Trainer Nathan Turvey is confident Chal Patch can start his campaign on a winning note in tonight's SEFS – The Asset Finance Specialist Pace (2503m) at Gloucester Park.
Chal Patch had 11 starts for five wins in WA last season and progressed to Free-For-All company at the end of his campaign.
His most recent start was in November's $50,000 Navy Cup (2130m), where he finished a game fifth behind Magnificent Storm.
Kyle Symington retains the drive on the gelding.
Turvey said while it wouldn't be easy for Chal Patch to overcome the 20m handicap in the standing start event, he was confident he had the fitness base to show his class edge over his rivals.
"I've got him fitter than before when he's run first-up," Turvey told The Trots WA.
"He always runs really well first-up, so hopefully he goes well this time.
"There's nothing easy about having to start off 20 and he wouldn't want a lot to go wrong from there.
"He's adaptable and I think he can overcome the handicap."
Chal Patch is a commanding $1.45 favourite with TABtouch for his return tonight, ahead of consistent standing start performer Otis at $5.50.
Turvey said he hoped to get Chal Patch back to open company early this campaign and potentially aim at The Nullarbor (2536m) and Fremantle Cup (2936m).
"I thought he had enough ability to give the Pacing Cup a scare last year," he said.
"I think he's got the ability to head to those types of races.
"He hasn't been set for them, but we will let him work his way into the preparation and if he gets there he gets there.
"He looks good and he feels good."
Turvey also has a strong hand in the Retravision Online Pace (2130m) with Rocknroll Sass and stable newcomer Three Rumours to line up from barrier two and six respectively.
Turvey said Three Rumours, who finished second last Friday in her first run for the stable, was ready to win.
"You always hope they settle in and adapt to the new surroundings," he said.
"I'll talk to (Gary Hall) Junior, but I think we might put her up there in the race and drive her confidently.
"We both got confidence out of last week's run."
Tonight's Gloucester Park meeting gets underway at 5.22.
