Brando to fire for Neville Bell at Doomben

Brisbane Racing Club chairman Neville Bell has had a testing winter carnival but he could get something to cheer about with the promising Brando at Doomben.

Bell has had to bear the brunt of criticism about the controversial Eagle Farm racetrack which is closed indefinitely with the main meetings at Doomben.

Also a prominent owner and breeder, Bell is looking to Brando to give him a first black-type win for the season in Saturday’s Listed Winning Edge Two-Year-Old Stakes (1350m).

Bell sent his mare Candice to Desert King, the sire of three-time Melbourne Cup winner Makybe Diva, hoping to breed a top stayer.

Candice won two races at 2200m and was placed nine times during her career at middle distances.

Brando was well beaten at his first start over 1200m and had three trials before resuming with an unlucky second in a three-way photo-finish to an open maiden at the Gold Coast over 1400m two weeks ago.

“He was third over the line but protested successfully against the second horse. He probably should have won as it was a blanket finish,” Bell said.

“Brando is probably looking for 1600 metres now so coming back to 1350 isn’t ideal. But here is hoping.”