A wide draw hasn’t dented Bjorn Baker’s confidence in the chances of Disneck in the Inglis Nursery, although he is wary of the unknown impact of the five first starters in the $500,000 race.
Disneck showed the benefit of race experience when he followed a midfield effort in the Golden Gift with a commanding 1100m victory at Rosehill last month, coming from second last on the turn with a sweeping run.
He has been kept fresh for the slight distance drop to 1000m in Saturday’s Inglis Nursery and while he has to overcome an awkward draw in 12, Baker feels the youngster has the tools to adapt.
“The thing about him is he has got a flexible racing pattern so he can roll forward or go back and he’s pretty bombproof,” Baker said.
“Last time he pulled out of a speed battle and was able to get out and finish off.
“We have been pretty happy with him since then and if anything, he has improved.”
Disneck ($6) is by former top sprinter Trapeze Artist and it is another son of the first season sire who holds market sway in debutant Facile ($2.10 fav).
The latter has won his two barrier trials by a combined total of almost eight lengths and Baker admits the unraced brigade is tough to line up.
“You don’t quite know what to expect from some of them and it’s always a competitive race but our bloke is going really well and we can’t fault him,” he said.
“He is just a pleasure to have around and very straightforward.”
Baker will rely on Disneck and Max Lees Classic placegetter Line Of Law in the Listed Inglis Nursery (1000m), with Cathay Bracelet scratched to run at Kembla Grange.
Line Of Law showed natural speed to lead on debut before being overhauled late and has subsequently been given a quiet trial to tune-up for Saturday’s race.
“She is a filly who will no doubt get better in time, but she’s got talent and she’ll be up there somewhere,” Baker said.
Despite being restricted to horses sold through an Inglis sale, the Nursery boasts a classy honour roll which includes inaugural winner Extreme Choice (2015), Golden Slipper heroine She Will Reign (2016) and Group 1 performer Wild Ruler (2019).