Caulfield Preview

Today I’m riding at Caulfield for the traditional Australia Day meeting. The rail is out 6 metres and the track is rated in the good range, but with light rain falling and further poor weather forecast this could cause a downgrade later in the day.

Race 1 is the BM70 Vale John C. Adgemis Handicap over 1100 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is CIRCLE OF MAGIC (NZ) who is trained by Mark Kavanagh. This daughter of Per Incanto had one start last year where she made all the running at Wangaratta over 1100 metres before fading out of it over the concluding stages. She was then sent for a break from training and resumed at Kilmore on January 12^thwith a solid effort to win her maiden. This will be my first ride on her and she meets a very competitive field of fillies, so it will provide a good guide on where she fits in moving forward towards the Autumn.

Race 3 is the Listed Neds Blue Diamond Preview over 1000 metres for two-year-old colts and geldings, my ride here is VINLAGO who is trained by Robbie Griffiths & Mathew de Kock. This colt by I Am Invincible had one start last year in the Maribyrnong Trial at Flemington where he displayed good early speed over the straight course before fading late in the race, and he subsequently pulled up lame. This will be his first-up run this preparation and I’m looking forward to seeing how he presents in the yard with the benefit of having been to the races once before. He will start from an inside barrier and will be racing around a bend for the first time. This looks to be a strong race on paper with plenty of exposed form and it will provide a good indication of where he fits in leading into the Blue Diamond.

Race 4 is the Group 3 Neds Blue Diamond Preview over 1000 metres for two-year-old fillies, my ride here is DUCHY OF SAVOY who is trained by Michael, Wayne & John Hawkes. This daughter of Snitzel runs in the colours of Glentree Racing. She is making her raceday debut today and I’ve watched her recent jumpouts at Flemington where she showed good natural speed and in her most recent effort, she finished next to the favourite for the previous race. She will start from an outside barrier over the 1000 metres, so it will be interesting to see what my instructions are pre-race with the long run in to the home turn. I’m looking forward to seeing how she presents and performs under raceday conditions and pressure for the first time.

Race 6 is the Listed John Dillon Stakes over 1400 metres, my ride here is DADOOZDART (GB) who is trained by Michael, Wayne & John Hawkes. This five-year-old gelding by Dawn Approach is raced by R & C Legh Racing and partners. He’s had 13 starts for a record of four wins, with all of his wins being of soft or heavy ground. He races here first-up this preparation and has winning form when racing fresh. He will start from barrier five in a field of eight and this looks to be a race with limited early pressure on paper. He has very strong form lines around Group 1 winners in New South Wales and is well weighted carrying only half a kilo above the minimum weight in this Listed contest.

Race 7 is the Listed Neds W.J. Adams Stakes over 1000 metres, my ride here is ALL BANTER who is trained by Richard & Chantelle Jolly. This three-year-old filly by I’m All the Talk is lightly raced having had only five starts for an excellent record of three wins and a second placing. She has won her past two starts and comes into this with a nice gap between runs. She is racing up in grade taking on the open horses and drops to the minimum weight of 54 kilos today. She is a horse that makes her own luck in running and will start from a middle barrier draw. There is no doubt that this will be her biggest test to date but she looks to be a progressive filly and it gives me confidence that her trainers have targeted this race as they are astute in travelling and placing their horses. I’m looking forward to taking the ride on her and expect she will be very competitive.

Gold Coast Preview - 16th January 2021

Craig rides at the Gold Coast today. Watch the video preview below:

Gold Coast Preview - 9th January 2021

Craig rides at the Gold Coast today. Watch the video preview below:

Sandown Preview

Today I’m riding at Sandown for the twilight meeting on the Lakeside circuit. The rail is out 7 metres with a cut-away-rail from the 400 metres to the winning post in the straight, and the track is rated in the soft range.

Race 1 is the Ladbrokes Cash In Maiden Plate over 1200 metres, my ride here is JOHNNY ANGEL who is trained by Aaron Purcell. This lightly raced gelding by I Am Invincible has had six starts for a record of two seconds and a third placing. I had my first ride on him last start when he was third-up this preparation in a similarly strong maiden at Caulfield where we finished second. He is a horse that seems to make his own luck in running over these distances and he was solid through the line last start. He will start from a middle barrier draw against this small but very competitive field of maiden gallopers, and if he holds his form will take a lot of beating in this.

Race 3 is the Class 1 Clanbrooke Racing Handicap over 1300 metres, my ride here is FIERY RED who is trained by Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott. This four-year-old gelding by Pierro has had eight starts for a record of one win and a third placing. Out of his eight starts he’s had two runs in Victoria, one as a three-year-old at Moonee Valley and more recently, first-up this preparation at Geelong where he finished third out of four runners on heavy ground over 1200 metres and only 1.9 lengths from the winner. He will start from a wide barrier draw and is a horse that usually races on-speed. He will have taken natural fitness improvement from his first-up run on heavy ground and should appreciate the slight step up in distance today.

