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Flemington – Saturday 10 September 2022

English Riviera (Race 3)

English Riveria was heavily backed in the Cap D’Antibes after bolting in on the synthetic first up.  She quickened nicely before weakening to run fourth.  Think the significant head wind may have been the reason for this.  Would be forgiving of the last part of her race and think we can be looking to back her next start in a race over 1000/1100m preferably back around a bend.

Pinstriped (Race 4)

Drew the widest marble which meant they had to snag right back to near last to get some cover on him.  Ran home very strongly into second.  Cracking first up effort.  Lightweight chance in next months Toorak?

Foxy Frida (Race 7)

Quality mare trained by Andrew Noblet.  Resumed on Saturday in the Let’s Elope over 1400m.  Couldn’t quicken at a key stage but wasn’t beaten far and was very strong late.  She won’t be out of it over 1600m next start but I think a race like the Matriarch on the last day of the Flemington carnival has her name written all over it.

Yearning (Race 7)

Well identified by Bryce on our podcast as a horse who could run well at big odds.  Went terrific here first up, getting back and flashing home into third.  In for a good prep.

Moe – Tuesday 6 September 2022

Calico Jack (Race 1)

A good thing beaten today, he took a while to get through his gears but absolutely flew through the line. Suited next run up in trip and with a more positive steer.

Moonee Valley – Saturday 3 September 2022

Meridius (Race 3)

 Charged late to just miss Shalaman who had a picnic out in front.  Has a stack of upside and will be better suited on a bigger track next start.  Liked his late closing splits.

Boogie Dancer (Race 6)

Freshened.  Back to 1200m.  Couldn’t quicken at a crucial time but my goodness her last 100m was good.  She can settle closer in the run at 1400m next time and be really hard to beat.

Uncle Bryn (Race 8)

Ran well in the PB Lawrence first up where he was completely unsuited.  Wrong set up again on Saturday having to make a looping run against a key rival who lead on his ear.  Has done a good job to get into a clear second.  Could be a moral next start.

Unanimous (Race 9)

Flew home against the bias.  His lack of early speed means he always needs some luck in running but he has a very powerful finish.  That’s his third good run of the prep and another who will be suited getting onto a more spacious track next start.  Is ready to win now.

Caulfield – Saturday 27 August 2022

Corona Lad (Race 3)

Resumed in second preparation.  Camped behind the speed and had no luck at a crucial stage.  Raced in traffic all the way up home straight.  Solid return.  Likely be over the odds next start especially given its connections.

El Rocko (Race 3)

Is airborne this horse.  Held up as the other fancied chances gathered momentum.  Charged to the line to run second once in clear air. Fastest last 200m split of the meeting. Will be very hard to beat if they find him a race in same class on a wet track next start.

I Wish I Win (Race 4)

Outstanding first up win for Peter Moody.  Backed as if unbeatable and dually won like a $1.50 chance.   Has Toorak Handicap written all over her?

Fortunate Kiss (Race 6)

Resumed in the Group 3 1100m event for the four year olds and up.  Not suited at this distance/ in this class against the boys but finished off well enough down the outside.  Would be very interested if they go back to benchmark grade with her next start.

Kissonallforcheeks (Race 7)

Now under the care of gun trainer Nick Ryan.  Did a very solid job here first up at 1200m.  Can be very hard to beat in the right race second up at 1400m.

Memsie Stakes

One of the highest rating Memsie’s we have seen in recent years.

I’m Thunderstruck (Race 8 – Memsie Stakes)

I’m Thunderstruck is the obvious horse to follow out of the race.  Big flashing light steaming down the outside with the race shape against it.  That’s an extremely good first up effort in a high rating Memsie.  Hard to beat in the Group 1 Makybe Diva.

Duais (Race 8 – Memsie Stakes)

Loved the first up run of Duais.  She is on a Caulfield Cup path so they rode her ice cold out the back.  Had to circle wide on the bend and was very good through and beyond the line.  On track for the Caulfield Cup.

 

Sheraz (Race 9)

Arrived on Australian shores 12 months ago with big wraps – was heavily backed in a Bart Cummings first up and didn’t fire.  Ran second in the Sydney Cup in the Autumn then spelled.  Resumed at 1700m on Saturday and was probably unlucky not to win.  Clearly in front 50m past post.  Looks like we might see the best of him this prep.

Daqiansweet Junior (Race 9)

Liked the way he had been jumping out leading in and like that Jamie Kah has stuck with him.  Also liked the way he hit the line here first up.  Will probably need one more run but keep an eye on him heading towards a race like the Bart Cummings over 2500m at Flemington.  Goes even better on the dry tracks too.

Moonee Valley – Saturday 20 August 2022

Shot Of Irish (Race 3)

The former Tasmanian Shot Of Irish is now with the Patrick Payne stable.  He did most of his racing on the speed with his previous connections however as often is the case with the Payne runners they opted to ride him cold here first up.  And the race shape simply didn’t suit.  They went slow early then cranked it up through the middle stages making it near on impossible for the backmarkers to get into the race.  Once Shot Of Irish was finally able to get balanced over the concluding stages he worked home really nicely passing three or four of them – while peeling off the fastest closing splits of the race.  Furthermore, he was rock solid at $5.50 in the market which is always an encouraging sign first up.  He looks rejuvenated and in for a good campaign.

Smokin’ Romans (Race 7)

Liked the run of Smokin’ Romans in race seven on the program.  They went back on him first up at the mile and again opted to take a sit with him here second up at 2040m.  He chased his rock hard fit and inform stable mate Mankayan strongly home into second place.  He is a proven winner and now that he has a decent fitness base behind him look for him to be put into the race next start.  Is ready to win.

Donald – Tuesday 16 August 2022

Jet Jitsu (Race 2)

Strong return for the new stable and a horse that has shown glimpses of ability but being cluttered has often brought it unstuck. Was suited to a wide draw and should improve out in trip as the prep goes on. Stick with it.

Miss Daniel (Race 6)

Probably not suited by the conditions today but still had the class to overcome that. Looks to have come back well and should only get better on drier tracks. Going well for the new  stable and enjoying the change of scenery, worth sticking with it.

Caulfield – Saturday 13 August 2022

Attractable (Race 4)

 Settled further forward here second up and travelled into the race like the winner only to be run down by the South Australian I Am Bene who looks every bit a stakes class horse.  They ran a long here so fitness may have told late.  Should improve again off this and be hard to beat in a similar race third up.

Millane (Race 5)

 Peter Moody trained colt who is being aimed at the Caulfield Guineas.  Jumped as well as anything in the race here fresh but they opted to go back on him in what can only be described as a glorified barrier trial.  The race was in no way run to suit with leader Alpha One crawling out in front.  Loved the way he still ran home strongly into third in very strong closing splits relative to the rest of the day.  He is going to be a force to be reckoned with once they get him out to 1400m and beyond.

Elephant (Race 8)

 Only had one jump out leading into his first up assignment and thus they decided to ride him cold.  He was left flat footed when the sprint went on and then appeared to shy at something as they turned for home which knocked him temporarily off stride.  Liked the way he kept finding and I thought he was good through the line under minimal riding from Daniel Moor.  With fitness under his belt he can potentially settle much closer in the run at his next start.  A live each way chance in next weeks Memsie.

 Unanimous (Race 9)

 Five year old gelding who has always shown good ability and I think he might be finally starting to put it all together.  Has hit the line well at both starts this campaign.  Looks ready to put himself in the finish at his next start.

Flemington – Saturday 6 August 2022

Veranskova (Race 3)

We were keen on Veranskova chances on Saturday and thanks to a clever ride from Mark Zahra she was allowed to produce a performance far superior to the rest of her rivals.  We think she is a real talent this horse and is well and truly capable of winning again up in class next start.

Protection Money (Race 4)

Protection Money was second up from a long spell on Saturday.  After an encouraging first up run she backed it up with another good performance working home very nicely into fourth place.  Can be a great winning chance in the right race third up.

Fire (Race 9)

Talented Hawkes galloper who got very soft very late in betting.  Perhaps he paraded poorly or the bigger syndicates had another reason to be against?  Not sure.  Regardless he still ran a terrific second with a good margin to the third horse.  The stable has a massive wrap on this horse and I expect him to be hard to beat in what ever he runs in next start.

Moonee Valley – Saturday 30 July 2022

Mohican Heights (Race 1)

Waller stayer having his third run back.  Sat in behind a slow pace.  Couldn’t quicken immediately with the leader as the tempo built around the back but once he did pick up the bit he got through his gears nicely into a clear second.  Has a great platform now.  And is ready to win fourth up.

Bairnsdale – Tuesday 26 July 2022

Wahoo Flyer (Race 1)

Wahoo Flyer was pegged on the line yesterday and it almost looked as though the jockey thought it had won & sat up just slightly towards the finish line. A more aggressive ride through the latter stages should see WAHOO FLYER break it’s maiden next run.

Caulfield – Saturday 23 July 2022

Berkley Square (Race 2)

Impressive debut winner at Geelong.  Resumed off a short break here and after being held up closed off very strongly in fastest 400m/200m closing splits of the meeting.  She looks a coming winner in similar company.

Mrs Chrissie (Race 7)

On speed runner who bolted in on debut at Cranbourne.  Was then spell.  Has copped plenty of pressure in both return runs and has fought on solidly.  Fit now.  Hoping they might head back to a midweek race next start where she will be very hard to beat.

Here To Shock (Race 9)

Plugged away on heavy ground at first two runs back.  Found a firmer track third up on Saturday and bolted in despite being in the worse ground.  Times and margins back to second and third very good.  There is no reason why he can’t win again next start.

Sandown Hillside – Wednesday 20 July 2022

Fire ( Race 5 )

Nothing short of impressive upon returning and has a turn of foot that could see it in some very strong races. Despite the drift it managed to put many lengths on its opposition and is one to follow into the future.

