Winning the Inter Dominion is the pinnacle for any harness racing trainer or driver, but for one horsewoman, capturing the Championship “would be beyond a dream come true”.
Although she has enjoyed her share of Group One success, Victorian trainer Lisa Lewis has long held a desire to secure the Inter Dominion above any other race.
Lewis’ ambition to hold the coveted trophy aloft stems from a sentimental connection to the time honoured series.
A leading trainer-driver during the sport’s halcyon days, Lewis’ grandfather Alf Simons etched his name onto the Inter Dominion’s honour roll when triumphant with Bold David at the Ascot Vale Showgrounds in 1970.
“I couldn’t put into words what it would mean to emulate my grandfather by winning the Inter Dominion,” Lewis said. “It would be beyond a dream come true.
“I’m very fortunate to have this opportunity over the next few weeks and I will be trying my best to make the most of it.”
Lewis’ opportunity is in the shape of former boom pacer Captain Ravishing.
Once touted as Australia’s most exciting pacer, Captain Ravishing hasn’t quite reached the dizzy heights previously predicted.
With Captain Ravishing poised to make his debut for her stable, Miles hopes the son of Captaintreacherous can reignite his career beginning with Saturday night’s opening Inter Dominion round of heats at Albion Park.
To be partnered by West Australian concession driver Kylah Madden, Captain Ravishing has drawn to settle prominently from barrier three in the second heat.
Madden drove the seven-year-old to win at Gloucester Park on April 24, with the victory followed by two unplaced performances – his latest a fourth in Narrogin on May 9.
Transferred to Lewis in late May, Captain Ravishing won a trial in Shepparton last Thursday.
“He’s settled in brilliantly and I’m very pleased with his progress,” Lewis said. “He trialled superbly and his work has improved since.
“He has a great draw in what I think is the easiest heat, which is great considering he is first-up.
“You can’t go into these races with just one plan, you’ve got to adapt as the race unfolds, so we’ll be trying to think of several scenarios with him.
“We will be in Queensland in time for breakfast tomorrow, then settle him in and hope for the best.”
