Veteran quick to bounce back

IT DIDN’T take veteran pacer Assassinator long to return to the winners’ circle.

Favourite in the Port Pirie Cup a fortnight ago, Assassinator was a brave fifth after racing in the ‘death seat’ over 2530 metres.

Given a “couple of light days” to recover, the 11-year-old was back to his best with an effortless victory at Globe Derby on Monday.

Despite his ‘greybeard’ status, Assassinator is in sensational form with five wins and a second from his last eight starts.

Naturally pleased with Assassinator’s performance, trainer Christopher Nicol is considering an interstate trip with son of Somebeachsomewhere.

“He has barely set a hoof wrong all preparation,” Nicol said. “Things didn’t work out in Port Pirie, but I was still happy with his run.

“He was able to find the front at Globe Derby and that made a big difference.

“There is a suitable race for him in Mildura next week I may aim him at as he is in the right form and will be competitive.”

Driven by Ryan Hryhorec, Assassinator led throughout from barrier four to complete a five-metre win from Brantley.

Code Black was two-and-a-half metres away third in 1:56.2 over 1800 metres.

“I think Ryan surprised a few when he decided to go forward right at the start,” Nicol said. “Once he got to the lead he was never going to be run down.”