From the moment Rains brought Set The Scene across to join his stable he’s had his eyes firmly fixed on winning the Carnarvon Cup and after his six-length romp in the Peter Evans Memorial Handicap (1700m), his goal appears within reach.
Getting to Carnarvon’s pinnacle race has been a year in the making for Rains, with Set The Scene building a real affinity with the track, finishing first three in 12 of 13 starts in an extended campaign that first kicked off last May.
Rains, who can lock away his biggest win since becoming a trainer seven years ago, said winning the Carnarvon Cup with Set The Scene has always been on his agenda.
“Absolutely, it’s always been on his radar,” Rains said to Racing WA.
“His whole preparation has been targeted at it.
“Essentially those horses he raced against on Sunday will make up the majority of the Carnarvon Cup field.
“All things being even, if we get a good barrier and good luck in running, we’re a live chance and you would think he will go around as favourite.
“He’s peaking at the right time and hopefully all the plans come off in a fortnight’s time.”
Set The Scene has recorded seven wins from 34 starts and although he’s failed in three attempts beyond 1700m, it hasn’t dampened Rains’ conviction.
He says the manner in which Set The Scene dominated the Peter Evans Memorial Handicap and attacked the line, leaves him optimistic he has the ability to go a longer distance in the Carnarvon Cup.
“Obviously there’s a little question mark, but being by Reset, they usually get the ground,” Rains said.
“I think the thing that’s really in our favour is how he loves the track, I think he’s only missed a placing once.
“It’s the age old saying, horses for courses and I hope it rings true because this fella really loves it there.
“Maybe the 2000m on the dirt is 1800m on the grass, I’m not too sure, I’m just happy he likes the track.”
Adding to Rains’ confidence is the booking of top jockey Natasha Faithfull to partner Set The Scene in the Carnarvon Cup.
Rains said he made a beeline straight for Faithfull after she steered him home in the Peter Evans Memorial Handicap.
“She’s in high demand and such a vital cog,” Rains said.
“As soon as she crossed the line and came back, I said tell me your available in two weeks.”