Racing: Hopes of victory modified

Geoff Small

Changeover was ready to beat Gotta Go Cullen at Addington tonight - until Tuesday.

That's when the draws came out for the $30,000 Rising Stars Championship and trainer Geoff Small's opinion of the race changed.

Small was so happy with Changeover's trials he was adamant tonight was the big colt's chance to down his arch-rival Gotta Go Cullen. Since he has drawn outside the hot favourite, Small has lowered his expectations.

"He is ready to go a big race and had things fallen our way in the draws I think we had a shot," said Small. "But now it looks like we may have to sit outside him to try to beat him and that won't be easy." I couldn't be happier with my horse so we are not giving up hope."

Changeover and Gotta Go Cullen head a strong northern contingent in the first feature and Small has winning hopes in the other two major races.

Winforu will be out to make up for three luckless efforts when he returns to his favoured mobile start in the Canterbury Classic.

The second-line draw blunts his gate speed, but he should get a good run through and is ready to step up.

"He is fit and racing well and I can see him being in front of a few of the good ones when they settle," said Small.

His other runner, Metekhi, faces the biggest test of his career in the $50,000 Superstars in his first race away and a rare standing start.

"He is good enough to get some of it if things go his way, and if he steps there is a chance that will happen."

While Small's trio and Gotta Go Cullen will spur northern interest, there will be plenty to excite harness fans even on the undercard.

In the intermediate grade, unbeaten Shea Stadium clashes with Marika and three talented sons of Christian Cullen - Classic Cullen, Mighty Cullen and Cullen's Reign - dominate the last leg of Pick6.

Several open-class trotters-in-waiting clash in race two while One Over Kenny only needs a good start in race nine.

"My only worry with her is drawing on the inside of the 10m mark, otherwise she is spot on," said trainer Phil Williamson.