SUPERSTAR jockey James McDonald attempted to secure the mount on Bennelong Dancer ahead of Saturday's Country Championship final.
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Trainer Donna Scott said McDonald's manager texted her earlier in the week to inform her McDonald was available to ride in the race if she was interested.
McDonald was in red-hot form last weekend at Rosehill with two group 1 victories aboard Verry Elleegant and Avilius.
The Kiwi ace finished with a treble after also partnering Mister Sea Wolf in the group 3 Doncaster Prelude.
Blaike McDougall has been aboard Bennelong Dancer for the majority of her 16 start career.
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"McDonald's manager texted me to say he was available if Blaike wasn't riding," Scott said.
"He suggested to replace B-Mac with J-Mac.
"But I didn't even think about it.
"It detracts from the concept in my opinion.
"It's called the Country Championships and it gives country trainers the opportunity to race for increased prizemoney.
"I'm of the opinion that country jockeys should get the opportunity as well and shouldn't be replaced by their city counterparts."
Scott said she was amused by the offer.
"I did get a laugh," she said.
"Someone said to me 'tell him to come and ride a maiden a Wagga for you and then you will think about it.'
"Not that Blaike needs the reassurance but I have got absolute faith in Blaike and he knows the horse like the back of his hand.
"He is as desperate as us to win the race."
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