward like he did last time.”
After winning the slowest of the three heats in tough fashion, Druitt has been pleased with how Hieland Laddie has responded to his debut run.
“He’s been terrific," Druitt said.
“He pulled up good and we worked him with Mister Matty (on Wednesday) and he felt good.”