Bifrost ( Race 5 )

Liked it’s chances with form around some Saturday grade gallopers and comes out of the same race as Fire. Sent $21 into $6 and didn’t beat a runner home but pulled up with some physical issues. Where there is smoke, there is fire and often bookmakers will be generous next start when a horse has had issues in the run prior. I expect Bifrost to bounce back in a big way next start, best to pen the run.

Flemington – Saturday 16 July 2022

Interpretation (Race 7)

Interpretation is a European important now with the Maher & Eustace stable.  He drifted in the market suggesting he was going to need the run first up and whilst he never looked a winning chance he was still able to finish off very nicely back towards the inside.    He can be very competitive in a similar race out to 2400m next start.

Nicolini Vito (Race 9)

Progressive son of Niconni who won three times last campaign. He stormed home to win the final race on the program – a benchmark 84 over 1200m. Thought that was an excellent fresh performance considering his pet distance is 1400m and beyond.  He can win again next start off that.

Caulfield – Saturday 9 July 2022

Zipping Boy (Race 2)

Wet track specialist who had been jumping out strongly at Mornington leading into his first up assignment.  Had no favours racing three wide on speed yet still kicked strongly on the turn only to be run down right on the line by the flashing Daralina Belle.  Keen to be on him next time if Jerome Hunter can find another heavy track to run on.

Tavidance (Race 9)

Price & Kent trained six year old gelding who didn’t appear to come up last preparation – had shown very good ability early in his career.  Thought his first up run at Flemington was good, then loved him through the line in this second up effort.  Is ready to peak at the mile next start.

Sandown Lakeside – Wednesday 6 July 2022

Read (Race 1)

Waller debutant who was well supported late in betting.  He was given no chance with how the race was run / track played but I liked the way he finished off in a deep maiden.  His jump outs leading in were good and he is certainly one to keep an eye out for next time.

Flemington – Saturday 2 July 2022

Lunar Flare (Race 8)

First up off a 26 week spell.  She got back and worked home very nicely into fourth position over the mile for apprentice Logan McNeil.  She is yet to win second up but has a very strong third up record so hold tight for one more run before looking to back her.  Think she is in for a good prep!

Caulfield – Saturday 25 June 2022

Squid Game (Race 6)

Lightly raced galloper, Squid Game, trained by Patrick Payne has improved with every run this preparation.  He didn’t appear at all suited dropping back to 1000m on Saturday but really charged through the line once he saw clear daylight.  Now looks primed to win at his next start.

 Pioneer River (Race 7)

Thought it was a pretty solid return for the Ciaron Maher & David Eustace trained Pioneer River.  Despite being pestered all of the way out in front he was still fighting on strongly at the end.  He saves his best racing for the straight at Flemington and can pick up a race there in the near future.

He’s Our Bonneval (Race 9)
Aided by a nice steer, there is plenty of upside about this one. Sat midfield and showed a handy turn of foot when asked. I expect it to measure up in some strong races down the line and is one to keep an eye on.

Flemington – Saturday 18 June 2022

Pascero (Race 5)

Lightly raced three year old who resumed over 1200m in the Creswick.  This was the first time in his brief career he’d seen a distance short of 1400m and I thought he was very good behind three inform gallopers who had fitness on their side.  Times were good.  1400m next start with a run under his belt should bode well.

Ballarat – Tuesday 14 June 2022

Superior Sam (Race 3)
Wanted to lay in a touch today and on a day where leaders were extremely suited at Ballarat he was quite good. Keep an eye on when he returns and gets off the synthetic. The turn of foot is there he is just learning to put it all together and tackled a day where next to nothing made ground at the track.

Flemington – Saturday 4 June 2022

Ghaanati (Race 2)

No prizes for finding this 2 year old daughter of Deep Impact but she simply has to find the black book after her impressive debut performance on Saturday.  She was heavily backed in betting to jump a clear favourite and absolutely powered past her rivals inside the 200m mark to win by 3.75 lengths.  Well up to winning a race like the Group 3 Quezette Stakes at Caulfield at the start of the spring carnival.

Cardinal Gem (Race 7)

Tough tough watch if you followed our best bet of the day in Melbourne.  Jordan Childs was sweating on a run early in the straight and as the gap seemingly opened for Cardinal Gem the horse to his outside layed in resulting in a big check and a loss of momentum.  Thought he rallied really bravely to peg the margin back to 1.05 lengths on the post.  Rock hard fit now and ready to win with better luck in running fourth up.

Sunfall (Race 7)

Mick Price & Michael Kents mare Sunfall has finished off really nicely in her two runs back from a spell.  She looks primed to run well third up stepping out to the mile.

Caulfield – Saturday 28 May 2022

Oceana Blue (Race 3)

The query for Oceana Blue on Saturday was always going to be the drop back to the mile after a super run first up over 1800m at Sandown.  As a result she was just left a little flat footed as they sprinted for home but really picked up the bit late and was only narrowly beaten by the rock hard fit visitor from Adelaide who got up on her inside.  She has a great platform now to win at her next start assuming Peter Moody steps her back up in trip.  A senior rider taking over from the apprentice would be ideal.

Visinari (Race 8)

Unfortunately for Visinari backers on Saturday Hosier was unable to cross to the fence which meant the big grey was left three wide without cover for the duration of the trip.  He still offered a strong kick on the bend before he was eventually reeled in by Sir Davy.  Times and margins suggest this race has gone really well and I expect him to prove very hard to beat with a more economical run in transit the next time we see him at the races.

D’Aguilar (Race 9)

Despite an unfavourable race shape the lightly raced six year old D’Aguilar still found a way to win over the 1400m first up.  He is a real line finder this horse and his win on Saturday improves his career record to five win from seven starts. I expect him to keep progressing through the grades this preparation and I think he is one we can follow with some confidence.

Sandown Lakeside – Sunday 22 May 2022

Jucconi (Race 8)

Lightly raced four year old gelding who is yet to miss the quinella in his six career starts to date.  He has found himself too far back at his last two but has really found the line strongly on both occasions.  He has had four runs this prep and should be rock hard fit now.  Confident he can win at least one more this time in.

Flemington – Saturday 21 May 2022

Treporti (Race 5)

Treporti has come back in super order, running a new peak here first up.  While the three year old gelding was never going to win the race he was taking good late ground off Star Patrol who is almost certainly a group horse in the making.  He clearly has a liking to the straight and I expect the team will pick out a straight race for him in the coming weeks.  Should be hard to beat assuming he doesn’t run into Star Patrol again!

Flemington – Saturday 14 May 2022

Doull (Race 1)

Anthony & Sam Freedman trained debutant who was purchased for $1.2 million at the sales.  He bounced straight to the lead and kicked strongly inside the 400m mark to win the two year old event by 2.75 lengths.  The performance was not only visually impressive – it was also backed up on the clock.  It will be interesting to see whether they press on with another run or give him a break before tackling bigger things in the spring.  Either way, he is in the right camp, and I think he could be a potential Group 1 horse later in the year.

Magnaspin (Race 1)

Another of the debutants – Magnaspin – finished second in the race.  I thought his jump outs leading in were pretty good and he has performed admirably here running the fastest closing sectionals of the event.  Should be very competitive in the right race next start.

Easy Single (Race 9)

Lightly raced four year old gelding trained by Ciaron Maher & David Eustace, and another who had jumped out well leading into his first up assignment.  He was left in front a long way from home when the leaders caved in but was able to fend his rivals off and to my eye was as strong as anything through the line.  Times were again good here.  He handles wet ground and can keep progressing through the grades in the coming months.

Sandown – Saturday 30 April 2022

Vitruvius (Race 9)

Four year old gelding trained by Paul Preusker.  Has always shown plenty of natural ability this horse.  He ran a cracking race first up at Bendigo on April 2 steaming home from the back in fast splits and was good again here running a narrow second. Can handle wet or dry and has a great platform now.  I think we can follow him with some confidence at his next couple of starts.

Flemington – Monday 25 April 2022

I Am Me (Race 2)

Made it three on the bounce in the 1100m benchmark 78.  The time was good here and these are the sort of horses we want to be backing.  Horses that go forward and can quicken.  Jamie Kah mentioned post race that she shy’d at the winning post as well and will only keep getting better.  I see no reason why she can’t win again next start.

Aravene (Race 4)

Progressive filly trained by Caroline Jennings at Flemington.  She had no luck in a maiden at Pakenham last prep before heading to Mornington and busting up the clock in a dominant win.  No luck again here resuming from a spell but really lengthened nicely once clear over the last 200m or so.  Second up at the mile will be perfect for her.

Caulfield – Saturday 23 April 2022

William Thomas (Race 9)

Now under the care of Lindsey Smith.  Was snicked at the start here first up and finished off well under minimal riding.  Had jumped out good prior and I get the feeling this might have been a little barrier trial ahead of second up run in the Wangoom during the Warrnambool Carnival.  Likely to be double figures if it goes there Wednesday week and worth an each way ticket.

Caulfield – Saturday 16 April 2022

Chassis (Race 6)

We added her to the black book after a good first up effort over 1200m in the Hareeba Stakes at Mornington, and she stays in after her run on Saturday.  I didn’t think she was suited here dropping back 100m in trip and considering she got badly unbalanced around the turn did a really good job to pick up and run into second place.  Had the winner not drifted out on the line I think she probably pegs the margin back to under a length.  Has the perfect platform now to be very competitive in anything she runs in next start.

Skyman (Race 8)

Chris Waller gelding who was extremely consistent with out winning last prep.  Super return here over 1400m getting back in the run and really building nicely through the line.  Is in for a great prep based off this.

Sale – Friday 15 April 2022

Lake Tai (Race 1)

Lake Tai is going really well for his new trainer Smiley Chan.  Has just had race shape against in all three runs this preparation including on Friday where he got back and worked home solidly against the bias after being well backed in betting.  Is rock hard fit now and I am confident he has a win in him.

Soobooma (Race 7)

Lightly raced three year old gelding who seems to save his best work for Sale.  He jumped out well before running home in the fastest last 400m and 200m splits of the meeting over 1100m first up.  He will be hard to beat in the right race next start.

