Bookmaker Sportsbet installed the Scone-trained galloper as the $4.00 clear top pick for Friday’s $40,000 Akubra Cup (1600m).

On the second line of betting at $7.00 is the Pat Farrell-trained Fort Sumter and Bayview Emperor from the Jeremy Sylvester stable.

Half of the 12-strong field boast single figure quotes.

Pippi’s Pride ($7.50) has been kept safe, while Adaboy Ross and The Quartermaster share an $8.00 price.

Adaboy Ross is the lone metropolitan prepared horse in this year’s field, trained by Richard Litt at Warwick Farm.

Rachael Murray has been booked to ride Adaboy Ross, who drew the inside gate for his first appearance since running fifth in the Canberra Cup prelude.

In other riding news, Peter Graham will continue his association with Don’t Nicme, one of two hopes for Port Macquarie trainer Tas Morton.

Just like the Cup, trainers Northam and Farrell have the two shortest-priced chances in the Quirindi RSL Lightning (1100m).

Sargent Doakes was last rated a $4.50 favourite in from $5.00, with Alart the $4.80 second-elect despite his big weight.

Alart, who has strong Sydney form to his name, needs to carry 63kg from barrier 11 in what is a hot renewal of the Lightning.

Run Cannon Run and Infinite Bliss were the scratchings released on Thursday, opening the door for the top two emergencies Hour Of Peril and Prettylittlefellow to gain a start.