Hot field in Sires’ Stake Final

The start is going to be crucial in the $200,000 Group One Woodlands Stud Sires’ Stakes Series Two Year Old Final at Addington tomorrow.

One of the ‘talk’ horses of the season Faith Not Fear (Captaintreacherous) has drawn the pole for Rolleston trainers Hayden and Amanda Cullen.

“I think it’s a great draw for him. We’ve only had him run off the gate once. He came off under his own steam and crossed them easy enough. He’s got a bit of ringcraft now and I think he’ll take a bit of crossing,” said Hayden.

The hugely talented colt has had four starts since August, winning three and finishing an unlucky third in the Harness Million. He’s since been back to the trials, winning his heat on Wednesday and running his last 800 in 55.4.

“It was a good trial and we were pleased with that. He hadn’t raced since the Harness Million. Fitness wise we’re really happy with him. He could be something special this guy.”

Denis and Mark Dunford who own the colt have owned three Sires’ Stakes winners – Have Faith In Me in 2014, It’s All About Faith in 2020 and Don’t Stop Dreaming in 2023.

Hayden has trained two winners of this race – Akuta in 2021 and Don’t Stop Dreaming with Mark Purdon in 2022.

Northern hope Lucky Luca (Bettor’s Delight) draws to the outside of Faith Not Fear at six.

The Tony Herlihy trained juvenile has also had four starts this preparation winning once at Alexandra Park in September. In his last start at Ashburton he was seen running home nicely for fourth.

“He stuck to his guns well after doing a fair bit of work in the running. He seems to have come through it really good. I fast worked him this morning (Thursday) and he seems nice and bright. He’s enjoying his time down south by the look of him. He’ll need a bit of luck from the draw,” Herlihy said.

As a driver Herlihy has driven four Sires’ Stakes winners – Chokin in 1991, Montana Vance 1992, Matai MacKenzie 2000 and Fergiemack in 2006. He also trained Fergiemack.

The Sires’ Stakes Final races at 3.54pm.

by Bruce Stewart, for Harnesslink