Young Perth-based trainer Luke Fernie dreams of winning his hometown’s feature sprint race: the Hannans Handicap (1400m) in Kalgoorlie.
In just his second season of training, it’s a race he has yet to win, but one that is steeped in rich family history.
Fernie hopes to follow in the footsteps of his grandfather, John and father, Peter, who have graced the Hannans honour roll on three occasions.
John prepared Cambana Lad to win in 1972 before Peter chimed in with two victories of his own: Black George (2011) and Mr Vadim (2013).
Luke Fernie’s bid for the 2020 edition of the Hannans will likely rest with Pym’s Royale, who enhanced his claims last weekend.
The Husson gelding charged home to run a slashing second behind runaway leader Saracino in the Belmont Newmarket (1200m), beaten a short-neck.
Pym’s Royale ran sixth in last year’s Hannans when under the care of Peter Fernie, but Luke says spacing his runs this year is the key to his winning chances.
“He has pulled up super from the Belmont Newmarket,” Fernie told The Races WA.
“The key to him now is spacing his runs.
“He will go a month into the Farnley Stakes (1400m) and then it’s about three weeks into the Hannans.
“His run in last year’s Hannans wasn’t too bad, he ran the third fastest final 600m.
“That was two weeks after carrying 62kg to win the Kambalda Cup (1400m).
“It will be terrific to win the race, but dad is also going to have a few as well.
“Little Fish, Moschard and maybe Regal Counsel will most likely go around.
“It’s a dream to win it and if I do you can bet the celebrations will be strong.
“But as long as one of us can take it out, me or dad, I’ll be happy.”
Meanwhile Fernie hopes his decision to scratch Champagne Diva out of Saturday and an encounter against boom filly, Clairvoyance, pays dividends at Belmont today.
A last-start winner, Champagne Diva tackles the Prive’ Fashion Platform Handicap (1400m).
“She is going well and will lead again,” Fernie said.
“It’s an even race and she has to be among the chances.”
Champagne Diva has drawn barrier eight. Chloe Azzopardi takes the ride.
Julio Santarelli