Opportunity to match sister’s remarkable feat

HE’S facing an uphill battle in his bid, but Petracca has the opportunity to match his sister’s remarkable feat.

In what will be a phenomenal breeding and training performance, Petracca is aiming to become a Group One winner at his second start.

Successful in a heat earlier this week, the colt is engaged in Friday night’s Bathurst Gold Crown for record-breaking Victorian horsewoman Emma Stewart.

Stewart also trains Petracca’s older sister, Treachery, which won a qualifier of The Allwood upon debut before capturing the Final at Globe Derby at her next outing.

The siblings are by Captaintreacherous from Group Two winner, Lovelist.

“Naturally I remember Treachery doing that a couple of years ago, but I hadn’t put the connection together,” Stewart said.

“It would ideal if he can emulate Treachery on Friday night.”

To Stewart’s dismay Petracca has drawn barrier 11 – the middle of the second row – but moves into nine once the emergencies are taken out of the equation.

Despite the colt’s draw he is a $2 favourite with TAB Fixed Odds.

Fellow heat winner Tardelli is considered the main danger at $4.40 from barrier four.

“He did it as easily as he pleased in his heat and has come through the run in perfection condition,” Stewart said.

“It’s another step up in the Final as you would expect, and he hasn’t drawn the best, but we’re still confident with him.

“As long as he can stay out of trouble he will be right in the finish.”