Wrangler Duke took his career wins into the double digits thanks to a victory at Dubbo.

The upcoming Lexus Of Dubbo Pace (2260 metres) will be a step up in class for the eight-year-old stallion but with a gate three start it can put itself right in the mix.

“He had a reasonably good draw at Dubbo and was probably down a little in grade from what he’d been racing against in previous weeks,” Rue said.

“He’ll definitely be in this as long as the speed is on. The hardest to beat in this one will definitely be Karloo Threeothree out in the seven who’s won his last couple of starts.

“He’s done a great job for us. We’ve taken him to Menangle a few times but hasn’t quite been able to crack it there with a few bad draws but hopefully he’ll be building towards that again.”

Rue, who has been in the driver’s seat for 74 of Wrangler Duke’s 76 career starts, took over the training reins from Tony Hagney earlier this year with mixed results.

He won two of his first three starts in the stable before struggling in a series of Menangle starts.

His recent success ended a winless drought going back to April.

Rue has a second drive on the night, steering Hangey’s Carinya Gold in the opening race.

The eight race meeting at Bathurst Paceway starts from 5.15pm.

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