Cliff Green delighted to be in Raconteur Stakes

A decade since he returned for another stint at racing, Cliff Green will have his first representation in a black type race at Belmont on Saturday.

Green will saddle up Benji’s in the Listed Raconteur Stakes (1400m), the rank outsider and despite having modest expectations, Cliff Green is keen to explore the gelding’s preparation ahead.

“I think it might be a tad too short for him,” Green told The Races WA.

“He’s done enough to have a crack and I’m keen to see how he measures up.

“If he goes well I think a race like the Belmont Guineas over the mile will be right for him.

“If he can finish three lengths from them I will be happy.

“He won’t be running like an outsider; his price is ridiculous.”

Benji’s heads into Saturday’s big assignment on the back of a couple of impressive performances at Northam.

He ran a close third to Rommel’s Command on debut after powering home out wide from back in the field.

Next start he broke through after making use of the getaway and shook off Acting God late to score by a short half head.

“He’s doing it on raw ability at the moment,” Green said.

“Whatever he does I’m confident he will come back stronger next preparation.

‘It’s good to have a young horse in the stable with some promise.

“We rarely race three-year-old’s, mostly older ones.

“He’s not the finished product and it’s nice to get some quality in the stable.”

Benji’s will jump from barrier 8. Steven Parnham replaces the absent Shaun O’Donnell

The son of Toorak Toff is $71 in current TAB markets.

Meanwhile Green’s evergreen nine-year-old Mosseratti contests the Crown Perth Handicap (2200m).

“I don’t think he is going as well as last campaign,” Green said.

“But he didn’t get a lot of luck last start.

“I think from the draw (6) he will be ridden more positively.”