The former Temora horseman is thrilled to have qualified a runner in the prestigious series.

It’s something he’s wanted to achieve since following his grandfather Russell Harpley into the sport.

“Growing up from a little kid watching the trots the Inter Dominion and Miracle Mile are the two standout races you dream of getting a horse into,” Alchin said.

“Having a trotter in an Inter Dominion final is pretty special.”

What makes it more special is the support Alchin will receive on the night.

His parents and grandparents are all going down from Temora to watch and with Harpley approaching his 90s it will be a big night for the family.

“He’s been in the industry his whole life and never had an Inter Dominion runner,” Alchin said.

“He supports us three boys unbelievably and if it wasn’t for him we probably wouldn’t be where we are today.

“Pop is going to come down and it’s going to be pretty special to have a runner on a night like that and have pop there to watch as he’s 87 now.”

Tough Monarch has been third and fourth twice throughout the heats of the series, each time finishing behind Tornado Valley.

Tornado Valley is currently a $1.70 favourite for the $150,000 race.

Alchin is looking for luck after the barrier draw.

The pair will start from the inside of the second row barring a scratching, but follow out second elect Speeding Spur ($3.20).

“It’s the final now, the big dance, and I’m hoping Tornado Valley doesn’t get an easy lead and they make him work a little bit,” Alchin said.

“If that happens and the speed is on it really puts my horse into the race.

“There is a fair bit of speed on the front and Save Our Pennys and the two horse both get out quick as well.

“I’m unsure if Speeding Spur can hold up, I hope to God that he can, and if that is the case then I think my horse is a really realistic each way chance.”

Tough Monarch is the $12 third favourite.

Alchin is pleased with how the seven-year-old has come through the gruelling series.

He’s confident he’s never had the horse better.

“All three of his heat runs have been really good,” Alchin said.

“He’s had to make his own luck to qualify and I’m really happy with him.

“He’s come through his three runs really good, worked good (on Wednesday) and I couldn’t be happier with him.”

Meanwhile, the Young-owned Village Witch has drawn nine in the consolation for the pacers after just missing out in a place in the final.

She finished third in the last of the heats on Saturday night to finish 14th in the standings, three points adrift of qualifying for the final.

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