Yankee drawn to strike gold

PROMISING pacer Yankee Gold has drawn to maintain his perfect season in Ballarat tonight.

Winner of his three starts for the term, Yankee Gold will begin from barrier two, which gives the son of American Ideal a prime opportunity to lead throughout according to co-trainer Emmett Brosnan.

Emmett prepares the four-year-old with his father, Richard.

“This is the closest he has drawn to the pegs, so it is a chance to look for the lead,” Brosnan said. “He’s not incredibly quick out of the gate, but can show a bit of speed.

“I’ll be doing my best to make the most of the draw.”

Making his debut as a late three-year-old, Yankee Gold was limited to three starts before spending a year away from the races.

Returning with a win in Terang on June 18, the gelding has been impressive at his two subsequent outings.

“Early days he was just immature and a bit of time off has helped him,” Emmett said. “He’s the biggest horse I have ever trained at about 17 hands.

“He’s just a big bulky unit which needed time to grow into himself.”

Despite his faultless form and draw, Yankee Gold is on the second line of betting at $2.50 with TAB Fixed Odds, with My Bettor Lady heading the market at $1.80.

A member of the all-conquering Emma Stewart stable, My Bettor Lady is the widest drawn of the seven runners.

The daughter of Bettors Delight boasts six wins and a second from her last eight starts, including a victory in Bendigo a fortnight ago.

“Emma’s mare has been running some quick times and is the one to beat,” Emmett said.