Two years later, feature set to deliver enthralling clash

TWO years ago the feature was poised to be the scene of a highly-anticipated clash, which to the dismay of many, never happened.

With Ride High and Lochinvar Art at the height of the powers, the two were on collision course to meet in the Minuteman Free-For-All at Tabcorp Park Melton.

Connections of both stallions ultimately elected to bypass the race and as such Ride High and Lochinvar Art not only avoided each other, they still haven’t ‘traded blows’ as the former was retired to stud a month later.

Fast forward to Saturday night and Lochinvar Art will not only continue his comeback in the event named after the star of the 1960s, he will take part in an enthralling contest.

First-up for six months at the same venue a fortnight ago, Lochinvar Art will be challenged by the latest threat to his throne – Honolua Bay.

As was the case with Ride High, Honolua Bay is trained by record-breaking horsewoman Emma Stewart and heads into the 2240-metre encounter in sensational form.

Widely-regarded as the most exciting prospect in Victoria, Honolua Bay has won his last seven starts, including his two outings from a spell.

Adding to the intrigue is the duo have drawn the second row, with Lochinvar Art to begin from barrier eight and Honolua Bay to come from 10.

“This will be a very good test for him,” Stewart said. “Obviously there is Lochinvar Art in the field, but there is also plenty of form in the race.

“Supreme Dominator, Rock N Roll Doo and Torrid Saint, which was impressive last week…it won’t be easy.

“The back line also makes it tough, but we’re confident enough to think he can win.”