By Tony McMahon
The greatest assembly of prize money earners in the 40 plus-years history of racing at Moranbah will clash in the Country Stampede Qualifier at Treasure Park on Saturday.
Headed by the evergreen and mercurial Fab’s Cowboy ($390,350 in stakes), the nine acceptors have amassed $1,575,440.
Furthermore, the field for the $12,000 qualifier have accrued 109 wins all up.
Some 16 Country Stampede Qualifiers are run at country tracks throughout Queensland from September 19 until the last at Roma on November 19.
The 16 horse field for the $105,000 Final at Doomben on December 3 will be determined from horses meeting stringent eligibility conditions including performances in qualifying races.
Without doubt, Saturday’s Moranbah edition of the series of eight qualifiers run so far, has brought together the strongest field.
Crowd favourite and country racing’s top act Fab’s Cowboy is out to win his 50th race but each time he tries to bring up the half century of wins it gets just that little bit harder.
“It’s going to be a big assignment for him, it is such a quality field," Mel Johnson, wife of trainer Bill, said.
“He is used to it all. I am more nervous than him especially this time as it is so strong a race.”
Going on his calm and relaxed demeanour, it’s no stress for Fab’s Cowboy as he prepares for another racing showdown, in a career that has already amassed 131 starts.