2 December, 2003
Brian Gath (pictured) is the new reinsman for
super-stayer Franco Heir.
Trainer Martin Herbert today confirmed that the
Bendigo legend will replace John Caldow in Saturday night's $50,000 Graham
Quarries Cranbourne Pacing Cup.
"John is obligated to drive Nolarama, so Brian
will drive him (Franco Heir)," the Coldstream-based trainer explained.
"I have a bit of input in the process, but
ultimately it's Bob's (Proberts, owner) decision to make, he wanted Brian and
I'm happy with his choice.
"If he wins the Cranbourne Cup on him, then he'll
probably retain the drive for the Victoria Cup."
Gath will chase a record third consecutive Cranbourne
Cup after wins on All For One (2002) and Seelster Sam (2003).
A confident Herbert was talking tough after today's
barrier draw about his prospects in the Group 2 feature.
"There's no better stayer in Australia than Franco
Heir," Herbert declared.
"Sokyola's a great horse, but I'm pretty
confident this will be our Cup.
"We had his measure in the Kilmore Cup when we
sat outside him for the last 1400 metres and I think he's a little vulnerable
over a longer trip.
"I do believe my horse has had an ideal
preparation and it's the race I've had in mind for a while now.
"He came straight home after the (Cordina) Sprint
in Sydney, has put on all the weight he lost during the trip and worked the
joint down this morning."
"Believe me, it'll take a very good horse to beat
him."
Franco Heir has drawn gate five in the 2585 metre
feature, directly inside Sokyola.
Most experts believe the battle for the early lead
between the duo will be crucial with Lagoon Lady (gate two) tipped to hold the
front lead early before looking for a trail behind either of the big guns.
The $50,000 Graham Quarries
Cranbourne Pacing Cup will be run at 10pm (AEST) on 6 December.
