Russell Stewart hopes to street rivals in Perth Stakes

Street Parade is an underdog in Saturday’s Listed Amelia Park-Perth Stakes (1100m), but the gelding’s trainer Russell Stewart is undeterred.

Currently rated a $12 chance by Tabtouch, Street Parade hasn’t ignited strong support from punters and Russell Stewart believes he’s flown under the radar.

Stewart points to Street Parade’s consistency as being lost in the Perth Stakes with the $40,000 yearling earning a cheque every time he has gone around.

He got off to an ideal start by winning on debut in November and has since finished third three times including the Magic Millions WA 2YO Classic (1200m).

Stewart says he won’t dissuade anyone who thinks Street Parade can’t defy market expectations in the 2022 Perth Stakes.

“I was a bit surprised when markets opened, I thought he must have lost a leg,” Stewart told The Races WA.

“I thought he would be around half his current quote.

“He’s a real tradesman and hasn’t finished outside the first four.

“I though he was unlucky not to win the Magic Millions and he hasn’t copped the best barrier draws.

“From an improved barrier and the addition of visors, I’m sure he’ll acquit himself well.”

Stewart’s trust in Street Parade was further boosted after he finished runner-up to Baby Paris in a 400m Belmont trial on Monday.

“He came out of that buzzing,” Stewart said.

“That was the fastest 400m trial he’s run.

“He’s certainly hasn’t gone backwards.”

After barrier 12 of 13, 10 of 14 and 6 of 9, Street Parade will jump from gate three in the Perth Stakes.

Peter Knuckey, who won the Perth Stakes on Zoometric (2002), has the mount.

“He (Knuckey) knows what to do and will have him in the perfect spot,” Stewart said.

“He (Street Parade) won from barrier one at his first race start.

“There are a lot of positives going into the race.”