Drawn to join pair of all-time greats

AN IDEAL draw has placed champion pacer King Of Swing in a strong position to join a pair of all-time greats this weekend.

Engaged in Saturday night’s A G Hunter Cup at Tabcorp Park Melton, King Of Swing is aiming to regain the title he captured in 2020.

Defending his throne last season, King Of Swing finished third behind Lochinvar Art and Alta Orlando after beginning from the second row

This time around the Belinda McCrthy-trained son of Rocknroll Hanover has drawn the pole – the same starting position as his Cup triumph.

Driven by Gary Hall junior on that occasion, King Of Swing will be partnered by McCarthy’s husband, Luke, in the Grand Circuit event.

PURE STEEL

Victory will see King Of Swing become just the sixth dual winner of the time-honoured feature since its inauguration in 1949 when won by Silver Peak.

Sheffield Globe was the ground breaker in 1961 and ’62, followed by Monara in 1973, and ’74, Pure Steel in ‘77 and ’78 and Blossom Lady in 1994 and ’95.

Away from consecutive wins, Minuteman and Pure Steel are the only pacers to regain the Cup after falling short of a successful defence.

Scoring in 1964, Minuteman etched his name on the honour roll a second time in 1966.

As mentioned, Pure Steel was too good in 1977 and ’78 before returning for a record third win in 1980.

“I couldn’t be happier with his draw,” McCarthy said. “It’s the same draw he had when he won the Cup, so hopefully history can repeat itself.

“He was first-up when he won at Menangle a few of nights ago and has come through the run in terrific order.

“He’s going to be spot on for the Cup and it will take a big run to beat him.”