Singapore Gold Cup Preview

Today I’m racing in Singapore where the feature race on the card is the Singapore Gold Cup. The forecast is for stormy weather so it will be interesting to see how much rain falls and how it affects the track.

Race 3 is the OCEAN PARK STAKES RESTRICTED MAIDEN (2 AND 3 YEAR OLD) over 1200 metres, my ride here is HUGO who is trained by Stephen Gray. He’s a three year old gelding by Smart Missile who has had two lifetime starts, finishing second on both occasions. He has drawn an inside barrier which is ideal as he races close to the speed. This looks a nice race for him to be winning his maiden.

Race 7 is the HAPPY VALLEY STAKES KRANJI STAKES C over 2000 metres, my ride here is MOLINEUX who is trained by Stephen Gray. He’s a four year old gelding by Savabeel that is owned by St George Stable. He won his last start over 1600 metres when he was ridden by Beau Mertens on October 7^thand has the benefit of a recent barrier trial to keep his fitness levels up to the mark. This will be his first attempt at the distance and he has drawn an outside barrier. If the track is racing evenly and the race is run to suit horses that are finishing off, he will be a horse that is going to be strong late.

Race 10 is the DESTER SINGAPORE GOLD CUP over 2000 metres, my ride here is SKY ROCKET who is trained by Stephen Gray. This five year old gelding by Darci Brahma is owned by the Sky Rocket Stable and runs here with the light weight of 50 kilos. His chances will be further enhanced if rain falls throughout the meeting as he appreciates yielding ground. He will jump from an inside barrier and is a horse that needs to relax throughout the early stages and conserve his energy to allow him to be strong late. This race has previously been run over 2200 metres and drops back to the 2000 this year, which will suit my horse. If there is genuine speed throughout the early stages and he relaxes well for me, I expect him to be finishing off strongly and will be one of the main chances.

Race 11 is the TSIM SHA TSUI STAKES CLASS 3 over 1200 metres, my ride here is CALCULATION who is trained by Lee Freedman. He’s a progressive three year old gelding by Street Boss who has had two starts in Singapore, winning both. Although he steps up in grade, he drops in weight here and has drawn a favourable barrier for a horse that races close to the speed. I’m hoping he has a good run in transit and can make it three from three. 

Stakes Day Preview

Today I’m racing at Flemington where it’s Stakes Day and it is also the final day of the Flemington carnival. The rail is out 8 metres and track is rated in the good range. I’m looking forward to walking the track to assess how it may play throughout the day given the amount of racing it’s had over the week.

Race 1 is the Melbourne’s Own 3AW Trophy over 1600 metres, my ride here is BALCAZAR who is trained by Lee & Shannon Hope. He’s a five year old gelding by Sebring who I have ridden to success in the past. He comes into this third up this preparation, is stepping up in distance and will carry the minimum weight of 54 kilos. He is a horse that settles in the second half of the field and there looks to be a good amount of pressure on paper, which will suit him. If he returns to his good form from last preparation he can finish over the top of them.

Race 2 is the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Plate over 2000 metres, my ride here is TOP PROSPECT (NZ) who is trained by Darren Weir. This five year old gelding by Swiss Ace runs in the colours of Australian Bloodstock. He started his racing career off in New Zealand and is having his second preparation in Australia. Although he hasn’t won a race in Victoria he has been racing very consistently. His first up run in the Horsham Cup over 1800 metres was pleasing and he closed the race off well to finish second. He steps up to the 2000 metres here and from his two attempts at the distance has finished second and third. He has drawn a nice barrier and should gain an economical run from the draw. He looks to be one of the main chances in this competitive race.

Race 3 is the Listed Watch Racing.com Springtime Stakes over 1400 metres for three year olds, my ride here is WAGNER who is trained by James Cummings. This colt by Bernardini is raced by Godolphin. I rode him two starts ago in the Guineas Prelude over 1400 at Caulfield where he struggled to get around the circuit. He dropped back in distance to 1200 metres at his most recent run at Moonee Valley, staying on well and finishing 2.3 lengths from the winner in fifth placing, in what was a fast run race. He steps up to the 1400 again here and will have winkers added to his head gear for the first time. He has drawn a wide barrier in a race where there looks to be genuine speed and if my instructions are to be conservative and allow him to finish off, he should be closing off strongly.

