Brad Parnham and Stephen Miller are hoping their string of near-misses in feature races will finally come to an end when they line up Elite Missile in Saturday’s Listed Belmont Guineas (1600m) at Pinjarra.
Despite strong performances from their stable stars Magnificent Andy and Elite Missile, the duo have consistently found themselves runners-up in black-type events throughout the winter. Magnificent Andy, in particular, placed second in the Northam Stakes, Belmont Sprint, and Hyperion Stakes. Elite Missile continued the pattern, just missing in the Raconteur Stakes.
That latest effort has given Parnham reason to believe the tide might turn. After drawing wide, Elite Missile was taken back to last but produced a slashing finish, recording the fastest final 600m of the race and showing serious potential.
“I’m obviously real keen on his chances,” Parnham told Tabradio.
“He was a great run the other day in Bunbury.
“We drew the widest gate and had to get back to last.
“He does always finish off strong, but if we can draw a little bit better and not have to give them such a big start.
“The way he was finishing off you would say the 1600m is going to probably suit him better.
“Look, I think he’s going to give them a big shake.”
Parnham and Miller have history on their side as well, having teamed up in 2017 to win the Belmont Guineas with Variation, who beat out Gatting and Western Temple as favourite.
If you’re considering backing Elite Missile in the Belmont Guineas, explore Australia’s top betting sites for the latest odds, promos, and expert tips on this key winter feature.