It seems that elementary!

ANOTHER Globe Derby Free-For-All, another pending win…it seems that elementary for Victorian owners Merv and Meg Butterworth.

Dominating the open class ranks in recent weeks, the couple have two runners in Saturday night’s Italian Cup, which is the first in a series of races restricted to South Australian-trained competitors.

Last December Harness Racing SA announced its plans for the SA Cup with the view of returning the feature to its former glory, while also attempting to keep the bulk of the prizemoney in the pockets of locals.

The Cup is now regarded as a Final for those which earn the highest points from contesting various country cups.

There are seven qualifying events in which to earn points.

As for the Butterworths, they will contest the weekend’s feature with classy pacer Jimmy Mack and new arrival, Im Full Of Excuses.

Jimmy Mack has been seemingly unbeatable since arriving in the state, winning his last eight starts for trainer Les Harding.

First-up since racing at Gloucester Park last July, Im Full Of Excuses will make his debut for Harding.

“Jimmy Mack certainly has thrived on the easier company since we transferred him from Western Australia,” Merv said. “Les has done a wonderful job with him.

“Im Full Of Excuses has also come over from WA and has been working up well for Les.”

To be driven by Matthew Harding, Im Full Of Excuses has drawn to lead from the pole, with Jimmy Mack predicted to get the run of the race from the inside of the second row with Dani Hill in the cart.

“The draw seems to favour Jimmy Mack,” Merv said. “If Im Full Of Excuses can lead Jimmy Mack will get the perfect run and have the sprint lane waiting for him.

“Jimmy Mack also has race fitness on his side, which could be the telling factor in the home straight.”

The Butterworths are also poised to unleash a third Cup contender, Motu Premier, which Merv rates the highest of their trio.

Expected to make his local debut in the Gawler Cup on March 13, Motu Premier has a record of 19 wins and 27 placings from 74 starts for earnings of $415,115.

“Motu Premier will go around in a few weeks time,” Merv said. “We’ll try to spread the three around.”