Sure Thing has been living up to his name for trainer David Smith, becoming a standout performer since arriving in Western Australia. The four-year-old gelding has won five of his seven starts this year, banking nearly $38,000 in earnings after being picked up for just $13,000 from the eastern states.

Since making his debut in February, the son of Akeed Mofeed has dominated at Esperance and Kalgoorlie. After stringing together three wins at Esperance, Sure Thing followed with back-to-back victories at Kalgoorlie, including a convincing 2½ length win last Sunday. Smith admits he’s in uncharted territory with what could be the best horse he’s trained.

“He’s going really well,” Smith told Racing WA. “We picked him out; he was a nice looker and had pace.” Smith credited his partner Shannon Anthony with fixing the gelding’s troublesome feet. With a rise in ratings, the next stop is likely Perth as Smith aims for his first Saturday metropolitan win. “I’ve never had a Saturday winner, so I would like to get one before I give it away,” he added.

The trainer believes Sure Thing could eventually contest the Hannans Handicap, although it remains a long-term goal. “That’s a bit of a pipe dream but if he could measure up, he could be a chance,” Smith said. “He got the 1300m quite easily yesterday (Sunday) and we should be able to stretch him out, hopefully.”

Smith’s early impression of the horse came when Sure Thing scored by 5½ lengths at Esperance, despite carrying extra condition from a long preparation. Sure Thing has also finished second and fourth under Smith, with his only loss at Ascot coming in a speed duel against Nobelity, who has since posted multiple city wins.

With Belmont’s status uncertain, Pinjarra or Northam may host Sure Thing’s next appearance before his potential tilt at Kalgoorlie’s prestigious Hannans Handicap on October 1.

Bettors can get ahead of the action on Sure Thing’s next start by checking odds and bonuses from leading Australian betting sites.