Caulfield – Saturday 9 April 2022

Magic Max (Race 6)

It was a tough watch if you were on Magic Max.  He travelled beautifully around the turn but had no where to go.  It wasn’t until well inside the 200m mark that he finally got to the outside of horses and the chance to balance up and let rip.  His last 200m split was the fastest of the day and he has done a really good job to run second under the circumstances.  Only second up here so may be open to further improvement.  Can head back to Adelaide now and pick up a sprint race over their carnival.

Botany (Race 7)

If you go back and have a look at this horses win on debut at Bairnsdale its pretty incredible.  She got back again in the run on Saturday and that resulted in her getting strung up in traffic along the inside.  Once she got clear it took her a little while to build the revs but I really liked her through and after the line.  Clearly some good talent there and a horse I would be keen to back with a senior rider on next start.

Bendigo – Saturday 2 April 2022

It was a messy finish in race two but they have come home in decent splits here and I think there are a couple we can follow:

Our Birdsong (Race 2)

Settled behind the leader in the run and got hopelessly shuffled back as they turned for home.  Looked to have plenty to offer but went to the line virtually untested.  Only beaten 2.6 lengths.  Is ready to run a peak rating for the prep fourth up at his next start.

Vitruvius (Race 2)

A horse I have always had plenty of time for.  Got back and stormed to the line here first up to just miss a race fit Linas Legend.  Ran the fastest last 200m split of the entire meeting and will be well suited up in trip next start.

Duchess Of Dorset (Race 4)

The lightly raced Duchess Of Dorset resumed in a deep benchmark 84 over the 1100m.  After jumping as well as anything jockey Joe Bowditch opted to ease back from the wide gate to ensure he got some cover just forward of midfield.  Unfortunately for Joe & the connections Our Birdsong saw very little day light for most of the Bendigo home straight.  Think he probably wins with even luck.  Something for us to bet on next start in the right race.

Mornington – Saturday 26 March 2022

Quintello (Race 1)

Talented mare with a handy record.  Jumped out very nicely before being smashed in the betting here first up.  She has absolutely demolished the benchmark 70 field by four lengths.  No reason why she can’t keep progressing through the grades and pick up another if not multiples races this preparation.

Typhoon Harmony (Race 4)

Great return from Typhoon Harmony who has gone as good as he can go first up over 1200m here.  Settled midfield and let down strongly only to be collared late by the unbeaten Jump The Broom.  They have run fast time here.  His best performance came at 1600m so he will be much better suited up in trip next time out with the run under the belt.

Chassis (Race 7)

Love targeting these horses with obvious talent who go from lesser name trainers to quality camps like Maher & Eustace.   She was well supported first up in the Hareeba Stakes off the back of some nice jump outs.  Got back in the run and finished off nicely into third place.  Handles all conditions and will be suited getting onto a bigger track next start.  Coming winner.

Flemington – Saturday 19 March 2022

Quite The Lass (Race 4)

Started $101 in the Vobis Gold Reef coming off a solid maiden win at Sale.  Raced in behind the leader in the run and travelled strongly at the top of the straight with no where to go.  Ended up being shuffled all the way back in the field and went to the line untested.  Can drop way back in class to a benchmark 64 or 70 and be awfully hard to beat fourth up.

Mr Brightside (Race 6)

They opted to ride him cold in the All Star Mile after trying to lead on him last start in the Blamey Stakes.  Ended up a long way back but finished off very nicely into fourth place.  He will be much better suited if the team can get him back into a handicap next start. He knows how to win and is ready to peak now.

Flemington – Saturday 12 March 2022

So You See (Race 5)

This daughter of So You Think was having her second race start after walking in on debut at Pakenham.  She was met with strong market support late suggesting she could make the sharp jump in class from maiden grade to Group 2 fillies level.  She got back in the run and had very little luck in the straight as she appeared to be absolutely trucking in behind them.  Only beaten a length and there is a strong case to be made that she should of won.  Think we can follow her with some confidence.

Yearning (Race 5)

Disappointing run but there were legitimate excuses in the steward’s report. I think off the back of the run we might get a good price about Yearning next start and if it can recapture a run like its first up effort it’ll be very hard to beat.

Douceur (Race 9)

The obvious horse to follow out of the last is Daisies but I thought the run of Douceur was a little more hidden.  She was resuming here off a runner up finish in the VRC Oaks over 2500m and went to the line virtually untested in the straight.  She had trialled well leading in and looks set for another good preparation.  May need one more run before we look to back her third up but is definitely a horse to keep an eye on this Autumn.

Flemington – Saturday 5 March 2022

Bermadez (Race 3)

I thought the 1200m would be too sharp for Michael Moroney’s son of Tavistock first up on Saturday but he proved me wrong as he powered over the top of the short price favourite Rose Quartz late in the piece.  Thought that was a super impressive effort at a distance clearly short of his best.  He handles all conditions and I see no reason why he can’t continue to progress through the grades and win again.

Bankers Choice (Race 6)

Keen to add Bankers Choice, another Michael Moroney galloper, to the black book.  The Ex Kiwi tackled an extremely strong Group 2 first up in Australia facing the likes of Zaaki, Inspirational Girl and Mr Brightside who are all Group 1 quality horses and well in commission for the All Star Mile.  He got back off at the slow speed and really hit the line hard taking good ground off said gallopers.  The run of a coming winner!

Express Pass (Race 8)

Word out of the camp leading into Saturday was that Express Pass was back bigger and better than ever.  He was met with some really good support in betting and after settling back in the field stormed home to be beaten just .3 of a length.  Think he is one we can follow with some confidence.

Caulfield – Saturday 26 February 2022

Mo’unga (Race 6)

Last years Winx Stakes winner found himself in a terrible spot in the run first up – back off an average tempo on a leaders bias track.  He made his run wide in the inferior section of the track and was still good enough to run home into second.  Not sure if he stays in Melbourne to run in the All Star Mile or heads back to Sydney to tackle a Group 1 up there but think where ever he goes he is going to be mighty competitive.

Flemington – Saturday 19 February 2022

Forgot You (Race 5)

Forgot You trialled up very strongly before an eye catching return in the CS Hayes Stakes over 1400m.  It was a glorified barrier trial for the son of Savabeel as he drifted back at the start and charged home into fourth running the fastest last 200m of the day in the process.  He showed last prep he has Group 1 talent, and he looks a live chance at $12-1 stepping to the mile in the Group 1 Australian Guineas in a few weeks time.

Mr Brightside (Race 8)

There were some good runs in The Elms Handicap, none more so than the Lindsey Park galloper Mr Brightside.  After progressing through the grades last campaign he was taken back at the start here first up and worked home very strongly into third place.  A lovely resumption.  There is talk he now heads to the Blamey Stakes in a couple of weeks time.  Likely to be very hard to beat if he is to head there before tackling the All Star Mile.

The Garden (Race 9)

On face value The Garden was a touch disappointing given he was so heavily backed in betting ($2.50 to $2.10), however times and margins suggest he may have just ran into a really smart one in Rose Quartz.  Think he is going to be far better suited back around a bend third up.  He is a talented gelding who knows how to win and I think he definitely has a race in him this prep.

Caulfield – Saturday 12 February 2022

Jacquinot (Race 4)

Not much went right for the Blue Diamond favourite in the colts and geldings prelude.  After missing the start he raced in the inferior section of the track and was held up as jockey Damian Lane hunted a run back towards the inside.  He was off a six week break here so this run will no doubt bring him on from a fitness perspective and he will also be much better out to 1200m.  He’s clear top pick with me for the Blue Diamond and I think he represents some value at $5.50 in the futures markets.

 Flying Ascot (Race 9)

Loved the resuming effort of Flying Mascot in the Group 3 Geoffrey Bellmaine Stakes.  She sat off them in the run and really found the line strongly over 1200m and was only collared late by the proven Group 1 performer Probabeel.  This race has rated really well and is a fantastic platform for her to tackle 1400m next start.  Think she is Group 1 quality.

Caulfield – Saturday 5 February 2022

El Patroness (Race 1)

Super first up run from this Danny O’Brien trained filly.  She got back over the 1400m and charged to the line under the big weight.  She has some class about her having won the Super Impose last spring before running second in the Group 3 Norman Robinson.  She is one to follow towards races like the Australian Guineas & ATC Oaks.

The Garden (Race 8)

The Garden resumed in race eight over the 1100m.  They went out very slow in this and really zipped home in some sharp closing sectionals.  Think this is a lovely platform run for him getting out to 1200m and beyond in his coming runs.  He has some real upside this horse and it won’t be long until we see him back in the winners enclosure.

Threeandfourpence & Pale King (Race 9)

There are two horses we can follow out of race nine – a benchmark 78 over 1600m.

Threeandfourpence

There was a little bit of money around for Threeandfourpence here second up.  After being held up on the turn he picked his way through the field nicely to run second.  Typically Cliff Brown horses need a few runs under their belt before they start to fire which I think bodes well for this horse next start.

Pale King

Was first up off 22 weeks.  Like Threeandfourpence he got back in the field and was starting to track into the race really nicely before being shut out when trying to take a gap at the 200m mark.  Fred Kersley practically stopped riding for 50m and it looked like he would go to the line eased down but he really started to pick up the bit again the last 50m.  Could make a decent case that he should of won the race with even luck.  One to keep an eye on.

Caulfield – Saturday 29 January 2022

Ayahuasca (Race 8)

Super return by this four year old mare from the Price & Kent Jnr yard.  She drifted back at the start then made her run very wide on the track as they turned for home.  She showed an electronic turn of foot to level up with the heavily backed Yonce with 50m to go.  However that mare lifted late to kick back and win narrowly.  Perhaps Ayahuasca just felt the pinch late but it was a great first up run none the less.  Look for her in suitable race second up.

Sinawann (Race 7)

Resumed in the feature race on the program – the Group 2 Australia Stakes.  Lovely effort to settle midfield in the run and work home into second place out wide on the track.  That’s a good platform stepping to 1400m second up.  Also think he will be much better suited getting to a bigger track such as Caulfield or Flemington.

