Flying chaser Country">Country Wal can overcome a tricky box draw and secure a fourth consecutive victory in the Barry Colless Appreciation Stakes (400m) at Bulli tonight.
That is the verdict from trainer Neil Staines ahead of what looks a cracking seventh race on the card at the Illawarra track.
As well as his recent good form, Country Wal’s run of eight wins from 16 starts includes a super 22.43 triumph at this track last month.
He faces some tough opposition in this race and looks to have drawn awkwardly in box four but Staines still thinks his charge can salute again here.
“For sure, he can win here,” he said.
“This is a tough race but he has been jumping brilliantly.
“He is usually a good beginner and a hard chaser (so) I have no doubt he can still win from this box.
“If he gets away with them he has got a chance.”
A son of Spring Gun x Country Bell, Country Wal has recorded some good performances since debuting in November last year.
He has wins at Nowra and Goulburn to his name as well as two back-to-back triumphs at Temora over the 330m on his last two starts.
Watch Country Wal’s last start win at Temora here.
This race is a corker, with gun sprinter Spring Ricky (box five), the always-dangerous Paua To Roar in box eight and handy Silent Crash in box two also having claims.
“The two dog is very smart,” Staines said. “Mine beat him on his last visit to Bulli, but that time we were on the inside.
“Country Fox is not overly strong at the moment but he is a super starter.
“He is going pretty well and I’m confident he can win here.”
Staines also said that Country Wal’s impressive kennelmate Country Fox, who jumps again in the ninth at Wentworth Park this Saturday, is being primed for the forthcoming Group 3 New Sensation.
The chaser already has two wins in the city to his name among his first 12 starts and Staines believes he can “certainly” be a threat for the series.
Other strong chances at Bulli Wednesday include Oban (race five) and Once A DRIFTER in the sixth.
Look for Asa Unbreakable to complete the quaddie in race eight.
For Bulli Wednesday fields, form and expert picks, click here.
