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The Terry Robinson-trained King’s Trust is remarkably lining up for his 16th shot at a Highway Handicap this Saturday.
He's had 15 throws at the Highway stumps for two wins and three placings, and Terry Robinson's King's Trust will again have another attempt at the $100,000 event at Randwick Kensington this Saturday.
The six-year-old has competed almost exclusively in the race restricted to country-based trainers amassing over $190,000 in earnings in the process, a testament to the success of the initiative.
Drawing wide in gate 15 this weekend, Robinson sees similarities to his last-start Highway victory a fortnight ago, when coming from barrier ten.
"He did a really good job last time, he was wide most of the way," Robinson said.
"I know he only just won, but I thought it was a pretty good effort as it was three weeks in between runs.
"Obviously he will need luck in running again as he'll be back in the field. I just hope there'll be genuine pace on and he can be very competitive."
The Hinchinbrook gelding will get the benefit of apprentice Tom Sherry's 1.5kg claim, who will riding with plenty of confidence following a Group 3 win on Expat in the Belle Of The Turf Stakes at Gosford on Wednesday.
"He's a good strong boy who rides at 54kg and gets 1.5kg off," Robinson said.
"He gets in really well at the weights and looks very well placed."
Robinson's other accepted runner is Spritely Emily, who being first emergency will need at least one scratching to gain a start. Whilst it is still early doors for the lightly-raced So You Think mare, Robinson sees it as a stepping stone for bigger things to come.
"Obviously she is still learning, but she's always shown us a bit of ability," Robinson said.
"She does work with these horses, but she's not seasoned like they are.
"But barrier one is a huge advantage and with no weight on her back she might be able to put herself into the race. If she gets a run I'll probably run her."
King's Trust is a $4.80 favourite with the TAB on Thursday while Spritely Emily is the rank outsider at $126.
Looking forward to defending next year's Country Championships final who he won with Art Cadeau this year, Robinson has one or two contenders that he sees being suitable for the $500,000 feature.
"So Say You is a very honest mare and I just think the 1400m will suit her fresh, I am looking forward to seeing what she does when she comes back," Robinson said.
"She did a good job winning three Highway's and she'll definitely get a run with her benchmark.
"Danzadel has certainly got some ability too and has her first run back next week. It all depends on whether she behaves herself, but she can certainly be one if she comes up."
The Country Championships heats commence at Coffs Harbour on February 12 culminating with the final at Royal Randwick on April 2.