Race 5 is the Group 3 Queen Elizabeth Stakes over 2600 metres, my ride here is ORMITO (GER) who is trained by Darren Weir. He’s an imported six year old gelding by Mamool (IRE) that is race by Australian Bloodstock and partners. I’ve ridden him on five occasions and although I haven’t won on him, I have always finished in the top four. He comes into this fourth up and is reaching his preferred distance range. His last start effort was in the Bendigo Cup where he finished in ninth position but was beaten by less than five lengths. This is a strong field but on his best form he will make his presence felt.

Race 7 is one of the feature races on the card, it’s the W.F.A Group 1 VRC Sprint Classic over 1200 metres, my ride here is BRAVE SMASH (JPN) who is trained by Darren Weir. This six year old entire is by Tosen Phantom (JPN) and also runs in the colours of Australian Bloodstock. I rode him to success in the Group 1 Futurity Stakes over 1400 metres at Caulfield in February before being narrowly beaten at the course and distance at his next start in the Group 1 Newmarket, when finishing second. His last start run was at Moonee Valley where he produced a tough effort with the blinkers on to win the Group 1 Manikato Stakes over 1200. The race this year has produced a classic field of the best sprinters from around the world and I’m really looking forward to seeing how Brave Smash measures up. He has drawn a high barrier in a race where there should be a lot of pressure and if I can get him to conserve his energy throughout the early stages, I expect him to be fighting out the finish.

Race 8 is the last Group 1 race we have in Victoria for the year, it’s the Group 1 Seppelt Mackinnon Stakes over 2000 metres, my ride here is EXTRA BRUT who is trained by Darren Weir. This three year old colt by Domesday runs in the colours of Aquis Farm. He won the Group 1 Victorian Derby over 2500 metres as his last start and drops back in distance here, where under the W.F.A conditions of the race he will carry the light weight of 51 kilos. He has drawn a wide barrier in the field of 10 runners so it will be interesting to see how the track is playing and what my instructions are from the draw. He has shown versatility through his career, racing effectively when ridden both on and off speed. He is a quality colt who from his six starts to date has only been out of the top two placings once. If he has freshened up well and he makes the most of his light weight, he will take a lot of beating.

Race 9 is the last race of the 2018 Flemington Spring Carnival, it’s the BM80 Grand Handicap over 1100 metres, my ride here is ESPERANCE who is trained by James Cummings. This four year old gelding by Bernardini (USA) is raced by Godolphin. I’ve had one ride on him when he was a three year old having his second start at Sandown, he was a short priced favourite and produced an impressive performance to win by two lengths. He had been racing in Sydney for this preparation and was transferred to the Melbourne stables before his most recent run at Moonee Valley, where he finished off nicely into fourth place in a 955m race. He has drawn a high barrier which should place him nicely to the grandstand side of the track, assuming that’s the place to be. He carries 62 kilos here but is a quality horse who has the benefit of being exposed to the straight course previously and if he has a smooth run in transit and is able to build his momentum, he is one of the main chances.

Oaks Day Preview

Today I’m racing at Flemington where it’s Oaks Day and the third day of the carnival. The rail is out 5 metres and track is rated in the soft range. There has been significant rainfall in Melbourne this week and I’ll be interested to walk the track when I arrive on course.

Race 2 is the DrinkWise Plate over 1700 metres, my ride here is GLOBAL SANCTION who is trained by Grahame Begg. This is a capacity field with various form lines and it looks to be a strong edition this year. This four year old mare by Sebring runs in the colours of Pinecliff Racing. She’s been a consistent race mare throughout her career and has only missed a top three placing twice. She’s had three starts this preparation and comes into this as a last start winner. With a rating of 65 she looks well placed here where she will carry 57.5 kilos. She is stepping up slightly in distance which should be in her favour and she has winning form at the distance. She has the blinkers added to her head gear for the first time which should also be of benefit to her. She will appreciate the rain affected track conditions and is one of the main chances in this.

Race 3 is the BM90 Twitter Trophy over 1800 metres, my ride here is LEGALE who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This four year old gelding by Nicconi runs in the colours of the McAnulty family. He is a horse that will appreciate the soft track conditions today, with form on soft and heavy tracks. I have ridden him previously when he won his maiden in good style on a heavy surface at Ballarat. His last two runs have been very good, finishing second and fourth over 2000 metres. He comes back in distance to the 1800 here and has won over the distance. He has drawn a wide barrier and there doesn’t look to be too much speed on paper. He will carry 54 kilos and on his best form he will make his presence felt in this competitive race.

