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The Brett Bellamy-trained Smart Max will carry hopes of the 'Bowraville connection' when the three-year-old attempts to break its maiden status at Coffs Harbour on Saturday.

Smart Max tackles the Whitewood Racing Maiden (1207m).

The gelding will be ridden by Bowraville raised jockey Raymond Spokes, Bellamy's number one stable jockey.

Smart Max is raced by a syndicate that includes Bowraville stalwart Greg Doolan and other club committee members and Coffs Harbour Racing Club chairman Allan Johnson.

The son of Spymaster out of Seems Sweet was bred by the syndicate.

A win by Smart Max would be fitting as his Bowraville-based sire died this week.

“It would be nice for the boys to finally win one,” Bellamy suggested. “We're chasing a BOBS bonus before he goes on holiday (spell).

“The horse has done good since his last run.

“Saturday might be that bit easier than Coffs Harbour cup day.”

Smart Max finished an unlucky 2.7 lengths fifth to Champagne Nancy in a 1200m maiden on August 4 when ridden by Robert Thompson making good ground over the final 150m.

“He got held up when he didn't need to but made good ground in the run home,” Bellamy added. “He's been thereabouts all preparation without winning one.

“Hopefully that changes tomorrow.”

At his previous start on his home track, Smart Max was beaten 1.4 lengths fourth to For Kings I Dance on July 24. It was a similar performance to cup day, held up at the wrong time before making good ground in the run to the post.

“He just hasn't had much luck,” Bellamy ruled. “I'm very happy with him, he's very fit and just needs a few things to go his way to win one.”

Bellamy added barrier two was an advantage.

Smart Max is rated $4.50 favourite in early markets.