Race 4 is the Class 1 Thoroughbred Club Handicap over 1500 metres, my ride here is YUKON who is trained by Michael, Wayne & John Hawkes. This three-year-old gelding by Vancouver is raced by Rupert Legh and partners. He’s had two starts and made a winning debut in New South Wales over 1350 metres at Wyong. His next start saw him finish third in Class 1 company over 1400 metres at Kembla Grange where he finished 1.8 lengths from the winner. He is a lightly raced and progressive three-year-old and this will be his first start the Melbourne way of going. He will start from a favourable barrier draw and this race looks a nice option for him as he continues to progress through his grades.

Race 5 is the BM64 The Big Screen Company Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is LARRIKIN who is trained by Brian McGrath. This seven-year-old gelding by Poet’s Voice has raced 43 times for a record of eight wins and three placings. I’ve ridden him both of his runs this preparation, with both of those being at this course. The mile is his most preferred distance as from 11 attempts he’s won five times and placed once at this range. Last start he raced at the same course and distance as today’s race finishing a length from the winner in fourth placing. He drops from BM70 grade last start to BM64 grade today and goes up three kilos in weight. He is very well placed in this race and on his best form is one of the main chances.

Race 6 is the BM70 Quayclean Handicap over 2100 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is JOHANDOUGH who is trained by Thomas Carberry. This four-year-old mare by Turffontein is lightly raced for her age and has a race record of one win and seven placings from 15 starts. She races here third-up this preparation and I had my first ride on her last start at this course and distance in open BM64 grade. She is racing up in grade today, down in weight and returns to racing against her own sex. She can be anxious and keen in running and has some change to her head gear today including the cross-over noseband coming off, and pre-race ear muffs and tongue tie going on for the first time which hopefully can help her. I understand her better having ridden her last start and that will hold me in good stead for today’s assignment. If the gear changes work to her advantage and help her to relax and conserve her energy, then I am confident she will be winning.

Race 8 is the BM70 MRC Membership Hcp over 1400 metres, my ride here is TRANSLATOR who is trained by Nigel Blackiston. This four-year-old gelding by Helmet is lightly raced having had 12 starts for two wins and two minor placings. He is a horse I know well and from my five rides on him have a record of two wins and a third placing. He won his maiden first-up last preparation at this course over 1600 metres as a three-year-old and went on to win again at his next start at Geelong against the older horses in BM64 grade. He then progressed to a three-year-old handicap at Caulfield where we finished third and just over a length from the winner. He then seemed to train off and didn’t perform as well at his next two starts and was subsequently sent for a break from training. I’m really looking forward to seeing how he presents for his first-up run this preparation and how he performs. He is a horse that I have a lot of time for and he’s always given me the feel of a galloper with above average ability and it will be good to see how he has matured into a four-year-old. 

Caulfield Preview

Today I’m riding at Caulfield, the rail is out 3 metres and the track is rated in the good range. There is some poor weather forecast for this afternoon, so I’m looking forward to arriving on course and walking the track. Caulfield is a unique track where the wind direction can be a key factor in how races are run and won.

Race 3 is the BM70 Jodie Burgess Handicap over 2380 metres, my ride here is PISSARO who is trained by Michael Kent. This six-year-old gelding by Pierro is raced by Ray and Sue Montague and partners. He’s had 43 starts for a record of four wins and five placings. I’ve had two rides on him, finishing fourth at Sandown three starts ago before being successful on him at his next run at Moonee Valley over 2500 metres. It was 12 months between wins for him and no doubt his win will be a good confidence booster. Last start he contested the Stayers Final at Moonee Valley finishing fourth over 3000 metres, and he comes into this race a really fit horse that is dropping back in distance. He will start from a favourable barrier draw and if he runs up to his consistent form he will make his presence felt.

Race 4 is the BM70 Warren Moore Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is HOUSAY who is trained by Shea Eden. This four-year-old gelding by Zebedee is a lightly raced and progressive galloper with a race record of two wins and two third placings from only five starts, with his only unplaced run being in the BM90 Grey’s race over 1400 metres at Flemington where he finished fifth and just over a length from the winner. I had my first ride on him last start at Moonee Valley finishing third in a BM78 over 1200 metres. We didn’t have any luck in the straight and with clear running I felt that he would have won. He gave me the feel of a horse with good potential and upside and I’m really looking forward to riding him again. He drops back in grade today and stays at the same distance as last start and will start from a wide barrier. If the track is racing fairly and we have luck from the draw, he will be too good for these today.

Race 7 is the BM78 Travis Stillman Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is RULE THE WORLD who is trained by Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott. This four-year-old gelding by Hallowed Crown is raced by Gooree Stud. He’s had seven starts for three wins and this will be his first time racing the Melbourne way of going. This will be his second-up run this campaign and I’m looking forward to having my first ride on him and seeing how he presents pre-race. He will start from a wide barrier and hopefully he doesn’t have to do too much work in the early stages to take up a position close to the speed.

Race 8 is the BM84 Mia Tiernan Handicap over 1100 metres, my ride here is LANKAN STAR who is trained by Tom Dabernig & Ben Hayes. The races today are named after Members of the Club and as it happens, Mia Tiernan is a friend of my accountant’s daughter, so it would be a great thrill to win this race in her name. Lankan Star is a four-year-old mare by Nicconi with a race record of two wins and three placings from 20 starts, with a win and second placing coming at this track. She is fourth-up this preparation and drops six kilos in weight from her past two runs. She will start from a favourable barrier draw where she will get every opportunity to run her best race. She also has a gear change of the blinkers off and the winkers going on again.

