Racing: Wet track could affect Derby betting

A wet track could count against Lion Tamer in the Victoria Derby. Photo / Christine Cornege.

There was little change to the market for the Victoria Derby after the barrier draw but with the prospect of rain tomorrow and raceday there could be a dramatic shift.

Trainer Guy Walter is one keeping a close eye on the forecast with third favourite Digital Fortress a proven wet tracker, something he hopes will give him an advantage.

"He's shown he can handle the wet in Sydney and he went well in it last time at Caulfield," Walter said.

"He has come through this preparation very well but like all the others he is unknown at the distance [2500m] but he gives the impression he will run it.

"There is a little doubt about class but he is a worthy candidate and I'm sure he has the stamina which may be what he needs if it's wet on Saturday."

Digital Fortress won over 1600m on a heavy Warwick Farm track on October 4 before running a close third to Retrieve and another Derby aspirant Almindoro in the Norman Robinson Stakes (2000m) on October 16, also on heavy going.

Blake Shinn will ride Digital Fortress who will jump from gate 12 if the emergencies drawn inside him don't get a run.

Punters have opted for the AAMI Vase form with winner Rekindled Interest shading Retrieve for favouritism with TAB Sportsbet.

But Retrieve may have a little luck on his side.

Members of the Kangaroos rugby league team held caps with numbers underneath and connections of the Derby horses were asked to choose a player.

Darley racing manager Trevor Lobb was under instruction from trainer Peter Snowden, a Dragons supporter, to try to pick one of the St George Illawarra players.

When Retrieve's number came out, Dean Young was still available and, more importantly, was holding barrier two.

Stablemate Yulalona received gate 17 from Cronulla Sharks captain Paul Gallen which Lobb said was no problem.

"Yulalona is a horse who goes forward and that's what he has to do from out there," Lobb said.

"The draw for Retrieve is ideal and he will handle any rain."

Rekindled Interest (barrier eight) has been unplaced in two attempts on wet ground, while Retrieve has two wins on heavy and two placings on slow.

The Bart Cummings pair of Kudakulari and Cosmonaut drew 10 and 20 respectively while AAMI Vase runner-up Lion Tamer came up with gate 18.

Although he has won a trial on heavy footing, the Cambridge galloper's best form has been on good tracks and he was well beaten in the Norman Robinson.

Rekindled Interest maintained his place at the top of betting yesterday at $3.50, with Retrieve at $3.70.

Digital Fortress was at $8.50 ahead of Almindoro ($10), Smokin' Joey ($12) and Lion Tamer ($14).

- AAP