No Barty but Arty ready to continue party

TO THE dismay of many Aussies the Barty Party is over!

In what is being touted in some circles as controversial circumstances, Ash Barty has been eliminated from the Australian Open ending the hope of the first homeland victory in more than four decades.

But life is not all doom and gloom, with the Arty Party still in full swing for a homeland triumph of sorts.

Thrilled with his stable star since making a mad dash into New South Wales last week, trainer David Moran is positive Lochinvar Art can keep his party rolling in Friday night’s Newcastle Mile.

The Arty Party is a six-start winning streak, which began in Bendigo on December 10.

Those half dozen wins include three Group Ones and a Group Two!

Although domiciled in Victoria, Lochinvar Art is an adopted local given he is owned by Kevin Gordon, who is determined to win his home track’s premier event.

“After making a charge for the border last week in the case of being locked out he has taken it all in his stride,” Moran said.

“He’s settled in brilliantly and hasn’t missed a beat.”

As for his pending assignment, Lochinvar Art will begin from the outside of the front row.

Although disappointed with the draw Moran isn’t “all that fussed”.

“It’s not the draw I would pick, but I’m not all that fussed with it,” Moran said.

“He feels a treat, as good as ever, and is certainly capable of winning from there.

“Hopefully he comes out on top and we can go straight into the Miracle Mile at Club Menangle in a couple of weeks.”

HOOFNOTE: TAB Fixed Odds offered $6.50 for a wagering special the BARTY ARTY PARTY for the pair to win the Australian Open and Newcastle Mile.