Lane’s hopes for Resortman as lucrative slot race looms

Boyanup trainer Michael Lane will push Resortman’s case for a slot in the $4 million The Quokka (1200m) at Ascot when the gun sprinter makes his return in a Lark Hill trial on Monday.

The six-year-old emerged as an ideal candidate for WA’s first ever slot race after a brilliant campaign last year highlighted by victories in the Bolton Sprint (1200m), Idyllic Prince Stakes (1300m), Farnley Stakes (1400m) and Eurythmic Stakes (1400m).

He also ran a brave fourth under the 57kg topweight in the Group 1 Railway Stakes (1600m) and was an unlucky 13th in the $1.5m Gold Rush (1400m) during the Ascot carnival.

Lane said Resortman had returned from a spell in top order and he will race first-up in the Group 3 Roma Cup (1100m) on April 1.

“He’s going huge,” Lane said.

“Obviously we’re chasing a slot if we can get one.

“He should trial well and then we’ll see if something comes up after that.

“His weight-for-age record is outstanding and the 1200 really suits him.

“He’s matured into a really good horse.”

Hampered by injuries earlier in his career, Resortman has won 10 of his 27 starts and $649,900 in prize money.