No Byron but Alchin still has Ultimate chances

There are no New South Wales Breeders Challenge heats at Penrith on Thursday night but astute trainer Jarrod Alchin has two of his talented two-year-olds contesting the meeting.
My Ultimate Cobber and My Ultimate Skeeta both failed to progress to Saturday night’s NSWBC semi-finals but at the same time were not disgraced among an incredibly-talented crop of youngsters who will vie for a spot in the $150,000 Group 1 Final on October 30.
Alchin did qualify his current stable star My Ultimate Byron, who has drawn the coveted barrier one in the second semi-final this Saturday night at Menangle.
And it is hard to see any of his opponents getting over the top of the unbeaten son of Somebeachsomewhere.
“Byron” has won six races to date and many good judges labelled him a superstar from when he first stepped out at the trials back in March.
His biggest win to date has been the Australian Pacing Gold Bullion on April 24 when he scored by 13 metres and clocked a fast 1:52.4.
My Ultimate Cobber is quoted as an even-money favourite to take out the opening race at Penrith on Thursday night and will appreciate the easier assignment than when he finished fourth behind his stablemate in the Menangle NSWBC heat on October 5.
He is a previous winner at the track, where he rated 1:57.5 and has been well served tonight, coming up with barrier two.
Cameron Hart will drive him and My Ultimate Skeeta (Race 5) which further bolsters the pair’s chances.
“Skeeta” has drawn awkwardly in barrier nine, but he too has won at Penrith, rating 1:56.9, and despite racing the older horses over the 2125 metre trip, should prove hard to beat.
Up-and-coming western Sydney reinsman, Lleyton Green has seven drives on Thursday night for the Dean and Kerry McDowell stable and believes he can land at least two winners on the program.
“I do think my best drive is in the last race,” said Green.
“I am driving Black Onyx, who has contested some tough races at Menangle since resuming from a spell.
“Last start he raced in a heat of the Breeders Challenge and from barrier two should be able to lead and win.
“Volando Denario is one of five the McDowells have in Race 4.
“She should get a good run in transit and her form has been impeccable.”

To view fields for Penrith on Thursday night click here.

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

By Michael Dumesny for HRNSW