By Mark Brassel
Murwillumbah trainer Steve Wise is aiming his talented galloper Valiant at the $1.3m The Kosciuszko - if he can manage to gain a slot.
"Valiant was originally a $1.6 million yearling that had two starts for a Sydney trainer and was then sold online for just $11,000," Wise explained.
"I bought him along with my good friend, Doug Walker, who is a sheep farmer and broodmare owner down in Wagga Wagga.
"Valiant is back in full work and on a path for The Kosciuszko - we just need a slot!"
After failing in his debut at Kembla back in October 2018, Valiant has since won all three starts in convincing style.
Following a maiden win at Hawkesbury (1100m) in November 2018, Valiant then changed stables and ownership and relocated to Steve Wise in Murwillumbah.
"He had almost two years away from the track to recover from some minor medical procedures and came back bigger and stronger to win his first start at Gold Coast Turf Club over 1100m in a 0-68 handicap, posting a very impressive time," Wise said.
"He then went to Lismore Cup Day to compete in the feature ($50K) Untamed Open Handicap (1210m) and won well, leading all the way in a fast time of 1:10.41.
"Valiant then went to the spelling paddock to get ready for his next campaign to tackle this year's Kosciuszko.
"He's back in full work now and we will aim him at the Untamed Open Sprint first-up at Lismore on Cup Day (September 23rd)."