Race 4 is the BM90 Off The Track Subzero Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is STRATOCASTER (NZ) who is trained by Emma-Lee & David Browne. This race is for grey horses only and it’s a wonderful contest to watch. Stratocaster is a seven year old gelding by Mastercraftsman (IRE) who has made the trip over from New Zealand. I saw this horse race in September and thought he would be an ideal horse for this race based on his rating and performances. He won his last start, which was the New Zealand version of the grey’s race over 1400 metres and his trainers were keen for him to make the trip to Melbourne to target this race. He has the benefit of a recent jumpout to keep his fitness levels up to the mark for this. I feel with his good, consistent form that he will take a lot of beating in this.

Race 5 is the BM80 Melbourne Cup Carnival Country Final over 1600 metres, my ride here is COCHADA who is trained by Alexander Rae. He’s a lightly raced four year old gelding by Von Costa de Hero who I have a lot of time for and have ridden in all of his race starts. This race has been his target for the preparation and I’m looking forward to seeing how he measures up. I’m expecting he has taken natural improvement from his last start run and will have benefitted from the experience. I know he has the ability to win this, he just needs luck from an outside draw.

Race 6 is the Listed Absolut Stakes over 1000 metres, my ride here is THERMAL CURRENT who is trained by Darren Weir. He’s an eight year old gelding by Exceed And Excel who is raced by Contract Racing and partners. I’ve had two rides on him, with one of those being at the course and distance where he was unlucky and was beaten by a subsequent Group 1 winner in March. His two runs this preparation have both been excellent where he was beaten by less than two lengths in each. He steps up to Listed grade here and looks well placed being 2 kilos above the minimum. I feel his outside draw will be of benefit to him as the track will have deteriorated by this race. This is a highly competitive field and if we have luck in running and he finds his best form, he can make his presence felt.

Race 7 is the Listed TCL TV Stakes over 1800 metres, my ride here is PORT ROYAL who is trained by Alexander Rae. He’s a three year old colt by Captain Gerrard (IRE) who is still a maiden and is having his third race start here. The horse that finished second when he made his debut at Bairnsdale was the horse that finished second in the Derby, so he has strong form references coming into this Listed race. I’m expecting he has taken natural improvement from his two runs to date and it’s also interesting to note that the winner from his most recent run is contesting the Oaks today. He has drawn a wide barrier and he is a horse that generally settles in the second half of the field. This is a highly competitive race of good quality gallopers and I expect he will be given every opportunity to show his ability.

Race 8 is the Group 1 Kennedy Oaks over 2500 metres for three year old fillies, my ride here is AMPHITRITE who is trained by Darren Weir. She’s by Sebring and runs in the colours of Flying Start Syndications. I’ve had four rides on her for four wins, including my last ride on her where she won the Group 1 Thousand Guineas at Caulfield over 1600 metres. She then contested the Group 1 Empire Rose Stakes against the older mares last Saturday. She ran extremely well but wasn’t able to gain clear galloping room in the straight. She is stepping up sharply in distance however she has the class to win this. She has great form on soft tracks and if she runs out the trip, she will be winning this.

Race 9 is the Group 3 World Horse Racing Roses Stakes over 1100 metres for three year old fillies, my ride here is OUR LONG SALI who is trained by Patrick Payne. She’s by the good Tasmanian sire in Needs Further and is raced by Joe O’Neill and partners. She started her career in Tasmania where she was a dominant two year old. She contested the Group 3 Sires in Adelaide where she finished sixth and was beaten by less than two lengths. The horse that finished second in that race has subsequently been placed at Group 1 level multiple times. She was then transferred to Victoria and into the care of Patrick Payne. Her first up effort at Moonee Valley was very good and she was beaten by an official margin of 1.05 lengths. She has winning form on rain affected tracks and will be her first time racing over the straight course. She has drawn a low barrier and I will have a good idea on how the track has been racing throughout the day by this race. On her exposed form, I feel she can make her presence felt. 

Melbourne Cup Day Preview

Today I’m racing at Flemington where it’s Melbourne Cup Day. It’s the race that stops the nation and now that it’s been internationalised with a huge contingent of overseas runners in the race, it’s also the race that stops the world. It’s a long but exciting day of racing and one that my team has worked really hard towards. I’ve got a nice book of rides with some good chances and I just need a small amount of luck to get some great results. The rail is out 2 metres and track is rated in the good range with showers forecast.

