SA Trots - Hesashark throwing down a challenge in todays Gawler Cup

CONNECTIONS of handy pacer Hesashark hope to "go a couple of spots better" this weekend.

Third behind Clarenden Envoy and Culture King in last season's Gawler Gold Cup, Hesashark is again among the main fancies ahead of today's edition.

Along with solid form, the Dale Afford-trained gelding has drawn to make his presence felt from the pole.

A solid standing start beginner, Hesashark is destined to settle in a prominent position during the 2550-metre feature.

"He sat behind the leader last year and couldn't get out as there is not sprint lane at Gawler," Afford said. "From the draw, he may very well end up in the same position.

"If I happened to lead early with him, I may even decide to hold the front.

"We'll just have to see how they all begin on the day."

Among the placegetters in last week's Ladbrokes Cup at Globe Derby, Hesashark was a 1:55.4 winner in Port Pirie over a mile three starts ago.

"He has always been consistent, but I have been particularly happy with his four starts this season," Afford said. "He's definitely in the right form going into this.

"Hopefully this year we can go a couple of spots better than last time and come away with the win."

Afford will also be represented by Alakazam, which has drawn behind his stablemate in eight.

Despite scoring in Port Pirie earlier this week, Alakazam is among the outsiders at $51.

"I was very pleased with him on Tuesday night and his overall form reads well," Afford said. "He's going to need luck, but I wouldn't say he can't win."