SMITH EYES OFF ’BOOL

But beach access could put sand in the works

TOP West Australian trainer Lindsey Smith has lodged an application for a Victorian training licence with an aim to occupy the Warrnambool stables formerly belonging to Darren Weir.

But Smith, who tasted Group 1 success in Melbourne with Plastered in the 2004 VRC Derby, will move east only if he has beach access.

Renowned for using sand to build fitness in his horses, he said it would be pointless relocating unless he could use the beach as well as the racetrack.

“I’ve had positive discussions with the Warrnambool City Council and I respect the process,” Smith said.

“But I can’t sign a 12-month lease and three months later find out the beach access is no longer there.

“I don’t need to move to Victoria. I’d love to do it but it’s not something I have to do.”

Racing Victoria’s licensing panel will discuss his submission before referring it to RV’s board.

“I’ve got a visiting licence to train in Victoria. I’m not allowed to train at that stable (Weir’s former yard) with a visiting licence because there’s no licensed trainer at that stable,” Smith said.

He has transferred Mackinnon Stakes winner Trap For Fools and Scales Of Justice to Jarrod McLean in recent seasons, in pursuit of bigger prizemoney.

McLean has been denied use of Weir’s former boxes on land owned by the Warrnambool Racing Club as investigations by Victoria Police and RV into the discovery of jiggers continues.

Weir was disqualified for four years over possession of jiggers. McLean’s case has yet to be heard.

Weir’s boxes were recently sold to a prominent industry participant.

Smith remains keen to step into the breach, subject to beach access.

“I’ve sent a few horses over there lately and I’d like to train out of there if it worked out,” he said.