Trainer chasing maiden success

LATE bloomer Kian Kirk hopes to break his maiden in one of the best possible ways this weekend.

Obtaining his training licence this season, the 28-year-old has Patiro engaged in tomorrow night’s Melton meeting.

Victory will give Kirk his first training win and first metropolitan win at the same time.

“My old man (Jamie) is a trainer, so I finally figured I would get a couple to train and see how it goes,” Kirk said. “I’ve been helping Dad around the stable for the past few years and figured it was time to give it a crack myself.

“I haven’t had much luck so far, but hopefully that may change tomorrow night.”

To be driven by Taylor Youl, Patiro has drawn barrier 10 over 2240 metres.

Despite his difficult starting position, the son of Rock N Roll Heaven has been listed as a $3.20 favourite.

Unplaced during his five starts for Kirk, Patiro has been absent from the winners’ circle since scoring in Addington last February.

“I think this race is down in class from his last run, but I’m not super confident at the same time,” Kirk said. “The draw makes it tough and he’s still got to step up.

“I tried using him early in his races, but it didn’t quite suit him, whereas in his last start he went well with a sit, so we will try for one last run again.

“His work has been terrific and I couldn’t be happier with him, now it comes down to whether he gets a good run.”