And now, in what is the biggest race of his career to date, he has it.
The random barrier draw generator came up with barrier 3 for Natuzzi in tomorrow's $250,000 Telegraph Handicap, and Richards could not be happier.
''That will help the cause a bit,'' Richards said.
''Anywhere middle or inside of that would have been good.''
Barrier draws are not the ultimate decider at Trentham over the sprint distance of 1200m, as the race starts at the top of a chute and gives the poorly-drawn horses more chance of making ground early in the race.
But that too, could work in Natuzzi's favour, as his new jockey, Michael Coleman, positions the gelding shortly after the start.
''Eight Schillings will go forward, but there's always plenty of pace in it especially with a big field like that. The ones that get caught wide go forward and there's plenty of speed on.''
Coleman picked up the ride after Chris Johnson opted to remain loyal to Final Touch, who will carry 58.5kg when she jumps from the worst possible gate of barrier 20.
''Chris stayed with Final Touch which is understandable, so Michael is as good a rider as any. He's been there, done that,'' Richards said.
''I guess you can draw some confidence from the fact that Chris ummed and aahed which one he was going to ride. It wasn't until Sunday that he made his mind up.''
Reports from Natuzzi's summer lodgings at Richard Collett's stable in Pukekohe are all positive, Richards said.
''Richard is really happy with his condition - he's eating good, nice and bright, and bright in the eye.
''He did a half-pace on Saturday, a bit of half-pace yesterday morning and three-quarters down the straight.''
Richards has ensured Natuzzi has avoided a full-pace gallop, as the 5yr-old is at his best when slightly fresh.
''The more pace on, the better it suits him because he relaxes better.''
The real benefits of Natuzzi's successful journey to Trentham in March for the listed Lightning Handicap could shine through tomorrow, particularly as he gets to carry 54.5kg - his lightest weight since his slashing second in the White Robe Lodge Handicap last February.
''He's done it at Trentham before - obviously not in group 1 company, but stakes company.
''It proved that he was competitive there, and he's shown in his previous two starts that he's up to them.''
Richards nominated Waterford and Nashville as the major dangers.
''Waterford with 53kg on her back is always a chance and Nashville is a quality animal but there are numerous chances.''
Natuzzi was already the subject of some interest in the future fixed odds market before it closed on Tuesday, one punter investing $600 at the odds of $12 at the weekend, TAB fixed odds bookmaker Thad Taylor said.
He was installed as the third favourite at $7 when the final field market opened on Wednesday following the barrier draw.
