Trainer Desleigh Forster has only one worry about running Desert Digby in open company instead of a restricted race at Eagle Farm.
Forster accepted with Desert Digby in Saturday’s UMS Schoolwear Open Handicap (1200m) and the TAB No Metropolitan Win Handicap (1200m).
After studying the two fields she opted to take on open company with the gelding.
Forster said there did not look to be a lot of pace in the Open race which meant Desert Digby should get a good trail.
“Snoopy looks the early pace in the race and we should get across behind him,” Forster said.
“It isn’t the strongest open company race around and I have a good opinion of Desert Digby.
“He gets into the race on the minimum of 54kg and that is a real plus.”
Forster said the big worry was how Desert Digby would be treated in the ratings if he raced well.
“It can happen with horses who win an Open or feature race. They get slaughtered at the ratings which means more weight,” she said.
“But I think races like Saturday’s don’t come along too often so we might as well have a go.”
Desert Digby was an impressive midweek winner at the Sunshine Coast at his last start.
“We actually had him in an open handicap two weeks ago and went to the Sunshine Coast instead. I think he could have won that open as it turned out,” Forster said.
She will have her eye on the television monitor on Saturday for the Birdsville Cup where her father Henry will saddle Heroism.
“It would be great for Dad to win it as he has been a tremendous supporter of country racing for years,” she said.
Jockey Mark Du Plessis missed Ipswich on Wednesday but should be fit to ride Desert Digby on Saturday.
