Confidence remains despite tough draw

A TOUGH draw has done little to dampen trainer Bill Kitt’s confidence ahead of tomorrow night’s Waratah Final.

Kitt will contest the Club Menangle feature with “airborne” pacer Ultimate Equus, which has drawn barrier 11 over 1609 metres.

To be driven by Jye Coney, Ultimate Equus slots into gate nine with the removal of the emergencies.

“It’s not an ideal draw, but he is pretty versatile,” Kitt said. “He’s as tough as old boots as well, so it doesn’t matter too much.

“I’d say he will have to come with one run, so hopefully down the big Menangle straight he can keep winding up and hit the line well.”

Successful in a series heat in Bathurst last week, Ultimate Equus’ victory followed a pair of wins in Penrith.

In a wide open field, TAB Fixed Odds have the son of Alta Christiano on the third line of betting at $6.

Winner of the Newcastle-based heat, Penurious is the $4 favourite from gate three, with Alabama Lioness splitting the pair at $5 from barrier seven.

Racing in superb form for astute horseman Scott Hewitt, Alabama Lioness has won three of her last four starts.

“My bloke is airborne and I couldn’t be happier with him,” Kitt said. “He’s doing everything right at the moment and I give him a good chance in this.

“Alabama Lioness is also flying and I’d say she is the one to beat.”