Race 1 is the Group 3 Bumble Stakes over 1000 metres for two year old fillies, my ride here is CHAMPAGNE BOOM who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. She’s by Spirit of Boom and was very impressive when she won on debut at Caulfield in a Listed race. Although she hasn’t raced over the straight course at Flemington previously, she has the benefit of a recent jumpout at the track. With race experience and the benefit of being exposed to the straight course on her side and confidence from her last start win, she is the horse to beat.

Race 2 is the TAB APP Trophy over 1700 metres for mares, my ride here is SHOKORA who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This Nicconi four year old runs in the Devitt and Gordon colours. Her form measures up with the favourite in this race however the favourite has drawn an inside barrier and I will start from a wide gate. Shokora is stepping up in distance here which will suit her and will carry the minimum weight. If she has luck from the barriers and throughout the early stages of the race, she will be one of the main chances.

Race 3 is the BM90 Grinders Coffee Roasters Trophy over 1400 metres, my ride here is ECLAIR CALLING (NZ) who is trained by Phillip Stokes. This five year old gelding by Tartan Bearer (IRE) is raced by Thomas Li. I know this horse fairly well having ridden him in two of his past three runs and also in trackwork since his arrival to Melbourne. He won two starts ago at Caulfield when they put a claiming apprentice on him and his effort to the line was very good. He stepped up in distance to 1700 metres last start and I finished second on him at Caulfield. He races here at a course and distance that he is very effective at. I rode him recently at trackwork and was thrilled with the improvement I felt and the way he worked. From a middle barrier, he will gain an economical run in transit and based on his recent work and consistent racing form, he is the horse to beat.

Race 6 is the Listed Jim Beam Black Stakes over 1400 metres for three year old fillies, my ride here is ZIZZIS who is trained by Patrick Payne. This daughter of Sizzling is raced by Joe O’Neill and partners. I rode her last start at Caulfield and was successful when winning over 1400 metres. She jumped from a wide barrier on that day and made all the running without having too much pressure applied to her and was very tough in fighting out the finish. She has also drawn a wide barrier here and this profiles as a different race entirely. It will be interesting to see how the track plays throughout the day and what my instructions are from the draw. If the track deteriorates due to bad weather, it will further enhance my horses’ chances having been exposed to soft ground previously. She has an adaptable racing style and is effective on all track conditions and comes into this with confidence from her last start win. This is a highly competitive field and she drops half a kilo in weight from her most recent run. She is a classy filly and if she produces the same will to win here, she will be one of the main chances again.

Race 7 is the Group 1 Lexus Melbourne Cup over 3200 metres, my ride here is YOUNGSTAR who is trained by Chris Waller. She’s a four year old mare by High Chaparral (IRE) and is the only mare in the field. In my opinion, she is the best credentialed Australasian runner to take on the international raiders. She has drawn a nice barrier in 8 and has the light weight of 51.5 kilos. She hasn’t been tested over the two miles previously however her breeding and recent racing performances indicate that she will relish the extra distance. She tends to settle in the middle to second half of the field and needs some luck in running. Her run two starts ago where she finished second to the mighty mare Winx, shows me she has the quality and performs well at the course. It is a very open race this year, but if we have luck in running she will make her presence felt.

Race 9 is the Listed MSS Security Sprint over 1200 metres, my ride here is MAN OF HIS WORD who is trained by Dean Krongold. This six year old gelding by Lope de Vega (IRE) is raced by Grand Syndicates. I rode him in a barrier trial at Cranbourne for his new trainer before he resumed first up and I was pleased with his effort. His first up performance at Caulfield was extremely good where he had no luck and was beaten by an official margin of 1.35 lengths. I felt with clear running in the straight he would have won. He comes into this second up and has the blinkers applied to his head gear. This will be his first attempt over the straight course so I will have to be mindful of that. He has drawn a high barrier which should be beneficial, given the amount of racing the track will have had by this time of the day. He comes into this fitter for his first up run, carrying the minimum weight and with luck in running, provided he handles the straight, is the one they have to beat.

Race 10 is the Group 3 The Hong Kong Jockey Club Stakes over 1400 metres for mares, my ride here is FUHRYK who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This five year old by Star Witness is raced by Michael Christian and partners. I’ve ridden her with success in previous preparations and she is Group 1 placed. Her recent runs have been very good and indicate that she is racing back to her best form. She can be tricky in the barriers as she gets a bit claustrophobic which can cause her to jump slowly. If she can begin well here, from an inside draw she can race close to the speed but she has been slow out at her recent starts, therefore needing the races run to suit her. I was really impressed with her last start effort to the line and if she maintains that form, she is one of the main chances in an open race. 

