The Melbourne spring carnival might come up a bit too quickly for White Marlin (Mastercraftsman) to take part, but it is expected stablemate Goldman (NZ) (Verdi) can on Saturday confirm his stable’s spring intentions when he tackles the Gr.2 Brisbane Cup (3200m) at Eagle Farm.
Just 12 months ago, both White Marlin and Goldman were most prominent in early Melbourne Cup markets for the Waterhouse/Bott stable, but while a tendon injury has sent the popular grey horse to the sidelines for an extended period, Goldman gets his chance to find that form again on his 3200-metre debut at Eagle Farm.
Co-trainer Adrian Bott said on Thursday that Goldman, who takes his place in the A$400,000 Brisbane Cup alongside stablemate and 2021 winner Knight’s Order (So You Think), was well-placed to tackle the two-mile journey for the first time after three runs back this campaign.
“It looks a nice race for Goldman and a good chance to test him at that trip,” Bott said.
“He’s been good in the lead-ups. I thought last start (third in Premier’s Cup over 2400m) was a good effort and probably showed he was looking for a bit of ground.
“It will give us a good gauge, but he’s given us the indication that he will appreciate it (the 3200m).”