Moonee Valley – Saturday 22 January 2022

Duchy Of Savoy (Race 1)

Filly who normally likes to sit right up on speed in her races.  Completely blew her chances by missing the start and getting back in the field while the favourite sat outside a slow tempo.  Throughout the middle stages she was inclined to over race but was still able to finish off into a clear second.  She is no world beater but can win again over 1000m round The Valley or in a mid week race somewhere.

Sharp Response (Race 6)

We added this three year old gelding to the black book after an excellent first up run at Flemington and he stays in after another cracking effort on Saturday.  He was completely un done by race shape in this, getting too far back as two fit on speed horses clapped the pace on and got him chasing a long way from home.  He has done a terrific job to close the gap to within 1.6 lengths.  Is going to be awfully hard to beat third up.

Flemington – Saturday 15 January 2022

Umgawa (Race 2)

Umgawa let down like the winner 200m from home before the inform Maher & Eustace mare Decent Raine fended her challenge off.  They’ve run good time here and I wonder whether she was just running on empty late at only her second run back from a spell.  Despite this she still beat the rest of them easily and she now looks ready to win third up.

Toff Choice (Race 6)

Have liked what this son of Toorak Toff has done at both his runs this time in.  He ran home strongly first up over 1200m and appeared to have something left to offer before running out of room late over the seven furlongs on Saturday.  Three of his four wins have come at the mile and he has the perfect platform to tackle that distance at his next start.

Turaath (Race 7)

A Group 2 winner last prep, this mare trained by Maddie Raymond looks to have come back in super order.  First up over 1200m against some quality sprinters was never going to be her go, but I like the way she stuck to her task to be beaten just over 1.5 lengths.  She is going to be hard to beat if they can find a 1400m MARES race for her second or third up.

Caulfield – Saturday 8 January 2022

Jewellery (Race 1)

Think this Godolphin debutant might end up in a few black books after her effort in race 1.  She was snagged back to last from an outside gate, to ensure cover after jumping with them, then rushed home into second running some impressive late sectionals.  The winner who had a great run up on speed had jumped out well leading in so I think this will be a solid form race and it will be no surprise to see this filly measure up in some of next months lead up races to the Group 1 Blue Diamond!

Gabeira (Race 4)

Waller galloper who resumed and chased two talented in form horses in the 1100m three & four year old sprint race.  Thought her effort to finish third was very encouraging for a mare who will be much better suited at 1200m and beyond.  She’s only had the seven starts so expecting we see her go to a new level this time in.

Flemington – Saturday 11 December 2021

Bermadez (Race 6)

The Michael Moroney gelding Bermadez brought some strong form lines into the 1400m benchmark 84 event on Saturday and was very solid in the market behind race favourite Lighthouse.  He lobbed outside lead in the run while Lighthouse got the perfect tag on his back and that horse was eventually able to run him down with 100m to go.  Thought he was very brave in defeat to a very talented horse.  He can win again this prep.

Parsifal (Race 7)

Thought the seven year old South Australian gelding Parsifal’s second in the Listed Kensington Stakes had plenty of merit.  Coming back from a fast run 1200m event in Adelaide, he settled midfield inside of runners which appeared to be the inferior ground in the straight races and ran home strongly into second.  Only third up on Saturday so should have something left in the tank if the stable can place him in the right race next time out.

Pakenham – Saturday 4 December 2021

Holbien (Race 5)

 The first horse I want to follow out of the Pakenham Cup meeting is the Steve Richards trained Holbien.  He ran them a long at a good clip out in front and offered a good kick, only to be collared late by the even money favourite Frankie Pinot who has been racing in good form.  Holbien was the only LEADER all day to feature in the finish and is now rock hard fit and ready to win fifth up.

Royal Order (Race 9)

 The second horse to follow is the Michael Kent trained Royal Order.  There was some good market support late for this eight year old son of Commands who made his run down the outside with the eventual race winner The Awesome Son who reeled in the well supported Lindsey Smith galloper Kissinger.  Think he now has an excellent platform with 2 x 1600m runs and a 2000m run under the belt to peak fourth up over 2000m.

Caulfield – Saturday 27 November 2021

Ebhaar (Race 1)

This was the race which Anamoe (Caulfield Guineas winner and Cox Plate runner up) broke his maiden in last year.  It remains to be seen whether the winner Ebhaar will reach those lofty heights but she certainly looks to have some quality about her.  Off the back of a good trial she sat outside lead in the run.  When the Maher & Eustace horse Boldinho loomed up to her at the 150m she was really able to find strongly and was very soft on the line to win by ¾ of a length with a big gap back to third.  It wouldn’t surprise if we were talking about her as a leading contender in the Group 1 Blue Diamond come next February!

Sinawann (Race 9)

Ex European galloper Sinawann improved sharply on Saturday at his second Australian start to win the Group 3 Kevin Heffernan Stakes over 1400m.  He beat some quality race fit horses here in I Am Superman and the dual Group 1 winner Streets Of Avalon and will no doubt be even better once he gets to the mile.  They ran strong time and it wouldn’t shock to see him come back in the Autumn and be extremely competitive in some Group 1 Mile races.

Ballarat – Saturday 20 November 2021

Way To Go Paula (Race 4)

Way To Go Paula is a four year old mare trained by Phillip Stokes.  She was a big improver here second up after striking a wet track at Moe at her first run back from the spelling paddock.  Staying at 1200m on Saturday she settled a clear last but went onto let down really strongly in the straight – charging home into second place behind race favourite Duchess Of Dorset which had the perfect run one out and one back.  She is placed at listed level over 1400m and looks ready to tackle a race over that distance third up.

Kissinger (Race 7)

Like the way this talented son of Tavistock has returned.  He has hit the line hard in all three of his runs back.  On Saturday he was held up at a key stage but was starting to build the revs through the line which was the best part of his race.  Is out to his right trip now and ready to run a peak rating fourth up – should be very hard to beat if placed right.

Flemington Carnival – Saturday 30 October 2021 to Saturday 6 November

Fifth Position (Race 4 – Oaks Day)

Mick Price and Michael Kent Jnr galloper who showed some good signs through the winter in his first Australian preparation.  Looks to have come back an even better horse this time in and was desperately unlucky in the benchmark 90 on Oaks Day.  Should be very hard to beat in the right race third up at 2000m next start.

Lunatic Fringe (Race 3 – Stakes Day)

Lunatic Fringe is a five year old staying mare trained by Tom Dabernig at Warrnambool.  She resumed off a short break with a narrow win on her home track, then chased home the talented Alcyone strongly into second over 2000m on the final day of the carnival.  This is likely to be good form race moving forward with solid closing splits and a good gap back to the third placed horse.

Horses to follow for the Autumn…

Hitotsu (Race 6 – Derby Day)

The VRC Derby hasn’t always proven to be the strongest form race in recent memory, but I think we can follow this years winner with confidence.  The performance to come from last on the turn and win running away was outstanding, even more so considering he was jumping from 1600m to 2500m.  Races such as the Australian Guineas, Rosehill Guineas, Randwick Guineas and ATC Derby are all likely to be on the radar for him in the Autumn.

Espiona (Race 5 – Oaks Day)

No prizes for finding this galloper but she simply must be added to the Black Book.  Her six length win on Oaks day was absolutely superb to the eye and equally impressive on the clock!  Suspect they head to the paddock with her now but she is capable of winning anything she runs in when she returns in the Autumn!

Moonee Valley – Saturday 23 October 2021

Starry Legend (Race 2)

Coming off an impressive 1.25 length victory at Mornington most if not all would have had this son of Zoustar finding the front pretty easily in the 1000m scamper on Saturday.  Instead he half missed the start and then had to dig up and became part of a four way speed dual.  Still he offered a big kick for home on the bend as the others dropped off around him but was left a sitting shot over the concluding stages as Dexelation and Mossman Gorge who had, had much softer runs in transit reeled him in.  Thought the effort had plenty of merit and I think if he can jump cleanly and find the front next time out should be very hard to beat in a similar event.

Floating Artist (Race 8)

I think connections of Floating Artist can consider themselves pretty unlucky not to have collected a first prize cheque in at least one of his last two starts.  Two back they opted to go way to slow on him in front which is not his go – he is a one pacer who needs to build his revs from a long way out.  On Saturday, he was badly held up on the inside of runners and after getting in a bumping dual on the turn was forced back to the inside, then charged to the line to just miss.  He is absolutely airborne and is going to mighty hard to beat where ever they opt to head with him next.

Caulfield – Saturday 16 October 2021

Prince Alexander (Race 3)

Prince Alexander is a three year old son of Animal Kingdom trained by Archie Alexander and he dropped back from 1600m to 1400m to run in the Gothic Stakes on Saturday.  He settled last of nine in a fast run race and charged to the line to narrowly miss Extreme Flight with a sizeable gap of six lengths back to the third placed horse Sandy Prince.  Think he is ready to peak now fourth up and could be suited in a race like the Carbine Club Stakes which is run on Derby Day.

Never Talk (Race 8)

Despite the better going being away from the fence it was very hard for backmarkers to make ground especially late in the day which I think gives this mares performance plenty of merit.  She was near enough to last as they turned for home, then peeled off the fastest last 200m, 400m & 600m sectionals of the day to finish third coming off a five week break.  This is a great platform for her to run really well next start but the key to her is rain affected going.  Keen to back her if they can find a wet track over 1100m next time out!

Caulfield – Saturday 9 October 2021

Nudge (Race 7)

The runner up in this years Group 1 Tatt’s Tiara resumed over 1200m in the Northwood Plume Stakes.  As we are a custom to seeing with her, she drifted back at the start and ended up settling towards the rear of the field in a slowly run race.  She was left a little flat footed as the leader, La Mexicana, started to build the revs at the 600m but once balanced peeled off some slick sectionals to finish a close up third.  This looks a lovely platform for her to tackle some of the big mares races towards the back end of the spring.

Victorian Derby hopefuls

Last week we identified three horses you can follow heading towards the Melbourne Cup.  This week there’s two we can follow out of a high rating Caulfield Guineas who I think have claims to be first and second pick in the Victorian Derby.

