Engine ready to roar regardless of race

De Little Engine has been named first emergency for Saturday's Group 1 Caulfield Cup as connections chase their first runner in the spring major.

The quality stayer is owned by Jeff Dimery of Uluru Stud, who raced Australian Guineas and AJC Derby winner Shamrocker. The dual Group 1 winner lined up in the Cox Plate and Melbourne Cup in her four-year-old year.

"It was an absolute thrill to be involved in those two races and it would be a dream come true to sneak into this week's race if we can," Dimery said.

"The horse never runs a bad race and he is sneaky outside chance if he lines up."

Trainer Danny O'Brien echoed Dimery's sentiment as he expects the gelding to run a a bold race if he gains a start in the Cup.

"His run in the Turnbull was excellent as his sectionals were comparable to Hartnell and Jameka, and he couldn't be racing any better," O'Brien said.

"Our plan all along has been to run in the Coongy this Saturday, which leads in nicely Lexus on Derby Day as the overall aim is to get the horse into the Melbourne Cup. However we wouldn't knock back a chance to run in the Caulfield Cup and he will acquit himself well in whichever race he runs in this week."

Pic by Racing Photos