Jasper Tackles Straight Track Cup Sight Unseen

SPEEDSTER Phantom Jasper goes into Saturday morning's heats of the Richmond Straight Track Cup without a look at the track, but trainer Tyson Barton believes that is not the worry about the dog's chances.

The winner of 12 of his 23 career starts, the son of Barcia Bale and Clover Cottage comes into the heat off three straight wins up the straight track at Capalaba.

One of those is a flying 19.63 two runs back.

FIELDS AND FORM RICHMOND SATURDAY

“I took him to Capalaba sight unseen and he flew out, went straight, never deviated and won in 19.87,” said Tyson.

“He's got the six at Richmond and that should not worry him.

“I decided not to give him a trial there and have my reasons.

“Normally he likes to crash left in his races, but each time up Capalaba he has gone straight.

“Yes, I know Capalaba is a drag lure from in front of the boxes and Richmond is an arm on the rail.

“But, I'm trying to trick him into going straight on Saturday.”

Tyson says the biggest worry about Phantom Jasper is travelling from Casino to Richmond.

“He is not a good traveller which is his worst trait,” said Tyson.

“That's why I'm heading down on Friday night so he will settle down. It will take about eight hours to get to Richmond.”

Phantom Jasper is already a winner at Grafton, Casino and Capalaba.

He was third to current Albion Park star Hello Mike at his only 520m start in a Novice at his third race start.

“He is going really well at the moment, and an incredible chaser,” said Tyson.

“He doesn't quite get 520 metres at the moment but I'm confident he will get it. He might end up being a 30.10 dog around Albion (Park).”

Phantom Jasper is a half brother to Phantom Bonnie the G3 Casino Cup winner and former Casino track record holder, and Jimary Star a finalist in the G2 Lismore Cup.