Doomben Cup 2016: Group 1 a big ask; Chris Waller could save Best for last

CHRIS Waller is not sugar coating his chances in Saturday’s Doomben Cup, but is hopeful the meeting can unearth a genuine Stradbroke contender for the stable.

Nathan Exelby

less than 2 min read

May 20, 2016 - 6:00PM

Trainer Chris Waller has a strong hand at Doomben on Saturday. Picture: Jenny Evans

CHRIS Waller was not sugar-coating his chances in Saturday’s Doomben Cup, but the premier Sydney trainer hopes the meeting can unearth a genuine Stradbroke contender for his stable.

Waller has won Doomben Cups, with Metal Bender and Beaten Up, and has Spiritjim and Lady Le Fay striving to add to that tally on Saturday.

HOT TIPS: WEEKEND BEST BETS

BEAT THE BOOKIE: VALUE BETS

“The Gold Coast was a pass mark (for Spiritjim),” Waller said. “I would have been inclined to steer punters into him more confidently if he had finished two lengths closer at the Coast.

“If that had been the case I would have been saying he was the horse to follow into the Doomben Cup.

“He needs to be smarter with his racing tactics. If he could be fifth or sixth on the turn I would say he’s a chance, but not if he’s further back than that.”

Lady Le Fay is on a mission to try to secure more black type before retiring.

“This is more a throw at the stumps. She will be off to stud soon enough,” Waller said. “She’s already a Group winner and it would be nice to get some more black type.

“Realistically, I’m expecting her to finish seventh or eighth, but if we happened to jag a place that would be a great result for the owners.”

The man who has dominated recent Brisbane carnivals is far more confident about his chances in the Fred Best Classic, with Counterattack and Sir Bacchus.

“Counterattack is a very good horse and one with Group 1 ability that hasn’t won a Group 1 yet. He’s as good a horse as we’ve got in the stable at the moment,” he said.

“Sir Bacchus, he’s getting there. He has been pretty impressive in his two wins and really, I think Saturday Sydney class is about Listed class and he has some good form lines.