FORMER leading reinsman Paul Cavallaro is in a strong position to break his long absence from the winners’ circle at Globe Derby on Saturday night.
Recently returning to the industry following a three-and-a-half year hiatus, Cavallaro is searching for his first victory since scoring with Day Dream Dancer at Globe Derby in December 2013.
Cavallaro hopes of winning rest with promising freshman Culture King, which will contest the Sapling Stake – a feature Cavallaro won with Big Ilija in 1995.
Second upon debut earlier this month, Culture King then finished third last week, with Cavallaro pleased with the two-year-old’s performances.
“Last week they went slow early and sprinted home, which didn’t suit him,” Cavallaro said. “Although nothing came from behind and beat him, it wasn’t his style of racing.
“He is more strong than quick, so the more even the tempo is all the way along, the more he will enjoy it.
“On his debut he probably should have won after racing in the breeze and only getting beaten a short half-head. I will take the blame for that.”
Culture King has drawn barrier two this time around, with Cavallaro confident the son of Art Major will play a strong role in the finish.
“I’m pretty pleased with the draw,” Cavallaro said. “I was hoping for one or two, which he got.
“He’s been working well and getting better all the time and will run a good race that’s for sure.
“Disclosure from the pole and Above Average from four are the pair to beat, but with a bit of luck, we will get the job done.”
