Hewitt knocking on Breeders Challenge glory

Harness racing’s in-form two-year-old Captains Knock (Captaintreacherous) is one of the most improved pacers racing in this state.

A winner at his past four outings, the colt captured both a heat and semi-final of the New South Wales Breeders Challenge for colts and geldings, paving the way for him to take his place in Saturday night’s (Oct. 29) $150,000 final at Tabcorp Park Menangle.

And while Captains Knock is his leading contender, Goulburn horseman Brad Hewitt will also be represented by Mick Danger (Captaintreacherous) in the race and then later in the night he will combine with Hez Dusty (For A Reason) in the entires and geldings four-year-old final.

“It is certainly going to be a great to be a part of the action,” said Hewitt.

“Having a horse involved in the Breeders Challenge Finals is always great, so for me to be lining up with three runners is pretty satisfying.

“We had a bit of luck with Captains Knock drawing so well in barrier three.

“He has really stepped up to the mark over the past few months and is ready to run another good race on Saturday night.

“Mick Danger is a quality animal as well and is not out of place in this final.

“He has been super in all his runs this season and although he will start as an outsider, he should not be written off.”

Hez Dusty has drawn on the outside of the back line in gate 12 and comes up against a hot field of four year olds in his Breeders Challenge Final.

He ran third in his semi-final and despite not having the best of draws, Hewitt believes that with the right run, his gelding is still a realistic chance.

“I know we are going to be a fair way off the speed, but he is quite talented and does love Menangle,” said Hewitt.

“If he gets the right run in the race, he will be steaming home.

“The mobile configuration whereby only eight start from the front line does help our chances.

“If we can just tuck in off the speed, we should get a good trip.”

Hewitt has three runners competing at Bathurst on Wednesday (Oct. 26) and considers Escape Artist in Race 1 as his best winning chance.

“I have been pleased with his runs this time in and if he can lead from gate one, he will take some stitching.”

For complete fields for Bathurst Wednesday, click here.

For complete fields for Menangle Saturday, click here.

by Michael Dumesny, for HRNSW