4 June, 2003

After just one mainland appearance the question is being asked.....could he be the next Mont Denver Gold?

Tasmanian raider Foxfighter has earned the wrap this week after his barnstorming debut for the Barry and Chris Alford (pictured) stable last Friday night at Ballarat.

The talented addition to the Hunter Cup winning stable produced a withering sprint to score by an ever-increasing 10 metres in a 1:59.2 mile.

Punters will get an even better insight into his ability when the smart three-year-old steps out in the $10,000 Bendigo Guineas at Lords Raceway this Saturday night.

Driver Chris Alford is adamant the 16 start veteran is up to the challenge, but admits it'll be a good eye-opener for all.

"It's a good field without there being any standouts", said Alford.

"I picked this race out for him because I thought most of the horses from last week's Sires would be having a break.

"As it turns out Lord Vader and Russell Jack's horse (Iontheball) are the only two who are backing up.

A chance call from owner and Tasmanian Pacing Club Chairman Noel Salter a month ago, has delivered the pride of the Apple Isle to Alford's Bolinda stables.

"Noel wanted him to learn to race because he's led in most of his races over there.

"When I took him back off the gate last week he got pulling a bit, so that's something we'll be looking to improve.

"He only arrived 10 days before Ballarat so we're still learning about him.

Alford expects improvement from his first-up appearance against the older pacers.

"He' hadn't raced for a bit over a month so I think he'll improve with that run and he's trained on well this week.

"He sprinted hard the other night, but I think he can do a bit of work in his races too.

A talented field will contest Saturday's 2415 metre feature with Foxfighter (gate nine), Prince Bonton (gate five), Mister Sloy (gate six), Lord Vader (gate eight) and Iontheball (gate four) considered the main hopes.

After an unplaced effort in the Vicbred Semis when forced to do a ton of work outside the leader, local pacer Prince Bonton is expected to improve.

Despite gate five the Garry Graham-trained gelding looks likely to find the lead and he is unbeaten this season as the pacesetter.

Australia Gold winner Mister Sloy will also fly the local flag for Sonia Mahar, who's recently returned from a successful stint in New South Wales.

The Fake Left gelding is fresh off a win at Yarra Valley and retains the services of ace reinsman Gavin Lang.

The Bendigo Guineas will be run at 8.30pm (AET) on 7 June.