Chasing sentimental win

CHAMPION horseman Steve Turnbull is hoping to break a drought from the winners’ circle of a very special race on Boxing Day.

Although the feature has been part of the Bathurst calendar since 1954, it was renamed in honour of Steve’s mother, Shirley, in 1988.

Since then a member of the famous clan has won the event on 12 occasions.

Steve won the inaugural edition with Cocky Brother, before Tony, Greg, Craig, Jason and Amanda etched their names onto the honour roll.

Steve registered the last family win when triumphant with Slick Bromac in 2009.

“It is a race I aim to have a runner in each year,” Turnbull said. “It’s not an easy race to win though as they come from everywhere for the good prizemoney.

“It’s been a while since we had a win it, so hopefully that will change this year, but we will need a lot of luck given the class of the field.”

Steve will be represented by Firestorm Red and Maximus Red, which he will drive from barrier four.

Mitch will partner Firestorm Red from gate eight.

Amanda is set to take the reins behind Shoobee Doo, which she also trains.

Nathan rounds out the Turnbull prospects as the driver of the Mat Rue-trained Misterfreeze.

“Amanda would have the best chance of all of us going into it,” Steve said. “Her horse is racing really well.

“Alto Orlando, which won it last year, is the one to beat again.”

A member of the powerful Craig Cross stable, Alta Orlando is the second favourite at $3.60 with TAB Fixed Odds from his back row draw.

Last start Club Menangle winner Whereyabinboppin heads the market at $1.90 from barrier six.