Veteran on target for first hat-trick

VETERAN pacer Colonel Joy is in a strong position to complete a hat-trick at Albion Park on Saturday night.

Winner of his last two starts at the venue, Colonel Joy will begin from barrier three in the opening event on the card.

Pleased with the draw, trainer Richard Hutchison is confident the well-bred gelding can register a hat-trick for the first time in his 97-start career.

Colonel Joy has recorded consecutive wins on two occasions – his first two starts and again as a four-year-old.

“I couldn’t be happier with the way he is going,” Hutchinson said. “He is in great form.

“He is working well at home, is happy within himself and is ready to go again.

“I’m confident he will be very hard to beat.”

For all his faith in the son of Somebeachsomewhere, Hutchinson is weary of Cardlesfromheaven.

A last start winner for astute mentor Ian Gurney, Cardlesfromheaven has drawn to lead from the pole.

“Cardlesfromheaven comes out well and will probably lead from the pole,” Hutchinson said. “I’m not sure we can cross him at the start.

“I’m happy to have him sit in the breeze as he has done that and run quick time before.

“We’ll just have to see how it pans out at the start.”