Top trainers Grant and Alana Williams are optimistic Fluro Neuro can finally breakthrough for his first black-type success in Saturday’s Listed Swan Draught Farnley Stakes (1400m) at Belmont.
The six-year-old gelding has been a model of consistency but has endured a frustrating run of second place finishes in Listed events, including the Grandstand Cup (1500m), Old Comrade Stakes (1600m), Belmont Newmarket (1200m) and most recently the Idyllic Prince Stakes (1300m).
This weekend, Fluro Neuro steps out third-up into his campaign and is ready to peak. He gets the crucial services of jockey William Pike, a significant booking that adds weight to the stable’s confidence that the Farnley Stakes could be his breakthrough race.
His closing burst in the Idyllic Prince Stakes was eye-catching, storming home late behind Phanta. The rise from 1300m to 1400m and the rain affected track conditions adds another layer to his winning prospects.
“I’ve been really happy with the way he’s come back this time,” Williams said on Tabradio.
“He’s a bridesmaid obviously, but you would love to own him, he gives connections a lot of thrills.
“He looks like he can be the winner at stages but just finds one who goes one better.
“In saying that, this race looks good for him, Pikey wanted to get back on, he hasn’t ridden him for a fair while.
“He’s in form and probably the best I’ve had him, his work is really good and I know he’s drawn a sticky gate, but that might work out in our favour on Saturday.”
The Farnley Stakes has attracted 10 runners with Fluro Neuro drawn in barrier 10.
With the track likely to be rated soft or heavy, Fluro Neuro has shown he can handle give in the ground.
Fluro Neuro is currently the $3.30 Tabtouch favourite, his main danger, Cool Memory is at $3.60.
Despite their glittering record in WA racing, the Williams’ have never won a Farnley Stakes.
They’re hoping to join Pike, a three-time winner of the race, after he sat aboard Man Booker, Foxy Boy and Hartleys Dream.
Julio Santarelli