Diamond a hope on his Bunya visit

RACING: Smokey Diamond is as tough as old boots, and Harry Richardson hopes he gets the chance to prove that at Bunya Park today.

The striking grey won in town almost a year ago to the day, however has been in a battle to get back to his best following a virus.

The five-year-old ran an encouraging seventh first-up from a spell at Ipswich, and trainer Richardson believes he is on the mend ahead of the TAB Class 3 Handicap (1400m).

“He had to get over a virus, but his run at Ipswich was very good,” Richardson said.

“He’s now back in a weaker class and only has to carry a kilo more.

“There’s a couple in the race that went well at Ipswich last start, Jochberg and Louie La’joy, plus Matt Kropp’s horse (Proud Roc). That’s probably the four (chances) of them.

“The distance is not as suitable, he’s more of a 1600m horse, but in that class he should go close.”

Richardson said his leading hope comes in the form of youngster Coffee Coming in the TAB Fillies and Mares Maiden Plate (1000m).

She carries formlines through a fourth to Red Wabbat at Kilcoy, an impressive winner at Clifford Park a fortnight ago, and Richardson said a key gear change could improve her.

“She’s the one that could blow them all out of the water,” he said.

“I think she’s my best of the day. She’s improved out of sight since putting the blinkers on her.

“I don’t think it’s a very strong maiden. Some have had a fair few chances and she could be a little bit of a surprise packet.”

Moss Go Now rounds out the runners for Richardson in the TAB Benchmark 58 Handicap (1788m).

“The pace might be strong which will suit him,” he said.

“With 58kg in that class, he’s right in the race.”