Derby Day Preview

Today I’m racing at Flemington where it’s Derby Day. I’m really looking forward to the day of racing ahead as it’s the start of the Flemington Carnival. The rail is in the true position and track is rated in the good range.

Race 1 is The Group 3 Carbine Club Stakes over 1600 metres for three year olds, my ride here is QUACKERJACK who is trained by Mark Newnham. This colt by Not a Single Doubt has had eight starts and has won three of those. He is having his first start in Melbourne and comes into this with strong Sydney form, confidence from his last start victory and a win at the distance. He has drawn a wide barrier and if he can go forward and find a position on-speed without doing too much work, he will be in this for a long way.

Race 2 is the Group 2 Mumm Wakeful Stakes over 2000 metres for three year old fillies, my ride here is SKYWAY STAR who is trained by Symon Wilde. She is a daughter of Americain who has had three starts and is still a maiden. Her two runs this preparation have been solid and she was narrowly defeated last time out at Ballarat over 1400 metres. It looks like the step up in distance here will suit her and I expect her to be competitive.

Race 3 is the Group 2 The TAB Stakes over 1200 metres, my ride here is HAVASAY who is trained by Liam Birchley. He’s a six year old gelding by Rothesay who races second up for the preparation here today. He has excellent second up form and from his six attempts has a record of two wins and three placings. He ran very well first up at Caulfield and since then I have ridden him in an official trial at Cranbourne and I liked the feel he gave me. Osborne Bulls is the favourite in this race who, last start competed in The Everest run under WFA conditions, where he finished third, but if there is a horse that can beat him it is Havasay, who will carry the light weight of 53 kilos.

Race 4 is the Group 3 Lexus Stakes over 2500 metres, my ride here is SIXTIES GROOVE (IRE) who is trained by Darren Weir. This race is the last chance for eligible horses to get into the Melbourne Cup should they win. Sixties Groove is a six year old gelding by Sixties Icon (GB) who is raced by Australian Bloodstock. He is a horse I know fairly well and I’ve had two rides on him for two wins including last start, where we won the Moe Cup over 2050 metres. He comes into this third up with a drop in weight, is stepping up in distance and I expect him to be one of the main chances.

Race 5 is the Group 1 Coolmore Stud Stakes over 1200 metres for three year olds, my ride here is ENCRYPTION who is trained by James Cummings. This colt by Lonhro is raced by Godolphin. I’ve ridden him at his past three starts and two starts ago he was successful at the course and distance when winning the Group 2 Danehill Stakes. He then finished second to Written By in the Blue Sapphire at Caulfield. I felt Encryption would take further improvement after the Caulfield run as he was 4 weeks between runs. He has been set for this race and it gives me great confidence that he has winning form over the straight course. He has drawn a high barrier so it will be interesting to see how the track plays. He is horse that settles in the second half of the field and I will be hoping for a good amount of pressure to be put on the leaders. I’m very confident he goes into this as one of the main chances.

Race 6 is the WFA Group 1 Empire Rose Stakes over 1600 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is OOHOOD who is trained by Tony McEvoy. She’s a three year old filly by I Am Invincible who runs in the colours of Sheikh Mohammed Bin Khalifa Al Maktoum. She has excellent form from her 11 career starts, only missing a top three placing three times and has competed at the highest level in group company for most of her career. She is one of four fillies taking on the older mares today. The last two editions of this race have been won by fillies and my horse has strong enough form to continue the trend. Two starts ago she won her maiden in the Group 1 Flight Stakes before running a terrific race against the colts and gelding in the Group 1 Caulfield Guineas where she finished third. She has a tendency to be slow from the barriers, if I can get her to begin well and she gains an economical run in transit from an inside draw, she is one of the main chances.

Race 8 is the Group 1 Kennedy Mile over 1600 metres, my ride here is BEST OF DAYS (GB) who is trained by James Cummings. This five year old entire by Azamour (IRE) is raced by Godolphin. Since his arrival to Australia he has only been out of the top three placings once and has been racing very consistently. He comes into this at peak fitness and with confidence from his last start victory. He has drawn an inside barrier and will gain an economical run in transit. He has the blinkers added to his head gear for the first time and carries 52 kilos. I feel he is one of the main chances in what is a highly competitive edition of this race.