Race 9 is the BM84 Virginia Meyer Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is AMADEUS who is trained by Michael Kent. This eight-year-old entire by Amadeus Wolf is raced by Joan Walker. He’s had 38 race starts for a record of five wins, nine second and four third placings with over half-a-million dollars in prizemoney earning. I’ve ridden him throughout his career with success and this will be my first time back on him this preparation. He comes into his fourth up this campaign and is stepping up to the 1600 metres after racing over 1400 at his past two runs. He will start from an inside barrier draw where he should get every favour in running and I expect him to be very competitive. 

Flemington Preview

I’d like to wish all of my supporters a Happy New Year and a safe and successful 2021. Today I’m riding at Flemington, the rail is out 3 metres and the track is rated in the good range. There is rain forecast for later in the day, so the changing weather conditions are something I’ll have to be mindful of throughout the meeting.

Race 1 is the New Year Sprint over 1000 metres for two-year-old fillies, my ride here is I AM ENCHANTING who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This daughter of I Am Invincible makes her debut today, as are most of her opposition in this field. I’ve watched a replay of her recent jumpout at Flemington where she was slow out of the barriers but finished off nicely. She looked to jumpout and move nicely and if she brings that form to the races and handles the raceday pressure and conditions for the first time, can make her presence felt.

Race 2 is the BM70 Welcome 2021 Handicap over 2000 metres, my ride here is NOT MINE (GER) who is trained by Tom Dabernig & Ben Hayes. This six-year-old gelding by Dabirsim has had 23 starts for a record of one win and two second placings and started his career racing in Europe, before moving to Hong Kong and now Australia, where he’s had his past four starts. He is a horse that doesn’t appreciate rain affected ground, so hopefully the rain doesn’t arrive prior to his race. I’ve ridden him in his past three starts and have been pleased with his progression. His effort last start at Pakenham was very good to finish just over a length from the winner over 1600 metres. He steps up to the 2000 metres today with his only win being over 1900 metres, he will appreciate the step up in distance. He looks well placed today and on his best form can win this.

Race 3 is the Listed Bagot Handicap over 2800 metres, my ride here is TRALEE ROSE (NZ) who is trained by Symon Wilde. This talented four-year-old mare by Tavistock is lightly raced for her age with a race record of three wins and three second placings from eight starts. She has been in great form this preparation, winning her first three runs this campaign before finishing second at her most recent start over 2500 metres at Flemington. She is stepping up to this distance for the first time and drops to the minimum weight of 54 kilos. She is a versatile mare that handles all track conditions, so if there is rain about it will be of no disadvantage to her. On her current form she is the horse they all have to beat.

Race 4 is the Group 3 Standish Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is MORRISSY who is trained by Leon & Troy Corstens. This five-year-old entire by Snitzel is raced by the Morrissy family. He is such a consistent galloper and comes into this feature race with a record of five wins, five second and six third placings from 25 starts. I rode him in a recent jumpout in preparation for this race and his future goal of racing at the Magic Millions race day on the Gold Coast on January 16^th. This is a competitive sprint race but he has the experience of racing over the straight course and based on the way he is going, I expect he will make his presence felt.

Race 6 is the BM70 Victorian Jockeys Association Trophy over 1400 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is MAGGIE MISS who is trained by Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott. This five-year-old mare by Medaglia d’Oro is lightly raced having had 14 starts for a record of two wins and seven placings. She races here third-up today and last start was her first time racing the Melbourne way of going for quite some time, and that was my first ride on her. She pulled up with an issue post-race which explains her disappointing performance. Away from last start she has been a very consistent mare and hopefully she can bounce back to her best form again today.

Race 7 is the BM70 Off The Track Program Handicap over 1700 metres for three and four year-old’s, my ride here is PLUCKY PIROUETTE who is trained by Caroline Jennings. This three-year-old filly by Brazen Beau is raced by Kennedy Racing. She’s had nine starts for a record of one win and three placings. Two starts ago at Pakenham she had the blinkers on for the first time and was solid in winning her maiden over 1600 metres. At her most recent start she stepped up to 3YO Fillies BM64 grade at Caulfield to finish third. After watching a replay of her Caulfield run I feel she is better suited to flatter and more spacious tracks, and the Flemington circumference will be of benefit to her. She drops 4 kilos in weight from last start and a low barrier draw will give her every opportunity to be competitive against this strong field.

Race 8 is the BM70 Australian Trainers Association Plate over 1600 metres, my ride here is FUNDRAISER who is trained by Tom Dabernig & Ben Hayes. This four-year-old gelding by Helmet is raced by Halo Racing Services and partners. He is lightly raced for his age having had seven starts for a record of three wins and two placings. He’s had three runs this campaign and after finishing third first-up to The Astrologist over 1100 metres, has won his next his two runs over 1200 and 1400 metres respectively. This is his first attempt racing over the mile and he can be an aggressive horse in running, so keeping him relaxed will be a key factor. He comes into this with confidence from his past two wins and he’s been in great form this campaign. With luck in running from the barrier, and provided he can relax through the early stages, he will take a lot of beating in this.

