If the Tab touch market is to be believed the $200,000 Belmont Sprint is a race in one with Western Empire installed the $1.90 hot favourite in the quality 16-horse field.

Western Empire, with a Group 1 Railway Stakes (1600m) victory next to his name, validated top market billing after an imposing win in the Northam Stakes (1300m).

The Velvet Queen is aiming for her first stakes success after going close in the Belmont Sprint last year when second to subsequent Railway Stakes champion, Bustler.

The Velvet Queen is currently rated a $21 chance in the Belmont Sprint and Turner says if he she runs to her level she's capable of causing a major surprise.

"From what I can remember she was favourite in this race last year, or definitely in the market," Turner said on Tabradio.

"She looks like a nice pick up ride and if she's right, the stable is obviously flying at the moment, she can run a good race.

"I'm looking forward to it and it's definitely one of the best Belmont Sprints that I have seen.

"You look at Aztec Ruler who is an emergency and that just shows you the depth of the race."

With Chris Parnham having tasted success in all seven of The Velvet Queen's wins, Turner gets his first opportunity to sit aboard the mare.

Parnham partners Valour Road for trainer Simon Miller, the eight-year-old on the third line of betting ($12) behind Western Empire and Alsephina ($10).

McAuliffe hopes family bloodlines can continue to shine in a feature Perth winter race that has been successful to his stable in recent times.

Universal Ruler gave McAuliffe his first Belmont Sprint in 2009 before siring The Velvet King who followed up in 2021.

Turner can match the Belmont Sprint feats of his father after Troy Turner booted home Dark 'n' Dangerous for Ken Shanks in 2002.