Withers, who won the Dunkeld Cup with Unrealistic in 2017 and 2019, saddles up the eight-year-old in front of no crowds in the $45,000 race over 1800 metres on Saturday.

"Let's just say it's going to be really different without about 10,000 spectators there," the former Warrnambool Football Club coach said.

"There will only be a handful of owners on-course. It's going to be a lot different then last year. I suppose it'll be a bit eerie.

"I think Unrealistic will find it difficult to win this year. He's got to carry 56kg. When Unrealistic won before he was down in the weights.

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"I know it's a 56kg minimum this year but he would be better if the minimum was less than 56kg.

"I would love to win another Dunkeld Cup but it's his toughest task this year but in saying that he loves running at Dunkeld and gives 100 per cent in his races."

Popular female jockey Christine Puls has the ride on Unrealistic in the feature event on the eight-race program.

"Christine has a good understanding of Unrealistic," he said. "She's a very underrated jockey. I went up to Dunkeld earlier in the week and had a look at the track. It's in magnificent condition.

"The track and surrounds are a credit to the hard-working Dunkeld volunteers. It's just a shame there'll be no big crowds on-course to enjoy the day."

The first race is scheduled to start at 1.01pm with the cup set down for decision at 4.01pm.

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