Caulfield Preview

I’d like to wish all of my supporters a very merry Christmas and a safe, healthy and prosperous 2021. Today I’m riding at Caulfield for the traditional Boxing Day meeting. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 1 is the Caulfield – Home Of Outdoor Events Hcp over 1200 metres for two-year-old’s, my ride here is MR SCOREFIELD who is trained by Nigel Blackiston. This gelding by Squamosa has had two career starts. He made his debut in the Inglis Banner at Moonee Valley on Cox Plate Day over 1000 metres and then competed over the 1100 metre straight course at Flemington at his most recent start, where he closed the race off nicely. He comes through solid form lines and has the benefit of racing experience on his side. The step up in distance should be to his advantage and on his form, he will be one of the main chances in this race.

Race 4 is the BM78 Frank O’Brien Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is WICKLOW TOWN who is trained by Julie Scott. This four-year-old gelding by Canford Cliffs has had 14 starts for a record of four wins and three placings and is a very consistent galloper. He’s had five runs this preparation and is racing over the same distance as his last start where he finished third at Flemington. He’s had two runs at the course and distance for two second placings. He will start from a middle barrier draw in what seems to be a competitive field. If he runs up to his best form and we have luck in running, he will take a lot of beating.

Race 6 is the BM70 Joe Brown Handicap over 1100 metres, my ride here is HEKA EXPRESS who is trained by Leon & Troy Corstens. This four-year-old mare by Starspangledbanner has had 17 starts for four wins and three second placings. She is a short-course sprinter with three of her wins being over 1000 metres and the other being over 1125 metres. She comes into this third-up for her preparation and is dropping back to BM70 grade today. She has drawn a middle to wide barrier and if she doesn’t have to do too much work to take up a position close to the speed, she can make her presence felt in this grade of race.

Race 8 is the Listed Neds Lord Stakes over 1700 metres, my ride here is PANCHO who is trained by Chris Waller. This four-year-old gelding by Dissident is raced by Laurel Oak Bloodstock and partners. I rode him last start to win the Kilmore Cup over 1600 metres where he gave me a lovely ride throughout. He is deep into his racing preparation but he’s had his races spaced out nicely. Since his last start win I’ve ridden him in a jumpout at Flemington and felt that he’s derived a lot of confidence from that victory. We will need luck from a wide barrier draw today, but on his best form he will be one of the main chances.

Race 9 is the BM78 Dennis Hanrahan Handicap over 2000 metres, my ride here is YULONG CAPTAIN (IRE) who is trained by Tom Dabernig & Ben Hayes. This five-year-old gelding by Galileo runs in the colours of Yu Long Investments. He is lightly raced and has been a consistent galloper with a record of three wins and five placings from 14 starts. He’s had one run this preparation and is stepping up to a more suitable distance for his second-up run, with his wins being over 2000 – 2400 metres. I’m looking forward to having my first ride on him and expect that he will be very competitive, if not winning today. This race looks a good option for him as he progresses through his preparation over the Summer and Autumn months and there are plenty of race options for him based on his rating.

Sandown Preview

This afternoon I’m riding at Sandown for the twilight meeting. The rail is out 4 metres on the Lakeside circuit and after heavy rain this week, the track is rated in the soft range. There is a cut-a-way rail in the straight today at the 400, which allows horses behind the speed to choose if they take that option for clear running, or continue to make ground to the outside.

Race 1 is the Ladbrokes Maiden Cash In Plate over 1200 metres, my ride here is DIAMONDS’N’STONES who is trained by Michael, Wayne & John Hawkes. This three-year-old gelding by Brazen Beau is raced by Rupert Legh and partners. He’s had three starts for two second placings, with both of his placings being from his two runs last campaign on soft ground. He resumed this preparation at Moonee Valley on December 4^thand after starting from a wide barrier sat outside of the leader, to be beaten by just over three-and-a-half lengths. He will be fitter for that run and unfortunately, he will start from a wide barrier again today and we will need luck in running. The form from his last start has been franked with Real Gun winning a maiden at Caulfield last Wednesday, so on that form and with natural improvement from his first up run he will be one of the main chances.

Race 2 is the BM64 IVE > Print Handicap over 1600 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is IMPERIAL HILTON who is trained by Patrick Payne. This gelding by The Factor runs in the colours of Larneuk Stud. He’s had two starts, winning on debut at Ballarat over 1200 metres and I rode him last start at Sandown over 1400 metres to finish second, less than two lengths from the winner. I liked the feel he gave me last start and he should appreciate the step up in distance. He goes up 1.5 kilos in weight from last start and will start from an inside barrier. He looks well placed today and will take a lot of beating in this.

Race 6 is the BM70 Quayclean Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is LARRIKIN who is trained by Brian McGrath. This six-year-old gelding by Poet’s Voice has had 42 starts for a record of eight wins and three placings and has been a consistent galloper throughout his career. I rode him first-up this preparation when he resumed after a long lay-off, he was able to make use of his inside barrier draw in the early stages but we didn’t have clear galloping room in the straight. I was really impressed with his run in the circumstances to finish 2.65 lengths from the winner. He will start from a favourable barrier draw today and is stepping up to the mile for his second up run, which is a distance he is very effective over. If he runs up to his first up effort and has luck in running, there is no reason why he can’t win this.

