Western Gateway winner Christopher Dance will have to overcome a difficult draw if he’s to win Friday’s WA Derby (2536m).
The Greg and Skye Bond-trained pacer drew barrier nine for the $200,000 event, following his impressive win in the key lead up race a fortnight ago.
It wasn’t all bad news for the Bond stable, who have five runners in the race, with 2023 Golden Slipper winner Vegas Strip drawing barrier one.
Tualou (barrier four), Thenu Came Along (11) and Golden Lode (12) are the other members of the Bond quintet in the $200,000 event.
Madam Publisher also looks set to have a tough task in front of her from barrier eight, as she looks to complete the WA Oaks-WA Derby double.
Trainer Gary Hall Snr, a six-time WA Derby winning trainer, has Alta Tribute engaged in this week’s edition from barrier two.
Justin Prentice, who had Never Ending finish runner-up in last year’s edition, will be hunting a third success in the race with Artful Major from barrier five.
Franco Encore (three) and Waverider (seven) give trainer Ryan Bell two runners in the event, while Worlds Above (six) and Menemsha (10) round out the field.
Tim Walker
Image - Pacepix