Harness racing driver David Morris is looking forward to welcoming back My General Lee on Australia Day in the group three Goulburn Cup. The talented five-year-old pacer has not raced since finishing second in the Breeders Crown last season behind Hectorjayjay but has had two recent trials to prepare him for Tuesday's feature event.
My General Lee will start from the inside of the second row in the $31,800 event and will need to perform strongly to defeat the quality opposition headed by Inter Dominion finalist Blazin N Cullen, Teo Enteo and Pachacuti.
"It's not an ideal draw in a race where there is so much depth, My General Lee does have very good speed when saved up for one sprint therefore I think he is entitled to be considered a winning chance," Morris said.
"I've spoken with connections about the barrier draw and they are very keen for me to come off the fence as early as possible so that will be the plan as soon as the starter lets the field go."
Morris confirmed there was a great deal of improvement between the gelding's first and second trials and expects him to be even fitter on Tuesday afternoon.
"His first trial was against Beautide and although the opposition was very strong I thought he was a bit disappointing because he struggled to the line but on reflection he obviously needed the run.
"We sat behind Bettor Bet Black in his second trial and followed him before coming to the outside in the straight, he only beat us home by about a neck and the times were a lot better."
My General Lee was expected to have another trial at Menangle on Friday afternoon as a final hit-out before Tuesday's race however the trials were called off and the son of Art Major hoppled on Saturday morning instead.
"His work was really strong on Saturday morning, it was exactly what you want to see a few days out before a race and he felt spot on.
"I haven't really discussed with Daniel Neagoe and the owners what the long term goal with him is but he is assessed M4 so wherever he goes he has to take on the better horses."
Morris drove at Menangle on Friday afternoon and Saturday night and will drive to Junee to compete in an invitational drivers' series on Sunday.
"It was nice to be invited to take part in the series, Ash Hart played a big part in me being asked to take part in it.
"I won't get home until late on Sunday night and I've got to be up early to work horses on Monday morning but I'm sure it will be worth the trip."
Greg Hayes
