RESPONSIBLE for a massive upset a fortnight ago, Bitofdutchcourage has been afforded a lot more respect this week as he attempts to complete consecutive victories.
Having his second start for owner Ella Brechin and trainer Luke O'Neill, Bitofdutchcourage was triumphant as a $151 rank outsider.
Driven to perfection by Bernadette Page, Bitofdutchcourage overcame a second row draw to score in 1:56.7 over a mile in Port Pirie.
Winner in Northam before his move to South Australia, Bitofdutchcourage finished at the tail of the field during his debut for Brechin, who partnered the gelding.
"He is an 18th birthday present from a few family members and I absolutely love him," Brechin said. "Nothing went right in his first start and then he surprised us at his second run.
"He has always won by leading and hasn't come off the speed before, so it was a bit of a shock when he did last week.
"I was shocked he paid so much and sadly I didn't have a bet on him!"
Poised to return to the provincial circuit tomorrow night, the son of American Ideal is listed as the $3.30 second elect from the pole.
With Page on holidays, Samantha Pascoe has been booked to partner the five-year-old.
Coco Mia heads the market at $1.20 for astute horseman Tyson Linke from barrier seven.
"He has a favourable draw, so I'm hoping he can win again," Brechin said. "Unfortunately given the rules here I can't drive him so Sam will drive him instead.
"I just hope I get to drive him for a win sometime in the future."