Race 7 is the BM64 Ladbrokes Odds Boost Handicap over 2100 metres, my ride here is JOHANDOUGH who is trained by Thomas Carberry. This four-year-old mare by Turffontein is lightly raced with a record of one win and six placings from 14 starts. She races here third-up this preparation after finishing fourth and second respectively in Class 1 company over 1600 and 2000 metres. She looked to race keenly last start and has the addition of a cross-over noseband to her head gear for the first time today. She will start from a wide barrier draw, but she has really solid form and if we have luck in running I expect she will make her presence felt.

Race 8 is the BM64 Ladbrokes Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is DUNE FIELD (NZ) who is trained by Jamie Edwards. This four-year-old gelding by Shamexpress has a consistent record of two wins and three placings from just 10 starts, and I’ve ridden him in both of his wins and for a second placing. Both of his wins have been at Sandown and if he brings his form from last start where we were narrowly beaten at Moonee Valley into this, he will take a lot of beating and I’m looking forward to maintaining my good record of him. 

Caulfield Preview

Today I’m riding at Caulfield for the twilight meeting. The rail is out 14 metres and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 2 is the Neds Filter Form Maiden Plate over 1200 metres, my ride here is JOHNNY ANGEL who is trained by Aaron Purcell. This four-year-old gelding by I Am Invincible has had five race starts for a second and third placing, with both of his placings coming after he has been transferred into Aaron’s care in Victoria at the start of this preparation. His two runs this preparation have both been over the 1200 metres of this race, and he has been ridden both off and on the speed. He will start from a middle barrier today and his two recent efforts have been solid. He comes into this with good fitness levels and will be one of the main chances if he runs up to his recent form.

Race 3 is the Class 1 Neds Same Race Multi Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is WINSUM who is trained by Ken & Kasey Keys. This three-year-old colt by Wandjina is lightly raced and I’ve ridden him in both of his starts. I was really taken with his track work and jumpouts before he made his debut in the Group 3 Blue Diamond Prelude. When he went to the races for the first time he started from a wide barrier and after racing greenly throughout put in a credible effort to finish 3 lengths from the winner. He was then sent for a break from training and resumed this preparation at Cranbourne with a dominant win in maiden company over 1000 metres. I still felt that he did a few things wrong at Cranbourne and he will have taken benefit from the racing experience. In his jumpout’s he has always shown natural speed, but on raceday he hasn’t shown that early speed from the barriers, but nevertheless he overcame that last start. He is horse with very good potential that I’ve got a lot of time for. If he gets things right today, he is the horse they all have to beat.

Race 4 is the BM64 Unleash your Neds Toolbox Handicap over 1600 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is SHEZADANDI who is trained by Greg Eurell. This daughter of Dandino has had two starts for two placings. Her first run was in November over 1200 metres and she then stepped up to 1450 metres at Kyneton last start on December 3^rd, where you could really see the natural improvement she had taken with the benefit of racing experience. She steps up in distance to the mile today and if she has come-on again from her second-up run I expect she can make her presence felt.

Race 5 is the BM64 Neds Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is MOSTLY SUNNY who is trained by Patrick Caboche. This four-year-old mare by Akeed Mofeed is lightly raced having had 13 starts for a record of two wins and six placings, only missing a top three placing on five occasions. I had my first ride on her last start at Moonee Valley in the same grade of race. We started from a low barrier draw and the plan was to ride her a little bit closer to the speed, but she jumped a little bit slow and was hampered at the start, finding ourselves one or two positions further back than anticipated. Once she balanced up in the straight she really closed the race off nicely to finish third. I’m looking forward to riding her again and if she jumps cleanly and runs up to her recent form, she will take a lot of beating in this.

Race 7 is the BM64 Neds Blended Multis Handicap over 1440 metres, my ride here is LODESTAR who is trained by Colin Little. This four-year-old gelding by Zoustar has had 11 starts for a record of two wins and two second placings. I did a lot of work on him before he made his debut and thought he was going nicely. He races here fifth-up this preparation and has been racing consistently after winning first-up over 1200 metres. He ran really well last start to finish fifth at Sandown and only 1.4 lengths from the winner. He has drawn an inside barrier and will give himself every opportunity to run competitively against this even field of gallopers.

Race 8 is the BM70 Neds Price Boost Handicap over 1440 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is MAGGIE MISS who is trained by Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott. This five-year-old daughter of Medaglia d’Oro has had 13 race starts for a consistent record of two wins and seven minor placings. This will be her second start the Melbourne way of going, with her only other run in Victoria being when she contested a fillies and mares race at Flemington during Cup Week in 2019 over 1700 metres. She had two official trials in New South Wales before her first-up run where she finished second over 1250 metres at Canterbury. She races consistently over this distance and when racing second-up. She is a horse that makes her own luck by racing close to the speed but there does look to be a little bit of pressure drawn below her. This looks a suitable race for her and if we have luck in the early stages she will be one of the main chances in this. 

