SA Trots - Artillery shooting for Cups King stardom

MAKING a strong bid for the title of 'Country Cups King' this season, in-form pacer Artillery will aim to complete his coronation this weekend.

Dominating the various provincial features, Artillery has won four Cups during his past seven starts, including the Gawler and Victor Harbor Cups at his last two outings.

The son of Art Major was also runner-up in the Strathalbyn and Ladbrokes Cups for trainer Paul Cavallaro.

Cavallaro provided the quinella in Strathalbyn's feature, with Artillery's older brother, Culture King, emerging triumphant.

With the crown all but Artillery's, Cavallaro hopes the gelding can ascend to the throne in Port Pirie on Saturday night.

"He is clearly the form horse in the field and the one to beat, but he's got to get out there and get the job done," Cavallaro said. "I couldn't have him in any better condition, so there are no excuses there."

To be driven by Cavallaro, Artillery has drawn five, but comes into four with the removal of the emergency.

Culture King has fared better in gate two, with the veteran to begin from the pole once the emergency is out of the equation.

"As good as Artillery is going, I wouldn't wipe off Culture King from the draw," Cavallaro said. "The old fella is racing very well and will appreciate the conditions from there.

"If he is on his best behaviour, Lord Zarias is the main danger."

Trained by Ryan Hryhorec, who is also set to partner the gelding, Lord Zarias has drawn barrier three.

Lord Zarias beat Artillery in the Ladbrokes Cup on March 10 and was runner-up in the Italian and Gawler Cups.