The property is owned by Alan Cardy, a part-owner of Faust, a New Zealand-bred four-year-old by Librettist bidding to give 28-year-old trainer Kurt Goldman his biggest career win. Faust has been in work with Goldman, who took over Cardy’s big string of horses from Danny Williams, for several months.

“He just loves going out through the creek and on trail rides around the property,” Goldman said. “It keeps his mind fresh. That’s what keeps him switched on. He does his work on the track but on his days off goes for trail rides. He’s a happy horse, that’s what is making the difference.”

Faust has had four runs under Goldman, recording two seconds before winning over 1800m on the Kensington track at Randwick on March 26 then a highly impressive 2.5 length win in the Murrumbidgee Cup (1800m) at Wagga on April 13 when he led throughout.

“The horse is really well,” Goldman said. “He came through the Murrumbidgee Cup with no hiccups. He’s right on track. I kept him a bit fresh for the 1800m but more distance is what he’s been looking for. I think he’s definitely a horse on the way up.

“Obviously he’s going to have to be better to win a Wagga Cup, but this has been the plan all along.

“The drop in weight [54 kilograms from 58kg] is going to help him. I think he’ll definitely be there for a long way. He loves a fight if he has to.”

Goldman, who had a background in rodeos and grew up in the Kembla Grange region, did two trades after leaving school – a farrier and bricklayer. However, training racehorses is his passion.

“I’m really looking forward to Friday,” he said. “I’m excited to be in a major race with a strong chance. This is what it’s all about for me and the owners, having nice horses to win big races.”

Faust has drawn in barrier 14 but Goldman doesn’t see the barrier as a big setback.

"Faust is a big horse who likes his space. He doesn’t have to lead as long as he’s happy in running. I’m more than happy I’ve got the horse right where I want him.”