Exciting youngster ready for racing return

THRIVING during his time off, exciting youngster Pastor Dunbar will begin his quest for more feature glory this weekend.

Creating a huge buzz during his previous campaign, Pastor Dunbar won four of five starts, including the New South Wales Trotters’ Derby at Club Menangle.

Preferring to give the three-year-old a spell instead of embarking on a Queensland campaign, trainer Damian Wilson sent Pastor Dunbar to a paddock following his win in Melton on May 23.

“As tempting as Queensland was, he just wasn’t ready,” Wilson said. “He’s only had half a dozen starts and was pretty light on, so I didn’t think it was in his best interest.

“He has done well during his time off and has put on the condition I was hoping he would.”

Poised to return to Melton on Saturday night, Pastor Dunbar is being readied for Victoria’s Blue Riband on November 1.

During the interim, the son of Pastor Stephen will tackle The Holmfield in a fortnight and Vicbred Super Series next month.

As for his pending assignment, the colt faces a tough first-up task against a solid field of in-form rivals.

To be driven by Wilson, Pastor Dunbar has drawn barrier five over 2240 metres.

“He has come up nicely and is ready to go,” Wilson said. “I gave him a hit out in Charlton last week and was very happy with his work.

“He’s tightened up since, but will still benefit from Saturday night’s run.

“Every horse in the race has solid form and a win in their last handful of starts, so it won’t be a simple walk in the park.”