Trainer Stephen Miller and jockey Brad Parnham are holding out hope that a change of fortune is on the horizon as they set their sights on Saturday’s Listed Belmont Guineas (1600m) at Pinjarra with Elite Missile.

The pair has endured a string of frustrating near-misses in recent black-type races. Magnificent Andy fell agonisingly short in three consecutive events—the Northam Stakes, Belmont Sprint, and Hyperion Stakes—while Elite Missile recently surged late to finish second in the Raconteur Stakes.

Elite Missile was given little chance after drawing wide and dropping to last, but his final burst down the stretch showcased the promise of a horse ready for the mile.

“I’m obviously real keen on his chances,” said Parnham on Tabradio.

“He was a great run the other day in Bunbury.

“We drew the widest gate and had to get back to last.

“He does always finish off strong, but if we can draw a little bit better and not have to give them such a big start.

“The way he was finishing off you would say the 1600m is going to probably suit him better.

“Look, I think he’s going to give them a big shake.”

The duo previously teamed up to win the Belmont Guineas in 2017 with Variation, adding a sense of déjà vu to this year’s hopeful bid.

Punters looking to back Elite Missile in the Belmont Guineas can find top promotions and competitive odds across Australia’s leading betting sites.