Hitotsu (Race 8)

Hitotsu took a huge step up in class from winning Donald maiden and I thought he was terrific finishing fifth in a fast run race at just his second start of the preparation.  We saw what the Maher & Eustace stable did winning three Derby’s with Explosive Jack earlier in the year and I think they have a terrific chance to win another here with this son of Maurice.

Forgot You (Race 8)

Forgot You who wears the same colours as Hitotsu ran home well into sixth having his third consecutive start the mile (he won his two prior).  Gives every indication that he is looking for a staying trip now.  I don’t think there is much between him and Hitotsu.

Flemington – Saturday 2 October 2021

Mystic Journey (Race 6)

Mystic Journey showed signs first up she could be getting back to somewhere near her Group 1 winning best, and those signs were confirmed on Saturday.  She spotted the leaders – who ran a long at a genuine tempo – a big margin on the turn, then rattled off the fastest last 600/400/200m of the entire meeting to close into third beaten less than a length on the line.   Her performance really stood out, because outside of her the race pretty much held its formation.  She is ready to peak third up in the Group 1 Empire Rose on Derby Day!

Stalking (Race 3)

Race three was a 1610m Group 2 for the three year old fillies and the horse I want to take out of it is Stalking.  She was trying the mile for the first time coming off an eight week let up, and after settling worse than midfield really charged to the line to run fourth.  She looks a real staying type of filly that could be on her way to an Oaks.  I wouldn’t be surprised if she had another start in a race like the Wakeful before then where she will be very competitive at 2000m with fitness under her belt.

Melbourne Cup hopefuls

I also wanted to highlight three horses who could be potential betting options (either in futures markets or on the day) heading towards a Melbourne Cup.  Two ran in the Turnbull and one in The Bart Cummings.

Young Werther (Race 7)

We mentioned him after a good first up run over 1700m on September 11, but he went to a whole new level in the Turnbull.  After settling in a great spot in midfield he loomed like the winner, before the super star Incentivise appeared to see him coming and found another gear to hold him off.  He goes to the Caulfield Cup now where he will be a live each way chance but I think he may have even more of a chance in a Melbourne Cup.

Explosive Jack (Race 7)

The horse that won three Derby’s earlier in the year has returned super.  He hit the line very strongly first up over the mile and again on Saturday at the mile and a quarter.  Great signs for a horse that is a genuine 2400m+ animal and we know how good the Maher & Eustace stable are once they get their runners out over a trip!

Realm Of Flowers (Race 8)

Has already secured her place in the Melbourne Cup by winning the Andrew Ramsden here earlier in the year.  After finishing towards the rear of the field first and second up she improved big time out to the 2520m.  She was a real eye catcher closing strongly from the back to finish sixth.  She is right on target for the first Tuesday in November.

Moonee Valley – Friday 24 September 2021

Curran (Race 5)

Is a progressive four year old son of Night Of Thunder who made his debut earlier this year.  He has been quick to build a strong record with four wins and three seconds and the market wanted to be with him first up over the 955m on Friday night.  He was tardy away but quickly mustered early in his race to settle in fifth.  From there he travelled beautifully for Matthew Cartwright and when he produced him at the top of the straight, the gelding lengthened very strongly peeling off a 11.21 final 200m to reel in Yulong Command.  I think he can win a Group 2/3 over 1000m-1200m before the spring is over.

Only Words (Race 8)

Chris Waller mare who won the Group 2 The Roses at Doomben on May 22.  She was second up here after a luckless resuming run at Flemington in The Let’s Elope.  The market really latched onto her in this.  Better than $8 bet during the week – she jumped $4.6.  Again badly held up after finding a good spot forward of midfield.  She absolutely rocked to the line once clear over the concluding stages.  Beaten 1.7 lengths but she was a length in front 50m past the post.  She is bursting to win a race third up.

Caulfield – Saturday 18 September 2021

Just Folk (Race 1)

Five year old gelding who has four wins and two placings from twelve starts.  He returned from a short break in the opening race on Saturday.  After settling back in the field he had a very checkered passage all the way up the home running.  Despite this and the fact he was racing over an unsuitable distance he closed strongly to finish within a length of the winner.  A cracking return.  He will be a force to reckoned with at 1400m next time.

Ocean Beyond (Race 2)

Began his career with a bang, winning impressively at Geelong on debut before going onto win at listed level at start two.  Things did not go to plan last preparation finishing unplaced in both Autumn runs.  On Saturday, he was badly held up until the concluding stages but when the gap finally opened late he shot through into fourth in an eye catching performance.  A race around Moonee Valley second up could be perfect for him.

Tralee Rose (Race 7)

Simon Wildes staying mare Tralee Rose was heavily backed again on Saturday.  She settled in a similar position to first up, behind lead and was building nicely on the turn but as Craig Williams attempted to push out from under Knights Order the small gap which had appeared closed and he was pushed back onto the fence and forced to make his run up the inside.  This was clearly the inferior ground later on in the day and therefor I think her effort to grab third is full of merit.  Think they are likely to head to a Bart Cummings with her now (winner gain entry into the Melbourne Cup). 

Flemington – Saturday 11 September 2021

Explosive Jack & Colette (Race 8)

There were a number of good runs in the Group 1 Makybe Diva Stakes and I think it’s a race we can follow with some confidence moving forward.  Outside of the obvious – the winner Incentivise who will be hard to beat anywhere he goes – I am keen to follow:

Explosive Jack – four year old gelding who won the Tasmanian, Australian and South Australian Derby earlier in the year.  He settled back in the field, then continued to hug the rail as they fanned turning from home.  Like the winner, the further they went the stronger he got.  A terrific first up effort from an out and out stayer resuming at 1600m.  Will be a force to reckon with in the big staying races this spring.

Colette – classy middle distance mare from the Godolphin operation.  She backed up a good first up sixth in the Memsie Stakes with another good run here.  Peeling off the fastest last 200m sectional of the race.  She is ready to peak third up and will be extremely hard to beat if they can find a rain affected track for her to run on.

Defibrillate & Young Werther (Race 9)

The last race on the card was a 1700m open handicap and it too produced several good runs.  I’m keen to follow two horses in particular:

Defibrillate – is typically a big improver second up and that’s exactly what transpired on Saturday.  He was positioned three pairs back along the fence in the run and Billy Egan just had to bide his time and wait for the gaps to open.  Once they did, he lengthened strongly to grab second.  Is now ready to win third up at 2000m.

Young Werther – highly talented gelding who started a warm favourite in last years Victorian Derby.  Like Defibrillate, he had a chequered passage for most of his resuming run but got going late – a nice spring pipe opener.  Look for him once he stretches out to 2000m & beyond.

Moonee Valley – Saturday 4 September 2021

Barade (Race 4)

We made this seven year old gelding trained by Archie Alexander a black booker after a cracking first up run over the mile.  Despite being unwanted in the betting on Saturday he again was strong to line behind Degraves in a high rating open handicap.  He is going really really well and is ready to win third up at 2400m.

Mac ‘N’ Cheese (Race 6)

Mac ‘N’ Cheese returned from a seven week let up in the Listed Atlantic Jewel Stakes.  Her trainer Tony McEvoy suggested leading in that Moonee Valley and 1200m were perhaps not her go and that’s how it turned out.  She has a big stride on her and needs to wind up and she just ended up in an awful spot back in the ruck on the turn.  I thought her last 200m, once she was balanced, was very strong and she will be suited stepping to 1400m at Flemington/Caulfield second up.

Djukon (Race 9)

There was a sneaky go at big odds for this Chris Waller stayer resuming in the last.  He settled three back the fence in the run on the back of the eventual winner Don’t Doubt Dory.  Upon turning for home Damian Thornton opted to pop off the fence in an attempt to get his galloper – who was travelling very strongly – into clear air.  Unfortunately for Djukon backers the lift doors shut and he went to the line virtually untested.  An unlucky but very promising return.  Look for him up in trip next start.

Caulfield – Saturday 28 August 2021

Annavisto (Race 3)

This four year old daughter of Reliable Man was presented first up in the 1400m mares race.   She settled in a lovely position and worked to the line strongly behind an informed Turaath.  There is an argument to be made she may have won the race if she didn’t lay in over the concluding stages but regardless I think connections will have been very pleased with her return.  It gives her a lovely platform to tackle some of the black type mares races during the spring.

Atorius (Race 4)

If you backed Artorius on Saturday I think you can count yourself pretty stiff not to collect.  Race shape and track bias gave him a herculean task on the bend and yet another stride or two and he wins the race.   He looks every bit a Caulfield Guineas horse and if he gets there in one piece they are going to have a tough time beating him.

Beau Rossa (Race 8)

Full credit to Brett Prebble for his ride on Behemoth which won the race but the horse I want to take out of the event is the four-year-old Beau Rossa.   After settling in the box seat he was held up on the turn which gave Prebble and Behemoth the chance to catch a race winning break on him.  Once he was able to get clear he lengthened powerfully and was taking strong ground off Behemoth over the last 100m – another stride or two and he wins the race.  This looks the perfect lead up run for the Group 1 Sir Rupert Clark Stakes in three weeks time where he will drop considerably in the weights.  If he can reproduce that run will take a power of beating.

Moonee Valley – Saturday 21 August 2021

Shot Of Irish (Race 9)

All three of Shot Of Irish’s runs this time in have been excellent.  He tagged a really strong speed on Saturday and after being restrained for the first part of the race appeared to be going backwards on the turn, however somewhat amazingly was able to pick up again to run third.  A win is right around the corner, especially if the stable can find him a slow or heavy track, he excels in wet conditions!

Caulfield – Saturday 14 August 2021

Barade (Race 2)

Stayer resuming from the Archie Alexander yard and probably the horse I’m most keenest to follow out of the meeting.  He jumped out well leading in to what I thought was a terrific first up run.  He was back last on the turn and made up very good ground along the inside to finish second which was a great effort for a horse who does his best racing over 2000m+. And if you watch him 50m past the post he’s more than a length in front which is always a good sign.  He has a nice race in him this prep.

