Rob Gulberti exudes a quiet and calm demeanour. There doesn’t appear to be too much that fazes the Broome trainer.
This composure could be a personality trait, or a reflection of Broome’s tranquil and serene environment.
If Gulberti is anxious ahead of Saturday’s $100,000 Broome Cup (2200m), he is showing nerves of steel.
He is having his second crack at the race after going into last year’s feature full of high expectations with Gladstone.
The Dylan Thomas gelding started favourite with punters but found Central Park to tough a horse to crack, running second.
If Gulberti was feeling dejected at getting within striking distance of Broome’s biggest race he had good counsel to lean on.
His father, Gary, a leading Broome trainer before handing the reins to his son two years ago, suffered multiple disappointments.
In a highly consistent but ultimately frustrating period he had five placings: Tearinupthecountry (2010), Russian Spirit (2004), Key To Cash (2003), Killadeas (2002) and Easy Rhythm (2001).
Gulberti (Rob) says he will continue to pursue the Broome Cup but remains adamant he is under no pressure to break the family drought.
This is despite having strong representation on the weekend with Galaxon, Desert Glow and Gladstone likely nominations.
Galaxon has had the perfect preparation with wins in the Derby Cup (1800m), Contracting Cup (1800m) and Port Hedland Cup (2200m).
Desert Glow issued his threat when he flashed home for second behind Gold Broker in the Kimberley Cup (2020m).
Fifth in the race was Gladstone who will need to improve on his 9 ½ length defeat but is capable of figuring in the finish.
“We have a couple of horses who definitely have a chance but it’s one of those races that has eluded the stable,” said Gulberti.
“Fingers crossed that everything goes all right and we will keep on whacking away on what we have been doing right.
“Hope sooner or later we get it right.”
Julio Santarelli
www.rwwa.com.au