Primed for country cup hat-trick

COMEBACK pacer Demon Delight is in a strong position to complete a cup hat-trick.

Sidelined through injury after capturing the Melton Plate in March 2020, Demon Delight spent 20 months away from the track before an unplaced return in November 2021.

Slowly working his way back to his peak, the Emma Stewart-trained stallion is in terrific form as proven by his victories in the Charlton and Echuca Cups during his last two starts.

The son of Bettors Delight was also third in Ararat and Horsham’s flagship events before his wins.

Thrilled to have the six-year-old “making up for lost time” owner Pam Hockham is confident Demon Delight can add Sunday’s Warragul Cup to his collection.

“We couldn’t be happier with him,” Hockham said. “It is so wonderful to have him back and racing at his best like he was before he got injured.

“We bought him at the Australian Pacing Gold Sale and I remember him being the cheapest Bettors Delight on the day and I’m sure he has been the best performed, which shows you don’t have to spend big to get a good one, just pick the right one!

“His last two starts have been fantastic as he deserves to be back on the winners’ list after being off for long.

“Plus the Mighty Demons are unbeaten from four games this season, so the last month or so has been heavenly.”

Drawn the widest of six runners in the Group Three, Demon Delight is a $2.50 favourite with TAB Fixed Odds, with his stablemate, Always Fast, considered the main danger at $2.90.

To come from barrier five, Always Fast is first-up since his third in Bendigo on January 8.

“It would be nice if he drew closer to the pegs, but in such a small field the draw isn’t such a big worry,” Hockham said.

“No matter where he settles he won’t be far off them and should get his chance.

“With a bit of luck he can win his third cup in a row, which will also extend his lead in the cups championship.”