Elephant (Race 5)

 Former Kiwi galloper who kept his unbeaten record alive first up in the benchmark 84 over 1400m.  I loved the way he accelerated away when Damian Lane produced him at the top of the straight and he looked to win with something in hand.  Destined for bigger and better things!

Nonconformist (Race 8)

Talented five year old who had absolutely no luck in the feature.  If you were on him I think you knew your fate a long way from home.  He was always travelling but was badly strung up in between horses and never got a clear crack at them.  Despite this he has still reeled off strong late splits and can make his presence felt up in trip next start.

Flemington – Saturday 7 August 2021

Killourney (Race 1)

Ex European galloper who was stepping sharply in trip from 1600m to 2500m second up.  He was able to make up significant ground along the rail in a race suited to the on pacers. An outstanding run especially considering parade watchers suggested he paraded well below his best.  Looks a coming winner.

Oxley Road (Race 5)

This lightly raced entire trained by Peter Moodie at Pakenham resumed in the benchmark 84 over 1100m.  He bowled along out in front and looked the winner for a long way before Miss Albania with the fitness edge reeled him in late.  A lovely first up run and I expect we will see him back in the winners stall soon.

Secret Blaze (Race 8)

His two runs back over 1200m have been excellent for a horse that does his best racing over further.  He flashed home from the back in the Bletchingly first up at Caulfield then was as strong as any horse through the line in the feature on Saturday when staying at 1200m.  Look for him rising in distance third and fourth up.

Moonee Valley – Saturday 31 July 2021

La Rocque (Race 2)

 A great return to the races from this previously unbeaten filly trained by John McCardle.  She made up substantial ground from the back to finish less than two lengths from the winner which wasn’t something that was easy to do on the day.  Interesting to note that Jamie Mott who would of likely had the pick of the rides on the stable mates chose to ride the other one (Tycoon Humma).  Perhaps an indication that the camp thought 1000m was too short for La Rocque.  Keen to follow out to 1200m next start!

Tuvalu (Race 5)

 Tuvalu stays in the black book after a terrific second up effort.  Once again he finished second to I’m Thunderstruck but he was able to reduce the margin from four lengths first up, to just half a length on Saturday with the extra fitness on his side and there was a massive gap back to third which is always a good sign.  They’ve busted the clock here and if he can find a race without I’m Thunderstruck third up he should be able to notch up win number three.

Rock In The Park (Race 9)

 Rock In The Park reeled off some big late splits to win first up at Sandown.  He ran well again on Saturday but had a few things against.  He was ridden up at the start to find a spot and may have been flat staying at the 1200m.  Think he is capable of winning again out to 1400m next start especially if he finds a heavy track.

Caulfield – Saturday 24 July 2021

Pounding (Race 3)

Pounding is still a maiden but I doubt he will be for much longer.  He hit the line well first up at Sale over 1100m, then sat outside a fast lead speed on Saturday and kept battling to finish fourth, beaten less than two lengths.  A great effort considering it was imperative horses found cover (from the howling Northerly wind) in the run at Caulfield on Saturday.  I suspect he will be even better over a mile and now has a great platform to win a race over that distance third up.

The Garden (Race 7)

Craig Williams had no luck on The Garden who was heavily backed following a high rating first up maiden win at Geelong.  He was stuck out three and four wide on a limb and to make matters worse he was inclined to over race in the run.  He kept fighting to finish third – all things considered a great effort at only start number three.  It won’t shock to see him in the winners stall again in the not too distant future.

Diamonds Inthe Sky (Race 9)

Diamonds Inthe Sky jumped a $26 chance in the final race on the card.  Craig Newitt ran them along out in front and like Pounding I thought this daughter of Zoustar did a great job to stick on into fifth.  The talented Zou Dancer, who had jumped out very well leading in had the dream run on her back and was only able to just get past her in the straight which gives further merit to the performance.  Keen to back her against her own age group around Caulfield or Moonee Valley in the coming weeks.

Flemington – Saturday 17 July 2021

Tuvalu (Race 2)

The talented Tuvalu resumed in race two.  He was no match for the winner – I’m Thunderstruck – who is destined for group racing (maybe Group 1) however this was a good first up effort.  He settled behind the leader and after being held up for the early part of the straight kept coming to finish second.  The market drift suggested he may have needed the run first up which gives additional merit to his performance.  In for a good prep!

Changing Tracks (Race 3)

Changing Tracks has found herself a long long way back in both runs this campaign and on both occasions has hit the line very strongly.  She finished seventh on Saturday but her best work was through the line and had the race been another 50m she may have finished in the top four.  She is eligible for easier races and if she can settle a pair or two closer in the run should be very hard to beat third up.

The Awesome Son (Race 9)

Trainer Julius Sandhu thought enough of this three year old gelding to bring him to town after a strong third in a Bendigo maiden on debut.  He found the right section of the track but I loved the way he worked home to be beaten less than two lengths in a very competitive three year old handicap.  He won’t be a maiden for much longer.

Ballarat – Sunday 11 July 2021

Italian Poet (Race 1)

Lightly raced two year old gelding trained by Mathew Ellerton & Simon Zahra at Flemington.  He worked home well first up at Geelong over 1100m, then was badly held up on Sunday before flying home to finish fourth. Look for him to win a maiden third up.

Stripped Back (Race 6)

Three year old gelding who was an impressive debut winner at Ararat back in January.  He resumed in a Class 1 on Sunday where he was heavily fancied in the betting and kicked strongly before being collared late by the talented and race fit Douceur.  This looks strong form moving forward and he will be very hard to beat in similar grade next time.

Caulfield – Saturday 10 July 2021

Tan Check (Race 7)

This six year old gelding has finished in the top four at all four starts this preparation.  He hit the front with 100m to go on Saturday and looked the winner in the strong benchmark 84 over 1700m – only to be collared late by the inform Scottish Dancer.  He is a very honest customer and is ready to win another race

Flemington – Saturday 3 July 2021

Lowanna Magic (Race 8)

Lowanna Magic’s last two runs have been full of merit.  She was a good second in a strong benchmark 78 at Swan Hill during their carnival, then rose sharply in grade to listed level on Saturday and kept coming to finish fourth in the All Victorian Sprint Series Final.  She is absolutely flying – and is ready to win.

Lindhout (Race 9)

Lindhout is a lightly raced filly with plenty of talent.  She spotted the leader Galgani – who offered a good kick off the turn – a big start in the final race on the card but was able to use her big turn of foot to real that horse in and win running away by two lengths.  She was home in the fastest last 400m and 200m of the day and I think she can reach Stakes level in time.

Flemington – Saturday 19 June 2021

Galgani  (Race 4)

Galgani has gone to a new level this preparation.  She won a strong benchmark 64 at Sandown first up, then on Saturday sat three wide on a hot speed and boxed on really strongly to finish third in a race which favoured the swoopers.  She should still have some improvement to come and looks capable of notching up another win this preparation.

Think ‘n’ Fly (Race 5)

Consistent miler trained by the Lindsey Park operation.  He was good first up at Caulfield and very strong through the line on Saturday when second to the import Degreaves – looks a strong form race given the time and the gap back to the third.  He is unbeaten third up in two previous attempts and he looks primed to make it three from three over the mile in a similar race next time out.

Sandown Hillside – Saturday 12 June 2021

Barbies Fox (Race 4)

Barbies Fox resumed in race four – the mares benchmark 78 over 1300m – where she produced a huge turn of foot to come from last on the turn to finish third.  A super effort given there was a clear advantage to those horses racing up on speed on Saturday.  Keen to back her on rain affected ground again next start.

Bedford (Race 5)

This seven year old gelding is absolutely flying this prep.  He ran fifth first up at Warrnambool, then closed strongly at Caulfield when running third.  He stormed home again on Saturday to finish second.  Had the track of been fair I have no doubt he would of won comfortably.  Has the hoof on the till.

Flemington – Saturday 5 June 2021

Snickerdoodledandy (Race 2)

Really liked the win of Snickerdoodledandy who was third up with Jamie Kah in the saddle for the first time.  She settled at the rear of the field and has peeled off some excellent late splits to reel in Witchfulthinking, who was perfectly rated by Patrick Moloney out in front.   She looks to have something left in the tank, and given Peter Moody hinted pre race that her grand final was still to come I am expecting her to peak fourth up over the mile.

Argentia (Race 4)

The two year old race on the card looked a strong one leading in.  Black Caviars foal Invincible Caviar was having its first start plus a couple of horses had run well on debut at Geelong.  However it was another first starter – Argentina for the Freedmans – who stole the show.  She travelled beautifully in the run for Mark Zahra and once produced she let down like a really really nice horse.  The performance was backed up on the clock as she delivered the fastest last 200m split of the entire meeting.  The daughter of Frankel may head to the paddock now but look for her to come back and win a really nice three year-old race i.e. the Thousand Guineas in the spring.

Maserartie Bay (Race 9)

We made her a black booker after last start and she stays in the black book following her run on Saturday.  She sat three wide the trip and kept fighting to be beaten less than a length in a likely strong form race.  We know how good Maher and Eustace horses are when they reach 2000m + and with the platform she now has she looks a coming winner.  A senior jockey on next start will only add to her chances.

Caulfield – Saturday 29 May 2021

All About Eve (Race 1)

Two year old filly trained by Andrew Noblet at Ballarat.  She came from the rear to win strongly at Bendigo on debut.  On Saturday, she was able to settle closer in the run from an inside gate but was badly held up until well into the straight.  Once clear she flashed to run second – should of won!

Continuance (Race 2)

Continuance won well leading all the way at Warrnambool first up.  At her last two she has settled too far back but has still hit the line strongly indicating she is holding her form well.  If she can draw a gate next time, she can settle closer to the speed and give herself a better opportunity to notch up win number two of the campaign.

Adelaide Ace (Race 5)

Classy galloper who won the Group 2 Autumn Stakes as a three year old.  He had a throat operation leading into this preparation and it appears to have been a success.  He was left a little flat footed when they sprinted for home on Saturday before finishing his race off strongly to run second.  Ready for the mile third up.

