12 September 2019 | Paul Courts
ALTHOUGH stepping out of his recent comfort zone, Futurist is a “solid chance” at Globe Derby on Saturday night.
That’s the call from trainer Darren Billinger, who will contest a Discretionary Handicap with the son of Armbro Operative.
Racing in his customary consistent fashion, Futurist’s few wins since scoring in Mildura last January have been in claiming company.
The rig has struggled to find the winners’ circle outside of the ‘protected arena’, but has managed to run several placings, including a second in a similar handicap four starts ago.
On that occasion Futurist began from the 10-metre line – a mark he shares with three rivals this weekend.
“He is going well and is a solid chance again,” Billinger said. “The 2230 metres will suit him and he’s not handicapped badly.
“He’s feeling good and with the right run can be in the finish.
“Canada Bay and Bettorhavtime, which are also coming from the 10-metre mark, are the pair to beat.”
Given his recent status as ‘King of the Claimers”, Futurist will be targeted at the newly-announced Claiming Series, which begins with heats on Saturday, October 5 and ultimately leads into a Final at Globe Derby Park on Saturday, November 9.
“The new claiming series looks like a good option for him so that’s the way he will be heading,” Billinger said.
- PAUL COURTS
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