Adkins in chance to seal crown

ANDREW Adkins is hoping to bring The Gavel down on the Sydney apprentices’ title at Canterbury today.

The 19-year-old rates the Ron Quinton-trained galloper as his best chance, among five rides, to extend his seven-win lead over James Innes Jnr (22).

A lone win won’t quite seal it yet as two months of the season remain, though Innes starts a suspension after Saturday’s Randwick meeting.

Adkins has found extra incentive – in the deeds of his master – to claim the crown.

While it’s well documented Quinton has produced four champion apprentices, Adkins wasn’t aware it’s 50 years since Quinton took out the apprentices title in 1966-67.

Quinton went on to win seven senior titles including six in a row from 1979 to 1984.

“It’s something I always wanted to achieve, you’ve got to get the winners and the support to help you get there and I feel like I’m getting the best of the best at the moment,’’ Adkins said.

“If your own boss doesn’t do it, who else is going to? Ron’s a great supporter.’’

Adkins has been on board The Gavel in all three runs this preparation and is confident the gelding is ready to win the TAB Handicap (1900m).

The four-year-old, whose two career wins have been at 2000m and 2200m, caught the eye running sixth at Warwick Farm last week.

“He just got back a little bit and he hit the line absolutely enormously,’’ Adkins said.