Chasing consecutive country Cups

LAST start Cup winners Faith Full and Sir Nippa will chase further provincial glory this weekend.

Successful in the Horsham Trotters’ Cup four days ago, Faith Full will contest Gunbower’s edition on Sunday.

Beginning from the front line last time around, the daughter of Majestic Son has been moved to the 10-metre mark for her pending assignment.

Despite the handicap, trainer Jamie Egan remains confident Faith Full can register consecutive Cup wins.

“It’s a long distance race, so there is plenty of time to make up the extra trip,” Egan said. “She is not quick from the stand anyway and it is more important that she steps safely than it is to make up ground early.

“All going well, Herbie (James Herbertson, driver) will have her in a nice spot soon after the start and he’ll take it from there.”

Runner-up in Horsham, El Conqueror will be searching for revenge in the 2630-metre stand.

Beginning from the 10-metre line, El Conqueror was beaten by three metres, but meets Faith Full on equal terms this time.

The Brent Lilley-trained gelding captured the Swan Hill Trotters’ Cup during his previous outing, which doubled as his Australian debut.

“El Conqueror is the one to beat,” Egan said. “I consider this a stronger field than Horsham, so we’ll have our work cut out for us.”

Winner of the Stawell Pacing Cup a fortnight ago, Sir Nippa is the other looking for successive Cup victories.

Thriving since arriving at Gerard Jamieson’s stable, Sir Nippa boasts five wins and five placings from his last 10 starts.

To connection’s delight, the five-year-old has drawn to lead throughout from the pole just as he did in Stawell.

HOONOTE: Just to play it safe, we must mention Jamieson’s ‘better half’, Alida.

It was made clear in no uncertain terms “can you please mention Alida…she’s demanding it in the background” as Jamieson was being interviewed following his Stawell Pacing Cup triumph!