TOMMY Berry was quick to draw the comparison to previous Country Championships winner Clearly Innocent after earning his place in the final on Art Cadeau.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Shoalhaven Heads-based trainer Terry Robinson had to wait two days and a trip to Goulburn to ensure Art Cadeau delivered on his promise, after the Sunday Nowra meeting was transferred due to rain.
Berry shifted into the clear in the straight and admitted he was "out of carrots" at the 150 metre mark after a three-week break off his first run this preparation.
But they fought on gamely to hold off the fast-finishing Leg Work, trained by Goulburn's Danny Williams, who has now also secured a spot in the final.
"Clearly Innocent is a bit similar in a way, where he was clearly above the rest," Berry told Sky Racing, having won the 2016 Country Championships final on him.
"This guy is giving me that same sort of feeling.
"I know it's very early on, there's a lot more to go to get to the grand final, but they'd want to be good to beat him."
Robinson confirmed Art Cadeau would have a week in the paddock before being set for the final on April 3 at Randwick.
"It's a big ask for these horses to get them ready for the heat and then the final," he said.
"It's not for another six or seven weeks, but he's the right sort of horse that whatever happens, he's so versatile.
"I'm looking forward to it."
Jockey Sam Clipperton had to go back from the outside barrier on Leg Work, but produced an eye-catching finish to be within a half-length of victory, with Rothenburg third.
Tuesday proved to be a successful day at the track for Robinson's Regal Lodge stable, with his Danzadel taking out the 1400 metre class two plate with Berry on board.
Robinson also secured one second (Roseirro - 1600 metre benchmark 65 handicap) and two third place finishers (Zardoro - 1200 metre benchmark 58 handicap and Miss Keira - 1600 metre maiden plate) with jockey Berry riding the latter.
We depend on subscription revenue to support our journalism. If you are able, please subscribe here. If you are already a subscriber, thank you for your support.