Melbourne Storm chairman Matt Tripp has revealed the club’s runner in the $1.65 million Phoenix in December

The Melbourne Storm has revealed the club’s runner for its first foray at The Phoenix in December.

Matt Tripp has announced Rinsed The Lot as the Melbourne Storm’s runner in The Phoenix

MELBOURNE Storm chairman Matt Tripp has wasted no time in making his presence felt ahead of December’s The Phoenix, declaring that rising NSW star Rinsed The Lot will race in the club’s slot in the $1.65 million showpiece.

The announcement comes following the news on Tuesday night that the powerhouse rugby league franchise had secured a slot in the $1 million to-the-winner event to be staged at The Meadows on Saturday, December 21.

“We’ve hitched our wagon to Rinsed The Lot nice and early,” Tripp said on Wednesday.

“I’ve known (owner) Brad (Canty) for a long time and when the opportunity arose to get behind the boys we were more than happy to support.

“But as well as that at the Melbourne Storm we’ve displayed a strong desire to diversify our revenue channels and extend the exposure of our brand outside of footy.

“The Phoenix is a brilliant initiative that’s gaining in momentum each year and I really see the partnership as a win-win.

“I started my career in wagering as a bookie at the dogs so I’ve always had a soft spot for the industry. I’m really looking forward to what the next few months brings as we edge closer to the race.”

Rinsed The Lot winning the Group 1 Vic Peters Classic

Boasting seven wins and two seconds from nine career starts, the Michelle Sultana-trained Rinsed The Lot is one of the most exciting young sprinters in training.

Also in the ownership is premier jockey Brenton Avdulla, who is currently enjoying success in Hong Kong, and Steve Fletcher, one of Australia’s highest profile punters.

Back in July, Rinsed The Lot, a son of the great Barcia Bale, landed the Group 1 Vic Peters Classic at Wentworth Park in an electrifying 29.44.

The regally-bred speedster next races at Wentworth Park on Saturday night as he edges closer to the semi-finals of the Million Dollar Chase next month.

Rinsed The Lot is currently $9 in betting for the $1 million-to-the-winner The Phoenix behind $4.60 favourite Explicit.

The early decision by Tripp to go with Rinsed The Lot could ease some pressure with the Melbourne Storm’s champion fullback Ryan Papenhuyzen in the ownership of fellow star NSW greyhound Nangar Larry.

Nangar Larry last week won the Goulburn qualifying final of the Million Dollar Chase, setting the prolific winning chaser on a potential collision course with Rinsed The Lot in the semi-finals of the series on October 12.

Originally published as Melbourne Storm chairman Matt Tripp has revealed the club’s runner in the $1.65 million Phoenix in December