Trainer Gary Clarke has endured an emotional rollercoaster since the start of the Darwin Cup Carnival.

But only after second-placed Buck 'N' Spin (Richie Oakford) was awarded the ROANT Life Members Handicap (1300m) when Michael Evans - who finished third on O'Toole - lodged a successful protest against the winner Donut (Simone Montgomerie).

Clarke managed another double last Saturday, on day one of the Carnival when two-year-old gelding Birchley (Michael McDuff) and six-year-old gelding Bankers Lamp (Richie Oakford) got the cash.

Unfortunately, Bankers Lamp bled after his win and will now miss the rest of the Carnival after incurring an automatic three-month ban.

Six-year-old gelding Costylev, who was Clarke's other winner on June 25, and three-year-old colt Buck 'N' Spin have been nominated for Saturday.

Costylev is certain to start in the Irvine Handicap (1000m) where he will confront talented sprinters The Soldier (65kg), Lucid Reflection (63.5kg) and stablemate Hidden Surprise.

"Costylev has been issued with 54kg and with (jockey) Cara Angel to claim 3kg, he's got to be some chance," Clarke said.

"A Palmerston Sprint (1200m) start is unlikely because 1100m is his limit, so he may end up running in the Lightning (1000m) on Cup Day (August 1).

"I'm not sure what I'm going to do with Buck 'N' Spin.

"I may end up skipping Saturday and start him in a 1200m race on Ladies Day (Wednesday)."

Story courtesy of David White, NT News