Vince Spiteri admits he was hoping for an outside draw with What Will Do in tonight’s Southern Engine Recon Sprint Series Final (400m) at Bulli but still thinks his chaser can triumph.
The consistent sprinter goes from box six in the final aiming for a 12th win in 39 starts but faces a tough field here in the night's eighth race.
What Will Do finished second behind Big Bore, who jumps from box eight tonight, in last week’s heats.
Trainer Spiteri is confident of turning the tables here and said his chaser can still win despite not appearing to draw favourably.
“He is looking sharp,” said Spiteri. “I cannot fault him at all.
“I would rather he had the eight as he loves the outside, but if they leave him alone he has a good chance.
“If he hits the front (and) gets a clear run, he will be hard to beat.”
A recent below-par effort at Wentworth Park aside, What Will Do has a decent record from box six.
He is the fastest of the finalists over this distance at Bulli and enjoys his visits to the south coast track.
The chaser has placed or better on 11 visits to Bulli, despite a tendency to drift outside in the closing stages.
“I worry a little bit about him at Bulli,” Spiteri said. “He always seems to run wide on the corner.
“He is better over the 400m at Richmond.
“I would love to see him win. He is a really pleasant dog who will lick you to death if he could.”
Big Bore and Neva’s Tree, who has drawn the five after a superb heat run last week, look strong contenders in what appears an even final.
Mark Wilcox’s Highly Respected returns from more than a month out and looks a decent chance in race six.
The chaser has 22 wiins from 48 starts, including multiple victories at Bulli.
Ritza Rossi (race five) and Tautology in race seven can complete the quaddie.
Spiteri, who works out of Appin in the NSW Southern Highlands, has been involved with the sport for about 40 years.
He is assisted by wife Mary and still enjoys the racing experience.
“We like going to the races – especially at night - and talking to other people there,” the 69-year-old said.
“I’m not much of a punter - $50 is a big bet for me.
“We breed and rear them as well so it’s lovely to see them grow up and race.
“I still get a buzz from it all.”
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