Kalgoorlie trainers Trent Brown and Dean Nazzari will go head-to-head when their form gallopers Foryouandme and Brother Patrick clash in the Boutique Laundry & Dry Cleaning Handicap (1600m) on Sunday.
Foryouandme has been a revelation since entering Brown’s stable earlier this year and is fast becoming a favourite with punters after notching consecutive wins from his first three appearances this time in.
Former New South Wales galloper Brother Patrick has also impressed with two wins from three starts including last week when he ran on strongly from sixth position to defeat Intimidator over 1300m.
Brother Patrick atoned for his previous failure after fading to finish 11th of 13 behind Revy Jay but there were genuine excuses when a post-race veterinary examination revealed the gelding to have suffered cardiac arrhythmia.
“It should be a good clash and I’m keen to see how my horse will go in open company,” said Brown.
“It’s a small but select field and don’t discount Revy Jay and Morsecodian.
“I’m entering the race with confidence and I can assure punters he has not gone backwards since his last win.”
Gary Bowen will take a two-pronged attack into the WAROA Bonus Day Maiden (1100m) but has a clear preference for Reeba Blitz who will jump from barrier seven for Aaron Rogers.
The Natural Blitz gelding lost his first two starts last season by a combined total of 20 lengths but a recent barrier trial over 600m has boosted Bowen’s confidence.
Reeba Blitz ran a neck second to Massivo who has since gone on to win two of his next three starts.
“I have a high opinion of this horse who is a very speedy competitor,” said Brown.
“If not for a wide draw I would be declaring but a great each way chance nevertheless.”
Bowen rates Massivo as the horse to beat in the Star & Garter Hotel Handicap (1100m) but has cautioned punters not to dismiss the challenge from his charge Fireside.
The Hurricane Sky mare was impressive first up when she pushed Secret Prince to a neck second before fading and finishing a disappoint fifth behind Hiatus on Anzac Day.
“Tough to get over Massivo who has pole position and my horse the extreme outside gate,” said Bowen.
“But forget her last effort because she didn’t enjoy the best of runs.
“She definitely has the capacity to improve.”
Bowen said little separates stable mates Menuhin and Not So Vain who will meet in the Leonora Golden Gift Handicap (1400m).
Both gallopers will strip fitter after making encouraging returns to racing last fortnight.
“If Menuhin gets luck in running a big chance,” said Bowen.
“Not So Vain was strong to the line and with cover can play a part.
“A slight leaning to Menuhin who is smart on his day.”