Flemington – Saturday 22 May 2021

Heart Of Puissance (Race 4)

Heart Of Puissance made amends for a desperately unlucky run in the Warrnambool Cup with a dominant 3.25 length win on Saturday.  He lobbed in a lovely spot in the run, midfield, off a generous tempo and the race was virtually over on the turn as he cruised up to the leaders under a hold.  The stable has made no secrets the ability they think he has.  May be bound for the paddock now but look for him to win a really nice staying event in the spring.

Maserartie Bay & Zachaz (Race 9)

Both of these trained by Maher and Eustace and both were second up here in a fast run 1800m race.  Maserartie Bay finished second after getting a lovely cart into the race out wide on the track, another 50m and he would of won.  Zachaz was back to the inside, in the inferior section of the track and has got within a length of the winner which was a great effort.  Both are genuine 2000m + horses and they now have a great platform to tackle the mile and a quarter third up!

Flemington – Saturday 15 May 2021

Excelida  (Race 5)

Excelida doesn’t win out of turn but she appears to have returned in good order.  She settled last in a slowly run benchmark 84 and was able to hit the line strongly to finish third peeling off the equal fastest last 200m of the day.  She saves her best racing for second up (3-2-1-0) and can notch up her fourth win in the right race next time out.

Yulong January (Race 8)

Yulong January used two good fitness building runs at Caulfield and Sandown to sit outside a genuine speed and kick clear to win by 1.25 lengths in the 1400m open handicap.  His win rated well and I like that there were good margins back to second, third and fourth.  He has shown in the past that once he hits form he is capable of stringing more than one win together and with possibly some further improvement to come fourth up can win again.

Pearl Bandit (Race 9)

Adelaide visitor who has been unsuited by being cluttered up inside of horses at her last two starts.  On both occasions she has only seen clear air well into the home straight, which is not her go, she needs time to wind up.  She is going really well and looks a coming winner provided she gets the right set up.  A spacious track (Flemington or Morphettville) and drawn in the outside half of the field.

Caulfield – Saturday 8 May 2021

Generation (Race 1)

Generation, from the all-conquering Maher and Eustace barn notched up win number two on Saturday and remains unbeaten.  He settled outside the lead and showed an outstanding turn of foot to accelerate away from Spinning who had previously ran well behind the smart Gimme Par on debut.  Suspect they might put him away now and come back and target some of the big three year old races in the spring.

Tan Tat Harmony (Race 4)

Very good return from this progressive Phillip Stokes galloper who has won three of his seven starts.  He was cluttered up in midfield turning for home but reeled off some good late splits to finish second.  Most of the others had a fitness edge on him which adds further merit to his run.  He is in for a good campaign.

Blazejowski (Race 6)

The big grey Blazejowski resumed off a short break in the 1100m open handicap.  He was out the back and very unsuited by a slow tempo but was still able to charge through into third.  He had trialled up well at Cranbourne prior and looks ready to win second up.

Warrnambool – Wednesday 5 May 2021 (Day 2 of the Carnival)

McKeever (Race 5)

 McKeever is a really nice three year old in the making.  He ran second to the talented Continuance who with the advantage of the fence was able to kick again late after this gelding made up many lengths on her from the back.  Prior he was very good breaking his maiden when wide with no cover at Bendigo.  Not sure if they carry on now or put him away until the spring but he is one we can follow with confidence.

 Riding The Wave (Race 8)

 This five year old son of Malibu Moon never ever saw day light in the Wangoom Handicap.  Fresh from a let up Dean Yendall had a lap full of horse but no where to go and he has virtually gone to the line untested.  With the winners run he probably wins the race.  Assuming they press on with him now I think he can pick up an off season sprint race or two over the Melbourne winter carnival.

 Tadashi Hamada (Race 9)

 Lightly raced galloper trained by Shea Eden at Cranbourne.  He was an eye catcher first up at Geelong, then just got too far back in the benchmark 70 over 1400m on day two.  He was doing his best work late and is ready to win now.

Warrnambool – Tuesday 4 May 2021 (Day 1 of the Carnival)

Fifth Position (Race 8)

 This former import having his first run on Australian soil was heavily backed in the 1700m open handicap on day one.  His effort to finish third was very good considering he sat off the fence on a day where rails in run was a major advantage.  I really liked his last 50m – he will be suited up in trip next start.

 La Vina ( Race 9)

 This Lindsey Smith mare sat three wide the trip and sprinted away to win very softly on the line.  She was 86 days between runs and mounting yard watches were suggesting she did a few things wrong which gives even more merit to her performance.  Her win prior at Ballarat was also very impressive.  She looks a real talent.  Mare in form!

 Sacred Palace (Race 10)

 Another import, this time from the Lindsey Smith yard, who was heavily backed.  He settled in a really tricky spot back in the field and was badly held up until the final 200m.  Once the gap appeared he was able to burst through and finish fourth.  With even luck and a fair track he would of won easily.  One to follow.

Flemington – Sunday 25 April 2021

Zaydani (Race 2)

Loved the run from Zaydani in the benchmark 84 for the fillies and mares.  She settled well back on the rail and was completely unsuited by the slow tempo but still managed to finish third making strong ground closer to the rail.  Her last 200m was the equal fastest of the day.  She ran fourth in a South Australian Derby so has a touch of class and will be ideally suited in a 2000m race fourth up.

 Redwood Shadow (Race 8)

 This Mick Price & Michael Kent Jnr has hit the line really strongly in his two runs back from a spell.  He finished second at Bendigo first up and then third at Flemington on Sunday.  Ready to peak next start – third up.

Caulfield – Saturday 24 April 2021

Spinning (Race 1)

A really nice debut from the daughter of Pierro.  She was making good ground late on the Peter Moody runner Gimme Par who I have plenty of time for and they have run two lengths inside standard time for the class which bodes well moving forward.  Furthermore her mother Dizzy Diva was placed over a mile so expect her to improve stepping out in trip next start.

 Maserartie Bay (Race 9)

 Great first up run over the mile.  He is another who found himself in a very tricky spot but was able to peel off strong late sectionals to run second.  He is a progressive stayer capable of going to a new level this time around and I suspect Ciaron Maher & David Eustace will look for a 2000m race second up with him.

Caulfield – Saturday 17 April 2021

Johandough (Race 1)

Race caller Matt Hill described Johandough as a tragedy beat in his call and he was probably right.  The Thomas Carberry trained gelding was under the whip on the turn but he is a horse that gets stronger the longer the race goes and was really starting to surge to the line before running into dead ends late.  He is in terrific form, having won his two previous starts, and now has a great platform to step up to 2400m and win an off season Saturday metropolitan race for his connections.

Approach Discreet (Race 2)

Approach Discreet was a model of consistency last preparation winning three times and finishing in the placings at three of his other four runs.  All of his wins came at 1800m + so his effort to finish fourth in the benchmark 78 over 1400m on Saturday was excellent.  He got a long long way back in a fast run race but weaved through the field with great purpose to be beaten less than two lengths in the end.   He has a strong second up record and is one we can be looking to back next start up in trip.

Rubisaki (Race 7)

Rubisaki had a near impeccable record entering last spring but two very poor runs would of left connections scratching their heads.  However, she returned to the races on Saturday off the back of an encouraging Cranbourne trial and after being held up for the early part of the straight hit the line really strongly against some race fit second tier sprinters.  It should also be noted that this was her first career run under 1200m which probably gives the performance even more merit.

Bendigo – Saturday 27 March 2021

Man From Uncle (Race 2)

Rising seven year old Man From Uncle made a nice return to the races.  He was unsuited by a slow pace but made solid ground late against fitter horses in a reasonably strong benchmark 90.  He had jumped out well prior and it looks like he is in for a good preparation.

Good And Proper (Race 5)

Good And Proper is absolutely air borne this preparation.  She has finished in the top two at her last four starts.  On Saturday, she produced a massive final 600 m burst to come from last and just miss in a photo off a very slow lead time.  She has another win in her this preparation.

Mozzie Monster (Race 7)

We made Mozzie Monster our best each way bet of the day on Saturday.   She was another horse who was unsuited getting a long way back in a very slowly run race.   Similarly to Good and Proper she has produced a very strong finish and will be perfectly suited third up and stepping up to 1600m at her next start.  One to follow!

Moonee Valley – Friday 19 March 2021

Rights Of Man (Race 2)

Rights Of Man is a lightly raced colt with plenty of talent and upside.  He was unsuited on Friday night by a slow tempo and a track favouring leaders but still came home with some strong closing splits against Stakes performed horses.  Stepping up to 1400m suits next start.

September Run (Race 7)

Outside of the winner – who was visually very impressive but also perhaps a little flattered by the bias – September Run’s effort in the William Reid was one of the runs of night.  Her connections would have been concerned after a disappointing run in the Newmarket but she has gone as well as she possibly could here given where she landed in the run and the pattern of the night.  She heads back to Sydney now and can make her presence felt up there.

Cielo D’oro (Race 8)

Cielo D’oro is air born this preparation.  She was no match for the very smart Marabi who ran the fastest last 400/200m splits of the entire meeting after controlling the race from the front but I love the way she moved into the race on the bend and was strong through the line to finish in a clear second.  Look for her in another benchmark race over 1200m in coming weeks.

Moonee Valley – Saturday 13 March 2021

Riddle Me That (Race 4)

Matt Laurie’s Riddle Me That has returned in excellent order.  He faced a strong field of listed sprinters in race four on the card and was able to work home against the pattern of the day into second place.  He has a strong 1400m record and he will be hard to beat stepping up to that distance next start.

Cherry Tortoni (Race 5)

On face value, the odds on favourite in the Alister Clarke Stakes – Cherry Tortoni – was disappointing but I’m inclined to be forgiving of him.  Billy Egan was forced to snag back to last to avoid being stuck three wide with out cover.  He attempted to make the big wide sweeping run which didn’t appear to be the right play on the day and while he tracked into the race well the wheels began to spin shortly after.  He heads to Sydney now to run in the Tulloch Stakes over 2000m, with a strong SP profile and I think he can bounce back.

