Devendra likely to stay in WA for feature races

Star Tasmanian pacer Devendra fell victim to a horror harness racing draw that led to him finishing last in the Inter Dominion final at Gloucester Park yesterday.

With his trainer James Rattray in the sulky, Devendra was taken back at the start from his near outside front row draw (8) while eventual winner and race favourite ($2.20) Lennytheshark was allowed to settle outside of the leader Lovers Delight that worked hard early to retain the lead.

Rattray allowed Devendra to remain in last place with the hope something ahead would make a move but it was left to him to instigate a three-wide train at the bell (final lap).

He gradually eased his way into the race three-wide and for a fleeting moment down the back stretch he looked set to stake a claim but when the leaders also increased the tempo he was unable to get into the race at the business end of proceedings.

Once he realised it was a futile exercise he didn't knock his horse about and he finished at the rear of the field.

Lennytheshark went on to defeat Lovers Delight with Flaming Flutter, that trailed the leader throughout, sticking on well to finish third.

Rattray indicated he would leave Devendra in WA in the care of former Tasmanian Gary Elson who hosted Rattray and Devendra during their stay.