Chris Nash is steadfast his first visit to Western Australia won’t be in vain and that Design For Life can upset the local contingent in the $100,000 XXXX-Gold Broome Cup (2200m) on Saturday.
Punters are not in a rush to share the same sentiment as Nash with Design For Life, the lone interstate raider, $21 on the TAB after two poor lead in runs in Darwin.
The Flying Spur six-year-old ran seventh of 12 in the Buntine Handicap (1900m) before finishing ahead of one starter in the Racing Metric Mile three weeks ago.
But Nash believes the runs are better than what they appear and advises punters to go on Design For Life’s previous effort when second to Darwin Cup champion, Lightinthenite.
“Rule a line on his last two efforts because he was luckless and couldn’t get a clear run at them after going back,” said Nash.
“Before that he ran second to Lightinthenite who smashed the track record and then came out and won the Darwin Cup (2000m)easily.
“I think he is a touch overs in betting and if you take away his two glitches he would be single figure odds.
“He has settled in well since arriving, is jumping out of his skin and I really give him a big chance to figure in the placings.”
Design For Life, who commenced his career under the tutelage of Melbourne trainer, Robert Smerdon, has won four races from 21 starts but has yet to win beyond a mile.
He had one crack at a middle distance staying trip and failed when second last to Bellveau at Moonee Valley earlier in January. Nash downplayed his record.
“He is well bred out of the mare Republic Lass who won an AJC Oaks,” said Nash.
“He has got the pedigree and I’m not concerned about the trip.”
Colin Haddon has been entrusted with the riding duties on Design For Life. The pair combine for the first occasion from barrier 10.
Haddon is chasing is second win in the Broome Cup after partnering Marseillaise for trainer, Tom Pike, three years ago.
Design For Life is $21 with the TAB.
RWWA: Julio Santarelli