Pakenham Preview

Craig rides at Pakenham today. Watch the video preview below:

Moonee Valley Preview

This evening I’m riding at Moonee Valley for the night meeting. The rail is out three metres and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 1 is the BM64 MVRC Membership On Sale Now Handicap over 1200 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is ZOU DANCER who is trained by Leon & Troy Corstens. This daughter of Zoustar is raced by Bennett Racing and partners. She’s had two lifetime starts and made her debut as a two-year-old where she started favourite, finishing unplaced and just under five lengths from the winner. She was then sent for a break from training and resumed as a three-year-old at Dunkeld last month where she won her maiden over 1000 metres. She started from an outside barrier at Dunkeld and was ridden outside the speed and was really dominant and impressive in her effort. I expect she will have taken natural improvement from last start and comes into this with confidence. She will start from an outside barrier this evening against a small but competitive field, but on what she’s shown to date and with luck in running she can be one of the main chances.

Race 2 is the Moonee Ponds 3039 Shopping Precinct Maiden Plate over 1200 metres, my ride here is ALFOIL who is trained by Leon & Troy Corstens. This three-year-old gelding by Zebedee has had one career start which was at Geelong last month, he made all the running and was beaten by two-and-a-half lengths into third placing. He looks well educated and professional and comes into this evening with the benefit of a first-up run under his belt. He will start from a middle barrier draw and meets a strong field of maiden horses. If things go our way in running he can be one of the contenders.

Race 6 is the BM70 HeartKids Hero Handicap over 2500 metres, my ride here is PISSARO who is trained by Michael Kent. This six-year-old gelding by Pierro is raced by the Montague family and partners. He’s had 41 starts for a record of three wins and five placings. I had my first ride on him last start at Sandown where we finished fourth over 2400 metres. He started from an outside barrier and went back to almost last and ran home well to finish 3.6 lengths behind the winner. He steps up slightly in distance today and although he doesn’t win out of turn, this definitely looks like a winnable race for him. I also have the benefit of having ridden him last start and understand him better, and think he will be highly competitive in this.

Race 8 is the BM64 Moonee Valley Park Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is DUNE FIELD (NZ) who is trained by Jamie Edwards. This four-year-old gelding by Shamexpress has had nine starts for a record of two wins and two placings. I’ve ridden him in both of his wins which were at the end of his last preparation at Sandown in maiden and Class 1 grade respectively. He comes into this fourth-up this preparation and this will be my first ride back on him this campaign. He will start from a favourable barrier draw and on his best form will make his presence felt. 

Sandown Preview

This afternoon I’m riding at Sandown for the twilight meeting. The rail is out eight metres on the Hillside circuit and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 1 is the Ladbrokes Switch Maiden Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is YULONG PREMIER who is trained by Michael, Wayne & John Hawkes. This three-year-old gelding by Pierro is raced by Yu Long Investments. He’s had three starts with all of those being this preparation and placed second at his most recent run at Benalla over 1400 metres. He now steps up to the 1600 metres for the first time and he looks well placed to be one of the main chances in this.

Race 2 is the IVE > Print Maiden Handicap over 1300 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is AIN’T SHE CUTE who is trained by Charlotte Littlefield. This daughter of No Nay Never is raced by Grand Syndicates. She’s had four career starts for three second placings and the only time she missed a placing was first-up this preparation when she finished fourth. She is a very consistent and honest filly and has drawn a favourable barrier today for her first attempt over the 1300 metres. If we can utilise the low barrier draw she will have a very economical run in transit. I’m looking forward to having my first ride on her and she comes into this competitive maiden with the right form.

Race 3 is the Clanbrooke Racing Handicap over 1000 metres for two-year-old fillies, my ride here is VANDOULA LASS who is trained by Michael, Wayne & John Hawkes. This daughter of Vancouver is raced by Orbis Bloodstock. Like all of her opposition today she is having her first race start. I have ridden her in a recent jumpout in preparation for today and was very impressed with how professional she was and the feel she gave me. If she runs up to her recent work and handles the raceday conditions and pressure she will take a lot of beating in this.

Race 4 is the BM64 Thoroughbred Club Handicap over 1000 metres, my ride here is MR BROWN FOX who is trained by Phil Sweeney. This six-year-old gelding by Myboycharlie has had 27 starts for a record of five wins and four placings. He has drawn an outside barrier today but is in his right grade of race, and what gives me confidence is that he’s had one run at this course and distance for a second placing and most of his winning and place form has been over this distance range. He is a horse that runs well when his races are spaced out and he comes into this almost four weeks between runs. If he runs up to his best form he will make his presence felt in this very competitive field.

Race 5 is The Big Screen Company BM64 Handicap over 1400 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is SURFACING who is trained by Matt Laurie. This daughter of Akeed Mofeed is raced by Yu Long Investments. She’s had one start for one win, which was at Dunkeld over 1200 metres where she was dominant in her winning effort on soft ground. She settled in the second half of the field on debut and her margin was decisive at the end of the race. I’m looking forward to having my first ride on her and she comes into this with experience and confidence from her last outing. It looks like the step up in distance will really suit her and she will start from an inside barrier draw to give her every opportunity. If she has trained-on well there is no reason why she can’t make it two from two today.

