Racing: Sculptor hoping for starring role

BRISBANE: Kiwi trainer Peter McKenzie is hoping Sculptor plays a starring role in the Ipswich Cup today.

McKenzie, a part-time actor who also runs Strathcarron Stud near Levin, made a late decision to run Sculptor in the cup (2150m) following the stallion's unplaced run in the Brisbane Cup (2400m) at Eagle Farm on Monday.

The 4-year-old is a son of His Royal Highness who McKenzie stands at his stud.

Sculptor lost his chance in the group two Brisbane Cup when he reared as the gates opened before finishing 14th to Newcastle stayer Newport.

"He lost about 15 lengths when he reared up at the start and the race turned out to be a non-event," McKenzie said.

"The original plan wasn't to run him at Ipswich. I wanted to run him next in the Tatt's Cup on Saturday week before the Caloundra Cup.

"But he's bounced back so well after the Brisbane Cup and he'll be suited if there's a soft track.

"If you forget his Brisbane Cup run he has to be a chance at Ipswich.

"He's third topweight and is only 2.5kg above the minimum which probably reflects the depth of the cup field."

Kiwi rider Leith Innes has been booked to replace Brisbane Cup rider Gavin McKeon for the Ipswich Cup.

McKenzie has been a regular visitor to Brisbane in recent years and won the Ipswich Cup with I Reign Supreme in 2000.

McKenzie combines his training career with acting. His last acting work was in the film King Kong and he also played the role of Elendil in Lord Of The Rings.

- AAP