A dejected Gary Portelli is pinning his hopes on the theory that wide barriers are not a major disadvantage at Eagle Farm after Rebel Dane drew gate 22 for the Stradbroke Handicap.
A capacity field of 18 plus five emergencies was declared for Saturday’s Group One race and unless fifth reserve Scream Machine gains a start, Rebel Dane will jump from the outside barrier.
Wednesday’s outcome was a crushing blow to Portelli who felt the four-year-old’s chances hinged on a good gate.
“We’ve been saying all week that we needed a good draw to be a winning chance,” Portelli said.
“The horse is one hundred per cent but obviously the barrier has thrown a real spanner in the works.”
Tommy Berry is returning from Hong Kong to ride Rebel Dane after regular jockey Glen Boss opted for Victorian Srikandi who also drew wide in 17.
Portelli is hoping Berry can produce a masterstroke similar to that of Nick Hall 12 months ago when he brought Linton from barrier 16 of 18 and scooted along the fence late to win.
He is also mindful of a popular theory that the 1400m start at Eagle Farm provides all runners with a fair chance regardless of their barrier draw.
“The one thing is that people say barriers have not been that important in Stradbrokes previously,” he said.
“I’m hoping that’s true.”
Rebel Dane has eased from from his pre-draw quote of $5.50 to $8.
Trainer Chris Waller had no qualms after Red Tracer drew gate 16.
“No problem. At least she won’t get caught on the fence,” Waller said.
Red Tracer has not raced for seven weeks but has been tuned up for the Stradbroke with two recent barrier trial wins.