Race 9 is the Group 3 Furphy Sprint over 1100 metres, my ride here is JORDA who is trained by James Cummings. This four year old mare by Exceed And Excel also runs in the colours of Godolphin. She has a good record at Flemington with winning form at the course and distance last year. Her recent form has not been as strong as last year but she did encounter a heavy track three starts ago, which she did not appreciate. This will be my first ride on her and I will have a good guide on how the track has been racing throughout the day to give her every possible chance to reproduce her good form from last Spring. 

Sale Preview

Today I’m racing at Sale where it’s their Cup day. The rail is in the true position and track is rated in the good range.

Race 2 is the Ladbrokes Back Yourself 3YO Maiden Plate over 1400 metres, my ride here is FIRSTCLASS DREAMER who is trained by Matthew Brown. He’s a three year old gelding by Dream Ahead who has had eight starts, placing at three of those. He placed second here two starts ago over the same distance and I rode him on that occasion. I was impressed with his performance on that day and he gave me the feel of a horse with above average ability however, as a colt, he had his mind on other things. He has since been gelded which will be a huge advantage to him and he is the horse to beat.

Race 5 is the WorkforceXS The Melbourne Cup Carnival Country Series Heat 7 over 1400 metres, my ride here is COCHADA who is trained by Alexander Rae. He’s a lightly raced four year old gelding by Von Costa de Hero who has had three starts and hasn’t missed the top three placings. I’ve ridden him in all of his career starts and he is a horse I have a lot of time for. His effort at the end of his last preparation where he won at the course and distance was impressive. I rode him in a recent official trial in preparation for his return to racing and loved the improvement that he displayed. His trainer has been very patient with him and I can see the advantage of that in his development. If he races the way he trialled, he will take a lot of beating in this and will qualify for the final of this series over the Flemington Carnival.

Race 7 is the Listed Ladbrokes Sale Cup over 1600 metres, my ride here is FASTNET TEMPEST (IRE) who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This six year old gelding by Fastnet Rock is raced by OTI Racing and partners. I’ve had two rides on him for a win and a second placing. I rode him at his most recent start where he finished second at Caulfield in a Listed race over 1400 metres. The horse that won that race, Iconoclasm, has subsequently won again at Mooney Valley on Friday night, franking the form. He has a wide barrier to contend with and will carry 59 kilos, however he is the best horse in the race and if he maintains his good form and the track is racing evenly, allowing horses to close off, he will be winning. It would be great to see him win this after finishing second last year. 

Moonee Valley Preview

Today I’m racing at Moonee Valley where it’s Cox Plate day. The rail is in the true position and track is rated in the good range. I’m looking forward to arriving on course and walking the track as the rail was in the same position for last night’s meeting.

Race 2 is the Strathmore Community Bendigo Bank Handicap over 955 metres, my ride here is INVINCIBLE AL who is trained by Patrick Payne. This five year old gelding by I Am Invincible is raced by Joe O’Neill and partners. He’s had a freshen up coming into this and this is a pattern that has seen him perform well in the past. From his 13 starts at the distance his record is five wins and three placings. If the track is racing evenly and there is no bias with the rail in the true position, then he should be given every opportunity even though he has drawn a wide barrier. He is a horse that usually races off speed however four starts ago in Adelaide he was able to sit wide and on speed to produce a dominant winning performance. He looks well placed here as he carries two kilos above the minimum and is four kilos off the top weight. With luck in running on his best form, he is one of the main chances.

Race 5 is the Group 3 1300 Australia Stakes over 1200 metres, my ride here is MORE THAN EXCEED (NZ) who is trained by Phillip Stokes. This three year old colt by More Than Ready is raced by Raffles Thoroughbred Racing. I rode him last start at Flemington where, with the blinkers on, he was keen and went forward from a wide barrier. He produced a solid effort and was beaten by less than a length in what is a strong form race with the second horse winning a stakes race at its next start. I galloped More Than Exceed at Moonee Valley on Tuesday morning in preparation for this race and he was fresh in his attitude and worked very well. He has drawn a nice barrier and if his second up run can be forgiven, he is one of the main chances.

Race 6 is the Group 2 Aquis Farm Fillies Classic over 1600 metres, my ride here is MUSIC BAY who is trained by Phillip Stokes. This three year old filly by Choisir started her preparation off in great fashion when she finished second to Smart Melody at Flemington over 1100 metres. I rode her in her next run at Caulfield where she stepped up in distance to 1400 metres and was disappointing and wanted to hang out in running. Her most recent run was in the Group 1 Thousand Guineas over 1600 metres, she raced keenly and was beaten by less than five lengths. She drops back in grade here and if she can perform up to her trackwork on Tuesday morning, she will take a lot of beating in this and I feel she has the ability to win a black type race.

