REIGNING champ Blue Coman faces an arduous task as he begins his title defence on Saturday night.
Successful in last season's South Australia Trotters' Cup, Blue Coman is poised to contest the second heat of the feature at Globe Derby.
Prepared by expat 'Croweater' Greg Norman, the son of Monkey Bones will begin from a 30-metre back mark in the 2645-metre qualifier.
Although he continues to perform consistently, Blue Coman hasn't won since his interstate success last October.
"It's been a while since he won a race, but he's run numerous placings and been consistent," Norman said. "His form doesn't read as well as he is racing and it should only be a matter of time before he gets another win on the board.
"With any luck, that win will come this weekend or the following week in the Cup."
Based in Victoria, Norman spent his formative years in South Australia, where he followed a family tradition into the industry and always embraces the opportunity to return 'home'.
It's that connection which has Norman hoping for a happy homecoming during the next fortnight, with Blue Coman to be joined by a trio of stablemates.
Delightful Tammy is engaged in a Pacing Cup heat, with Cee Cee Lou and Wild Bull chasing berths in the SA Derby.
"It is always great to head home and have a bit of success at Globe Derby, which hopefully we can have during the next couple of weeks," Norman said. "All four are going to be competitive and now it will come down to how the races are run on the night."