Hart hoping for a repeat

It’s a tall order for young former Riverina harness racing reinsman Cameron Hart.

Yet he’ll be satisfied with a repeat effort of the four winners he landed at Tabcorp Park Menangle last week when he heads to the premier track for tonight’s stellar 10-race card.

Hart has a terrific book of drives, highlighted by four of Menangle trainer Jarrod Alchin’s ‘big guns’ . . . three of them carrying that now famous ‘Ultimate’ in their names.

Yet his first major mission for Hart will be the 2400m NSW Oaks, where he will partner stunning filly Madrid, chasing her eighth win from just 10 starts and a $2.50 second favourite to take out the fillies’ classic.

Then there will be three heats of the $200,000 NSW Derby with Hart a chance in all three heats with My Ultimate Billy (Race 8), My Ultimate Byron (Race 9) and My Ultimate Baxter (Race 10).

“It looks like I have a few nice chances, for sure,” said the modest Hart.

“Madrid is a filly that could probably have crossed and led from anywhere. Now from gate four I won’t have to use her up too much.

“She’s always been a good high-speed filly and to run a 1:54 mile last-start was a pretty good effort.

“I expect her to be in front and if we’re good enough, then we’re good enough.”

Hart says Derby hope My Ultimate Billy was a tough little horse who had a soft trial before a first-up win when he did it tough outside the leader and still won.

“If there’s some pace on, he’ll run home well,” he said.

“My Ultimate Byron felt good on the line even though he was beaten last-start and I think it might have been driver error rather than the horse’s fault.

“My Ultimate Baxter did disappoint a little last-start. But he’s fast and he’s also strong.

“He’s a good little horse, he’s versatile and is probably my best chance.

“Byron probably has the most ability of them all so I just hope he’s on his best behaviour tonight.”

Hart also drives outsider Majestic Cruiser in Race 4, the Schweppes Sprint, and Cruz Bromac in Race 5, the Allied Express Sprint with a spot in the Miracle Mile assured if either finish in the first two.

Cruz Bromac takes on the mighty King Of Swing in the second sprint.

“It’s a terrific draw and he gave me a good feel last weekend,” said Hart.

To view the fields for Menangle on Saturday night click here.

By Michael Court for HRNSW