Race 8 is the BM70 Ladbrokes Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is LARRIKIN who is trained by Brian McGrath. This seven-year-old gelding by Poet’s Voice has had 41 starts for a record of eight wins and three placings. He resumes today after not having raced since April this year. He was very consistent and well-placed last campaign and was able to put a series of wins together. His first-up record is five starts for one win and he’s had seven runs at this distance for one win. I’m really looking forward to seeing how he returns this preparation after his layoff and if he returns to his best form he can make his presence felt.

Moonee Valley Preview

Craig rides at Moonee Valley today. Watch the video preview below:

Cranbourne Preview

This evening I’m riding at Cranbourne for the night meeting. The rail is out nine metres and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 1 is the Browns Sawdust & Shavings Three-Years-Old Maiden Plate over 1500 metres, my ride here is MIDNIGHT RAMBLER who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This gelding by Love Conquers All is raced by the Gorell family. He has been a model of consistency without winning in his career to date with four minor placings from six starts. He is a horse that seems to make his own luck by racing on or close to the speed with his last two starts being over 1600 metres. He drops back to 1500 metres here and he raced over this distance three starts ago at Mornington where he started from a wide barrier and wasn’t beaten far into second placing. He is a horse that races well on all surfaces and he will start from a more favourable barrier this evening, which will give him every opportunity to run his best race and hopefully win his maiden.

Race 2 is the Dirt Rock Civil Maiden Plate over 1300 metres, my ride here is MIGHTY FEAT (NZ) who is trained by Peter Moody. This four-year-old gelding by Per Incanto runs in the colours of Ian MacDonald. He is lightly raced having had just seven starts and has a race record of a second and three third placings. He’s had two runs over 1200 metres this preparation before stepping up to 1400 metres last start at Pakenham. He had the blinkers added to his head gear for the first-time last start, and after making all the running was gallant in defeat to finish second. I like the fact that he is a very fit horse that’s had a run with the blinkers on and is dropping back slightly in distance. He has drawn a low barrier draw and will take a lot of beating in this.

Race 3 is the Designer Coolrooms Maiden Plate over 1000 metres, my ride here is WINSUM who is trained by Ken & Kasey Keys. This three-year-old colt by Wandjina had one start as a two-year-old where I rode him in the Group 3 Blue Diamond Prelude at Caulfield. I rode him in jumpouts and track work in preparation for his debut and felt that he had enough ability to run in the Blue Diamond. Unfortunately his racing manners let him down on raceday at that level and he wasn’t quite ready to continue on in that preparation and he was subsequently sent for a break from training. He is a horse with above average ability and if he brings his recent trackwork to the races he will be winning this.

Race 5 is the TAB Long May We Play Class 1 Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is NARVAEZ who is trained by Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott. This three-year-old colt by Vancouver has had seven starts for a record of one win and two third placings. I rode him last preparation at the end of his two-year-old year and won his maiden on him at Bendigo over 1600 metres. He then had two unplaced runs at Listed and 2YO Handicap grade at Flemington and Caulfield before being sent for a spell. I’m looking forward to seeing how he presents pre-race for his first-up run and how he has matured. If he runs up to his best form he will be very competitive in this.

Race 7 is the De Bortoli Wines BM64 Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is FIXATED who is trained by Tom Dabernig & Ben Hayes. This three-year-old gelding by Hinchinbrook is raced by Mirunners Racing. He has been a very consistent galloper with a record of one win and five placings from his nine starts. He races here fifth-up this preparation and comes into this with confidence as he is a last start winner. He is a very fit horse who is dropping back slightly in distance from last start and is a horse that races close to the speed. He has drawn a wide barrier and will need luck in running, if he has luck and doesn’t have to work too hard in the early stages he will be one of the main chances. 

Bendigo Preview

Today I’m heading to Bendigo for one ride. The rail is out three metres and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 3 is the TAC Be Races Ready Three-Years-Old Fillies Maiden Plate over 1000 metres, my ride here is DIAMONDS INTHE SKY who is trained by Peter Moody. This daughter of Zoustar is raced by the McMaster family. She had one start at the end of her two-year-old season where she finished less than a length-and-a-half behind Parlophone at Sandown on heavy ground in fourth placing. Parlophone franked that form by going on to win the Listed Lightning Stakes in Adelaide at her next start. DIAMONDS INTHE SKY looks to be preparing nicely for her first-up run and I’ve seen a recent jumpout at Pakenham where she showed good speed and looked solid in her effort. This will be my first ride on her and I’m looking forward to seeing how she returns this preparation and, on her form, and recent jumpout she is the horse to beat. 

Sandown Preview

Today I’m riding at Sandown on the Hillside circuit. The rail is out four metres and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 2 is the Class 1 IVE > Print Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is DECKER who is trained by Phil Sweeney. This four-year-old gelding by Written Tycoon is lightly raced having had just three starts, with his only win coming when he made his debut at Griffith over 1200 metres, which was his first start this preparation. He comes into this fourth-up and is stepping up to the 1600 metres for the first time. He has a barrier extension and a barrier blanket added for the first time and that’s usually something to give horses more confidence in the gates. I’m looking forward to having my first ride on him and this will be his first time racing the Melbourne way of going, so I’ll be mindful of helping him around the turn and down the hill.

