Damien Lane is excited about the prospect of his two runners in Saturday’s Polytrack Provincial Championship Qualifier at Newcastle.
The Wyong based trainer hasn’t had a runner in the Provincial Championship final at Randwick and hoping this could be the year.
“I haven’t had a lot of chances previously but these two are genuine hopes.”
Lane saddles up Oakfield Missile and Oakfield Twilight, both for well-known owner Bruce Mackenzie.
Oakfield Missile narrowly missed out on securing a berth in the April 13 final, when he finished fifth in the Hawkesbury Qualifier.
Lane said the mare was “very stiff” not to run third.
“With even luck, she would of got third and be in the final already,” he said. “We get another chance at Newcastle and she’s drawn soft this time.
“She likes Newcastle and has won three races there. Grant Buckley is sticking with her and I think she’ll go really well.”
Lane won’t be surprised to see Oakfield Twilight figure in the finish.
“He’s finished second at his last three starts behind three nice horses. He shows the same ability as Oakfield Missile at home but has taken a while to learn what it’s all about.
“He’s got a lot of ability but just has to live up to it on raceday.”
Fuchu, representing the Kim Waugh stable, has drawn barrier five and will be ridden by Robbie Dolan.
He is coming off a barrier trial win at Newcastle on February 27.
Prior to a brief let up he strung together three successive wins at Newcastle, Wyong and Kensington, and looks among the top chances.