Russian Camelot (Race 8)

There was plenty of money around to say Russian Camelot was ready to run a huge race first up in the All Star Mile and that is exactly what he did.  The Danny O’Brien trained entire settled well back on the fence and was able to truck through the field nicely courtesy of some Damian Oliver brilliance.  Mugatoo out slogged him late in the wet conditions but they have put a big space back to third and that horse had a fitness edge on him.  Russian Camelot now heads to Sydney and if he can find a track with some cut out will be mighty hard to beat at his next start.

Flemington – Saturday 6 March 2021

Annavisto (Race 2)

Not much went right for the favourite in race two.  After a tardy get away, Annavisto over raced badly back in the field and clearly did not appreciate the slow tempo.  However, she was still able to close her race off strongly.   She was only second up on Saturday so should still have some improvement to come and will be looking for a more genuine tempo next time.

Marboosha (Race 5)

Brilliant return win from team Snowden’s Marboosha.  The three year-old filly surged through a narrow gap at the 200m mark and went on to win the listed Moomba Stakes by 1.25 lengths.   Think she will be even more suited stepping up in distance next start – a very nice filly in the making.

Miami Bound (Race 8)

Thought the 2019 VRC Oaks winner was the run of the race in the Australian Cup.  She faced a near impossible task on the bend to win, given how far back she was, but was able to make up very good ground in the run to the line.  She is racing like a horse looking for 2400m now and some sting out of the track would also work in her favour.

Flemington – Saturday 27 February 2021

Platoon (Race 3)

A tough watch for those who backed WA galloper Platoon on Saturday.  His race was run at a very moderate tempo and he found himself in an awful spot back close to last and in between runners.  He was still giving the winner, Morvada – who controlled the speed – 5-6 lengths at the 200m so he has done really well to close late and run third beaten less than 2 lengths.  Keen to back him up in trip next start.

Beltoro (Race 7)

Beltoro is technically still in his first racing preparation so he has done a terrific job to progress from a Bendigo maiden on November 26 to running sixth in a Group 1 in late February.  He was suited by the strong tempo on Saturday but has still done a really good job to finish strongly after being held up for a stride or two.  He is a progressive colt.

Capriccio (Race 8)

Think there are two horses we can follow out of the Inglis Dash.

The first is the race winner Capriccio who resumed off a 180 day spell.  This lightly raced daughter of I Am Invincible charged home over the top of Group 2 placed filly, Bella Nipotina to score by .75 of a length.  A great first up run and at only start number 4 she will take a stack of improvement both from a race fitness and experience point of view.

Lord Olympus (Race 8)

The second is Lord Olympus.  Horses that were drawn towards the outside rail in the straight races had a significant advantage on Saturday.  The wider you got, the better the ground was, so Lord Olympus’ effort to charge home on the inside of runners here first up was full of merit.  Follow him.

Caulfield – Saturday 20 February 2021

San Huberto (Race 1)

A nice return from San Huberto in the Mornington Cup Prelude.  He had to lump 60kg on Saturday and was only beaten narrowly by the inform Defibrillate over a distance clearly short of his best.  He started $5 in the Prix Kergorlay in France on August 23.  That race often produces horses that run well in the Melbourne Cup which is a good indication that he has some real quality.  Look for him stepping up to 2400m next start.

Moonlight Maid (Race 4)

Loved the return of the 2020 Australasian Oaks runner up – Moonlight Maid – who we hadn’t seen at the races for over nine months.  Her last place finish in the Mannerism Stakes is much better than it reads.  Beaten for speed early she was finding the line strongly over the concluding stages reeling off the fastest last 200m of the race.  She will be suited up in trip next start.

Steele Prince (Race 9)

Steele Prince put together an outstanding spring campaign and he appears to have come back in similar, if not better, order.  He raced three wide with out cover in the Peter Young Stakes and was left flat footed when they quickened.  However he picked up again to be beaten less than a length.  A terrific pipe opener and another to look for up in distance next start.

Flemington – Saturday 13 February 2021

Gimmie Par (Race 2)

Gimmie Par is the daughter of Black Caviar’s full sister Naturalle and there was some money around to say that she was ready to run a race on debut.  From the outside barrier, Jye McNeil did a good job to find the back of race favourite Ingratiating, who is also one of the fancies for this weeks Blue Diamond Stakes.  That horse was able to establish a race winning break on her when they sprinted but once she got her mind on the job she was taking ground off him late to be only beaten half a length with a further 2.5 length gap back to third.  She looks to have a bright future ahead of her.

Zou Dancer (Race 5)

This daughter of Zoustar notched up her third career win at start number five.  She settled outside a strong speed – set by roughie Longduan – with some quality fillies, including VRC Oaks winner Personal getting more economical trips behind her.  Throw in the fact she was seven weeks between runs and it looked like she could be vulnerable at the top of the straight.  Instead she exploded -putting a 4.8 length gap in her rivals.  She’s an exciting filly and can test the boys in the Australian Guinea’s in two weeks time.

September Run (Race 8)

September Run was unbeaten at Flemington (3/3) heading into Saturday and whilst she failed to make it four wins from as many starts – she lost no admirers.  The Coolmore Stud Stakes winner was beaten for early speed but her last 100m of the race was outstanding.  She made up many lengths and was only beaten half a length in the end – a huge flashing light.  She is going to be mighty hard to beat over 1200m in the Newmarket in a few weeks time.

Zakat (Race 9)

Zakat – like so many before him – looked all at sea at his first attempt at racing down the Flemington straight.  He never went straight, and given this, I thought his effort to finish second to track specialist I’m Telling Ya was full of merit.  He had trialed up well prior and I think we can follow him next start back around a bend.

Caulfield – Saturday 6 February 2021

Sonaree (Race 1)

Sonaree is a winner of five races from 26 starts.  I thought his first up effort was terrific in the opening race on Saturday.  He sat outside a fast tempo and whilst he was no match for the inform Regardsmaree he fought on really strongly to finish in fourth position.  This is likely to be a good form race and with a run under his belt he will be hard to hold out next time we see him at the races.

Anamoe (Race 3)

We are less than two weeks away from the Group 1 Blue Diamond Stakes and the Godolphin colt Anamoe firmly announced that he is a major contender in the race.  Resuming off an impressive Sandown win, he settled midfield in the Blue Diamond Prelude (C&G) and was pushed along to pick on the turn.  He was still giving away multiple lengths with 200m to go but surged late to miss by a nose, a sensational return.  If there is a chink in the armor of the short priced Blue Diamond favourite Enthaar, Anamoe will be there to pounce.

Noncomformist (Race 6)

Greame Begg’s up and coming middle distance horse Nonconformist was another making his return to the races on Saturday.  He ended up in a very awkward position three pairs back on the fence in the Geoffrey Belmaine Stakes which was run at a very slow tempo.  However once he saw clear air he closed strongly over the concluding stages to finish in third position.  A perfect pipe opener.

Caulfield – Saturday 30 January 2021

Ginger Jones (Race 6)

It was an impressive return to the races for Ginger Jones who won the benchmark 78 by 1.5 lengths on Saturday. She didn’t come up last preparation, failing to run a place at five her of her six starts. However there was strong market support to say she had returned in good order and was ready to run well on Saturday and that’s what she did. She got a relatively easy time in front but showed a good kick on straightening to win comfortably in the end. This race rated well and there is no reason why she can’t win again especially a race run at her home track of Caulfield where she is two starts for two wins.

Rudimental (Race 7)

This former French stayer trained by Matthew Ellerton & Simon Zahra had his third Australian start on Saturday.  He had been safely held at Warrnambool and Flemington in his two starts prior over 1700 and 2000 metres.  Rudimental appeared to relish getting to the 2400m for the first time on Austalian soil hitting the line hard from back in the field to only be beaten a length.  He looks ready to peak at his next start having now had a run over 2400m.

Sound (Race 9)

Michael Moroney’s Sound was resuming off a terrific spring campaign.  A campaign that featured a victory in the Group 2 Sandown Classic and a narrow second in the Group 3 Hotham Handicap.  He had jumped out well in recent weeks at Flemington indicating that he had come back in good order and after finding himself a long way back in the run made very good ground in the home straight in limited room.  A lovely pipe opener to his autumn campaign with staying Group 1 races such as the BMW & Sydney Cup no doubt in mind.

Caulfield – Tuesday 26 January 2021

Three horses to follow from the Blue Diamond Preview Meeting at Caulfield.

Rainbiel (Race 1)

This lightly raced daughter of Toronado resumed in the benchmark 70 for fillies over 1100m.  She normally settles on speed in her races but after a tardy beginning was forced to race worse than midfield.   She appeared to have plenty to give upon straightening but Dean Holland had no where to go until finally getting to the outside at the 150m mark.  From here she rocketed home to be beaten a nose and was well in front 50m after the post.  She showed good talent last preparation and with a cleaner getaway next start will take plenty of beating.

Duke Of Plumpton (Race 2)

This former Kiwi was third up on Tuesday.  He sat three pairs back on the fence off a moderate speed.  He travelled sweetly in the run and once balanced closed intently to finish a length behind the winner, Takumi, who had a perfect run in the race.  The Duke looks ready to win now over a similar distance (2000m) and any give in the ground at his next start would only further enhance his chances.

Duchy Of Savoy (Race 4)

Team Hawkes unveiled debutant Duchy Of Savoy in the fillies edition of the Blue Diamond Preview and I thought her effort was close to the run of the day.  The daughter of Snitzel jumped as well as any horse in the race but soon after drifted back to settle last on the fence.  She was pulled to the centre of the track on straightening and was ultra impressive late in running fourth under hands and heels riding.  This was backed up on the clock.  Look for her to settle handier in the run next time out and with improvement she can be a factor in what is going to be a strong edition of the Blue Diamond Stakes to be run in a little under a months time.

2022-09-12T16:13:14+10:00

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