Race 3 is the BM64 Quayclean Handicap over 1400 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is IMPERIAL HILTON who is trained by Patrick Payne. This gelding by The Factor races in the colours of Larneuk Stud. He was dominant when winning his maiden in his only start at Ballarat at the start of the month over 1200 metres. He comes into today with confidence from his debut victory and will be more experienced from that run. He is stepping up in class and distance today and will start from a favourable barrier draw, which will give him every opportunity. This looks to be a competitive field but I was impressed with his performance last start and he should take a lot of beating in this.

Race 5 is the BM64 Clanbrooke Racing Handicap over 2400 metres, my ride here is PISSARO who is trained by Michael Kent. This six-year-old gelding by Pierro races in the colours of the Montague family. He’s had 40 starts for a record of three wins and five placings and it’s nearly 12 months since he won his last race. He’s had four runs this preparation and has been racing consistently without winning. He will start from a wide barrier and there looks to be a good amount of pressure in this race, but we will still need luck in running. If he runs up to his best form he can be one of the main chances.

Race 6 is the BM64 Tile Importer Handicap over 1300 metres, my ride here is MATSUMOTO who is trained by Mitchell Beer. This four-year-old entire by Written Tycoon is lightly raced having had three career starts for one win. His win came when he made his debut at Wangaratta in June of this year over 1100 metres. I rode him at his second start in a 3YO Handicap at Caulfield over 1400 metres at the end of the season where he finished just under four lengths behind Mystery Shot, who remains unbeaten. He was then sent for a break from training and resumed this preparation over 1000 metres at Albury, where it looked like they went too fast for him in the early stages before he closed off reasonably well. He steps up in distance for his second-up run and will be fitter with a run under his belt. I felt that he gave me a nice feel when I rode him at the end of last season and expect that he can make his presence felt today.

Race 7 is the BM70 Thoroughbred Club Handicap over 1500 metres, my ride here is NOT MINE (GER) who is trained by Tom Dabernig & Ben Hayes. This six-year-old imported gelding by Dabirsim (FR) started his career in Europe before racing in Hong Kong, and has had two runs in Australia. I rode him in trackwork in preparation for his first run in Australia and then rode him in his most recent race start, which was a few weeks ago at Caulfield. He was beaten by less than three lengths on soft ground over 1700 metres at Caulfield by Power Scheme, who has franked the form. I was really pleased with his performance last start and feel the change to his head gear with the winkers off and blinkers on will be an advantage to him, and he should be one of the main contenders in this. 

Kilmore Preview

Today I’m riding at Kilmore where the feature race is the Kilmore Cup. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 6 is the Listed Kilmore Cup over 1600 metres, my ride here is PANCHO who is trained by Chris Waller. This four-year-old gelding by Dissident is raced by Laurel Oak Bloodstock and partners. He comes into today with a race record of three wins and four placings from 19 starts. I rode him twice as a two-year-old at Flemington where we contested a handicap, and then a Listed race. Last year over the Flemington carnival he beat Russian Camelot in a 3-year-old 1800 metre race. The majority of his racing has been done in Sydney including four runs this preparation, with his last start being at Flemington over the Carnival in BM90 grade over 1800 metres where he finished fourth, just under three lengths from the winner. He comes into this race 16 days between runs, is dropping back in distance and carries the minimum weight of 56 kilos from a favourable barrier draw. If we have luck in running and he runs up to his best form he will take a lot of beating in this.

Ballarat Preview

Craig rides at Ballarat today. Watch the video preview below:

Moonee Valley Preview

This evening I’m riding at Moonee Valley under lights. The rail is out 7 metres and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 1 is the BM64 MVRC Membership On Sale Now Handicap over 1200 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is PASSIONATE LASS who is trained by Michael, Wayne & John Hawkes. This filly by Sebring is raced by Orbis Bloodstock. She’s had one start for one win where she was dominant at Mornington over 1200 metres on a track rated as a good 4. The horse she beat at Mornington was Energy Within, who although is still a maiden has been racing consistently without winning, so that is solid form. Passionate Lass will start from a low barrier draw for her second career start and is the horse they all have to beat.

Race 6 is the BM70 HeartKids Hero Handicap over 1600 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is DIAQUIN (NZ) who is trained by Nigel Blackiston. This four-year-old daughter of Sacred Falls has a race record of 15 starts for two wins and five minor placings and races in Ian Lewis’s colours. I rode her twice at the end of her three-year-old season, winning at Bendigo over 1400 metres on soft ground and then in the Rivette Final at Flemington where she was beaten by just over three lengths. She was then sent for a spell and resumed this preparation with a first-up run at Bendigo where she finished sixth and just over three lengths from the winner over 1300 metres. She steps up in distance for her second-up run and has drawn a tricky barrier, but we will have a good guide on how the track is playing by her race. She is a horse that usually settles in the second half of the field and makes ground late. If the track is playing fairly and allowing horses to make ground and we have luck from the barrier draw, she can be very competitive in this on her best form. 

Sandown Preview

Craig rides at Sandown today. Watch the video preview below:

Flemington Preview

Craig rides at Flemington today. Watch the video preview below:

Flemington Preview

Craig rides at Flemington today. Watch the video preview below:

Flemington Preview

Craig rides at Flemington today. Watch the video preview below:

Flemington Preview

Craig rides at Flemington today. Watch the video preview below: