Richardson looks for Battle of the Bush glory

By Glenn Davis

The Battle of the Bush has become the ultimate prize for Queensland’s country trainers since its inception in 2018.

It’s just one reason why Toowoomba trainer Glenn Richardson is planning an assault on two country centres at Thangool and Goondiwindi on Saturday in an attempt to gain qualification for the Final.

Richardson has never won the $200,000 Battle of the Bush Final which will be run over 1200 metres at Eagle Farm on June 27.

“I’ve had a couple of goes at the Final but I’m yet to win it,” Richardson said.

“I qualified two runners for the first Final in 2018 then had one in the following year and two years after that but never won.

“I’ve got three horses I’m hoping to qualify for this year’s Final entered for Thangool and Goondiwindi and I’ll accept in both places and wait for the barriers before deciding where to go with them.”

Richardson’s trio include Palatial Prince, Horrible Hank and Bee Two.

Palatial Prince is coming off a last start second in a 1200 metre Benchmark race at Nanango on April 4.

The in-form Horrible Hank has had a win and two seconds from his past three starts including a last start second in a 1200 metre Benchmark race at Thangool on March 2.

Bee Two finished fifth at his third start this campaign over 1000 metres at Flinton on April 4.

Richardson hinted Bee Two was likely to head to Thangool but was keeping his cards close to his chest with the gelding’s stablemates.

“Bee Two showed us last campaign he was up to being a Battle of the Bush horse and he’s likely to go to Thangool depending on the barrier draw,” he said.

“Palatial Prince and Horrible Hank are two different types of horse so the draws and the field strength will be vital.

“Palatial Prince likes to lead and get his own way in front, so we’ll pick the best race for him at Thangool or Goondiwindi.

“On the other hand, Horrible Hank gets back and needs a bit of luck in his races.

“He’s been to Thangool twice for a win and a second, but he’s never been to Goondiwindi.”

Richardson trained for many years at Nanango before moving to the Bahram training and spelling centre at Westbrook on Toowoomba’s outskirts.

“I’ve been at the Bahram facility for about a year now and have 12 horses in work after I did a short stint in Toowoomba,” he said.