Wright’s Slick Belmont Move

Craig Wright’s faith in Slick Mover will be put to the test when the Kalgoorlie-trained three-year-old races at Belmont on Saturday.

The former Perth sprinter has been an excellent acquisition for Wright and goes on trial for major goldfield races later this year.

After posting consecutive Kalgoorlie wins last week, Slick Mover chases a hat trick in the J.J. Richards & Sons Handicap (1400m).

“He has always shown ability and his form is hard to fault,” Wright said.

“The way he has been going he deserves a shot at Saturday company.

“I’m confident he will run a competitive race.

“If he goes well I have some big plans lined up.

“I don’t want to say too much just yet, but the weekend will tell me a lot.

“I’m not concerned by the back-up and think he will actually thrive.

“My only concern is a tricky draw and the possibility of a rain affected track.”

Slick Mover, unplaced only three times from 11 career starts, has drawn barrier 12 of 14. Top jockey Dan Staeck takes the ride.

Meanwhile Wright believes a gear change can help boost the hopes of speedster Queenie O’Lara in the Tabtouch Handicap (1000m).

The mare has not finished outside the first two at her past six starts, but will need to go up another gear against stronger opposition.

“She is so tough and honest, who jumps and runs, but up in class she can be a sitting duck, Wright said

“That’s why I have tinkered around with her gear, blinkers on, winkers off, so she can relax and settle.

“She is going super and I expect another competitive race from her.

“I believe both my horses will produce good runs.”

In a field of 11 starters, Queenie O’Lara jumps from barrier seven. The daughter of Blackfriars will be partnered by Brad Parnham.

Races