Race 8 is the Group 2 McCafe Moonee Valley Gold Cup over 2500 metres, my ride here is RED CARDINAL (IRE) who is trained by Darren Weir. This race is an interesting one as it provides another option for horses that are targeting the Melbourne Cup. Red Cardinal is a seven year old gelding by Montjeu who is raced by Australian Bloodstock and partners. After running in last year’s Melbourne Cup he has been racing over unsuitable distances and has been building towards this. At his most recent start in Sydney over a similar distance he finished in third placing when racing on a rain affected track. He looked like he would take further benefit from that run and I thought his effort was quite good. If he finds his best form he can be very competitive here.

Race 10 is the Group 2 Drummond Golf Vase over 2040 metres, my ride here is APPROACH DISCREET who is trained by Darren Weir. This three year old colt by Dawn Approach is raced by Winnie Law. He’s lightly raced and from his six starts has a record of two wins and two placings. It’s interesting to note that although he was a beaten favourite last start in Adelaide, he finished fifth being beaten by an official margin of 0.4 length. He has drawn a wide barrier here however has been ridden effectively both on and off speed, so it will be interesting to see how the track is racing and what my instructions are pre-race. On his consistent and progressive form, he will make his presence felt and his performance here will dictate if he backs up in seven days’ time in the Group 1 AAMI Victorian Derby at Flemington.

Caulfield Cup Preview

Today I’m racing at Caulfield where the main race of the day is the Stella Artois Caulfield Cup. The rail is out six metres and track is rated in the good range, with showers forecast throughout the morning.

Race 1 is the QMS Media Plate over 1400 metres, my ride here is ZIZZIS who is trained by Patrick Payne. This filly by Sizzling is raced by Joe O’Neill and partners. She started her career off in good fashion winning her first two races as a two year old, with one of those being the Magic Millions Classic in Adelaide. Since resuming as a three year old she has contested a Listed race over 1100 metres and a Group 3 race over 1200 metres, both against fillies and has finished sixth in both. She steps up to the 1400 for the first time here and has drawn a wide barrier in a small field. It will be interesting to see what my instructions are pre-race as she has won when being ridden on, and off speed. On her best form, she will be one of the main chances.

Race 3 is the Group 2 McCafe Caulfield Sprint over 1000 metres, my ride here is SUPER TOO who is trained by Marc Conners. This five year old mare by Hinchinbrook is one of the quickest horses racing in Australia. Although I’ve never ridden her, I have ridden against her in races and watched her video’s and she has an amazingly high cruising speed. She has been disappointing in her two runs this preparation but she comes into this on the minimum weight with the winkers on for the first time. If she shows her usual speed she will be in this for a long way.

Race 5 is the Group 3 New Zealand Bloodstock Ethereal Stakes over 2000 metres for three year old fillies, my ride here is COLLECTABLE who is trained by Robbie Griffiths. She’s by Sebring and is race by Australian Thoroughbred Bloodstock and partners. Although she is still a maiden, she has had three starts and has finished second on each occasion. She raced against the older horses last time out over 1755 metres and was narrowly beaten. I rode her in her first two starts and feel she has taken a good amount of improvement each time she has raced. The step up in distance here will be in her favour but she has an outside barrier draw to contend with. She will need luck in running and if she can run well here it will help with her placement in the fillies staying races throughout the Spring Carnival.

Race 8 is the Group 1 Stella Artois Caulfield Cup over 2400 metres, my ride here is KINGS WILL DREAM (IRE) who is trained by Darren Weir. This five year old gelding by Casamento (IRE) was imported to Australia and started his career off winning a BM64 at Warrnambool and was undefeated in his first preparation, which concluded with him winning the Listed Mornington Cup and provided him an exemption from the ballot, gaining entry into this race. He has been set for this race by his trainer and when he resumed this preparation the stable reported he had put on 50 kilos and developed physically. He has improved his racing mannerism this preparation and most importantly, has taken the step up to W.F.A level, racing against the best horses we have in Australia. He comes into this with 53 kilos and will start from a very good barrier. He is versatile horse in regards to track conditions and his racing pattern. I had my first ride on him in the Turnbull Stakes where we finished third behind the mighty Winx and I was delighted with the way he went. I am really looking forward to riding him in this year’s edition, as I believe he is going to be one of the stars of weight for age racing in Australia and he can give me my third Caulfield Cup.

