Fresh from his win in the Hannans Handicap (1400m), jockey Ben Paterson believes he can pull out another upset result in the XXXX-Gold Kalgoorlie Cup (2300m) on Saturday.
Paterson teams up with Drive West and is adamant the son of Blackfriars can play a prominent role if he reproduces his victory from two starts back at Belmont.
The Joe Miller-trained gelding scored at big odds and returned $90.70 on the TAB after Paterson gained a dream inside run along the fence.
Paterson’s optimism hasn’t been matched by punters who have largely ignored Drive West; he is quoted a $41 hope with Tabtouch.
Supporter confidence took a blow and was dented when he finished ninth of 11 to Red Blast in last Sunday’s Boulder Cup (2100m).
“From his wide barrier I had to get further back than I would have liked and that goes against his racing pattern,” said Paterson.
“From an improved barrier position I can be a lot closer to the leaders.
“I was offered several cup rides but stuck with Drive West because I know he can stay.
“If he can produce a similar effort like two starts back he is in with definite claims.”
Drive West, who has four of five career victories at 2200m, will jump from barrier four.
Julio Santarelli