National Trotguide

She could be the smokie at big odds

THERE will be no surprise in watching Jarrod Alchin make his way into the winners’ circle following tomorrow night’s Australian Pacing Gold Final at Club Menangle.

What may cause a shock is the reason Alchin is in the number one stall.

Alchin has two runners engaged in the $100,000 feature, with Peachesncream a dominant $1.70 TAB Fixed Odds favourite despite drawing barrier eight.

Impressing during her trials – with three wins and a second from four hit outs – Peachesncream lived up to the hype by capturing an APG Prelude upon debut on June 2.

With Cam Hart holding the reins, the daughter of Ultimate Machete covered the mile in 1:55.8.

Contesting the same qualifier, Paiges Boulder finished 23 metres behind her stablemate with Bailey McDonough in the cart.

To be driven by McDonough again, Paiges Boulder is a $31 outsider from gate six.

Naturally Alchin is confident Peachesncream can maintain her undefeated status, but the astute horseman also believes Paiges Boulder could be ‘the smokie’.

“Peachesncream is a very nice filly, which I’m certain will get better with racing,” Alchin said. “In fact, she will have a short break after the APG Final in preparation for a busy back end of the season and I believe that time off will do her the world of good.

“Given the way she has progressed, I reckon she will come back even better after a short break.

“Peachesncream is the one to beat in the Final, but don’t be surprised if Paiges Boulder causes an upset.

“Paiges Boulder only went fair in the prelude, but her work since has really come one.

“In fact, she has been working better than Peachesncream, so she could be the smokie at big odds.”