Race 9 is the Group 2 Schweppes Tristarc Stakes over 1400 metres for mares, my ride here is FUHRYK who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This daughter of Star Witness steps up to the 1400 for the first time this preparation and has a change to her head gear, with the blinkers off and the winkers on for the first time. I believe the outside barrier here will be in her favour provided she doesn’t have to cover too much extra ground, as she is a mare that appreciates galloping room. If she can find her best form she will make her presence felt. 

Moe Cup Preview

Today I’m racing at Moe where it’s their Cup Day, I’m only going for the one ride and that’s in the feature race of the day. The rail is in the true position and track is rated a soft 6.

Race 7 is the MOE OPTICAL CUP Presented by the Win Network over 2050 metres, my ride here is SIXTIES GROOVE (IRE) who is trained by Darren Weir. This imported gelding by Sixties Icon (GB) is raced by Australian Bloodstock and partners. His first preparation in Australia saw him win two races over this distance at Flemington. I won one of those races on him where he dominated a small field, he then won his next start before going for a spell. His first up run this preparation saw him finish third at Ballarat over 1600 metres in the Gold Nugget where he carried 61.5 kilos and was beaten by just over two lengths. He carries the top weight today of 60 kilos and there is a 6-kilo weight spread across the field. He races second up here and will need a smooth run in transit but he clearly is the class horse of the field. He is a horse I have a lot of time for and this race will provide a good guide on which direction he takes over the Spring Carnival and his class should prevail today. 

Caulfield Preview

Today I’m racing at Caulfield. I’m really looking forward to returning to the course after a successful day on Saturday where I rode three winners and took out the Group 1 Thousand Guineas. I did incur a suspension on Saturday and will miss next week’s Geelong Cup meeting on Wednesday and the Manikato Stakes meeting at Moonee Valley on Friday night and I return to riding on Cox Plate Day. The rail is in the true position and given the amount of overnight rain we have had, I’m looking forward to walking the track today prior to the first.

Race 1 is the BM84 Ladbrokes Multiverse Hcp over 2400 metres, my ride here is ROYAL MUSIC (IRE) who is trained by Darren Weir. This imported five year old entire by Teofilo is raced by Australian Bloodstock and partners. He’s had five starts since his arrival to Australia, winning three of those. He comes into this race full of confidence having won his past two starts and is stepping up in distance and grade. This is a small but competitive field with one of his rivals running well in the recent Group 1 Metropolitan in Sydney. He is a horse that has won just short of this distance in Europe and if he can get a smooth run in transit will be one of the main chances.

Race 2 is the BM70 DrinkWise Plate over 1600 metres, my ride here is SILENT EXPLORER who is trained by David Payne. He is a lightly raced three year old gelding by Lope de Vega who from his seven career starts has won or placed at more than half. He looks like a big strong horse who has a tendency to hang out in his races in Sydney. He will be having his first run the Melbourne way of going so it will be interesting to see how he reacts when placed under pressure around the circuit. He has drawn an outside barrier and if he can reproduce his solid Sydney form, and handles the circuit, he will take a lot of running down.

Race 4 is the FDC Handicap over 1700 metres, my ride here is ECLAIR CALLING (NZ) who is trained by Phillip Stokes. This five year old gelding by Tartan Bearer is raced by Thomas Li. He is a horse that prefers a firmer surface so hopefully the track is not too rain affected. His last two runs in Melbourne have seen him produce a win at the course and place third in a Listed race when I rode him at Flemington two starts ago. He steps up to the 1700 here and he hasn’t won past 1600 metres, so this will be a good test for him. I have ridden him recently in track work and was impressed with the feel he gave me and the confidence he has taken from his last start victory. If he runs out the distance, I can see him winning this.

Race 5 is the Group 3 Catanach's Jewellers Blue Sapphire Stakes over 1200 metres for three year olds, my ride here is ENCRYPTION who is trained by James Cummings. This colt by Lonhro is raced by Godolphin. This is a small but competitive field with a total of six runners that include the Group 1 Blue Diamond winner in Written By, who will start favourite in this race. My horse is a last start Group 2 winner who won the Danehill in good fashion when the blinkers were added for the first time. I rode him recently in a jumpout at Flemington with no blinkers and was pleased with the progression he has made. He has drawn a middle barrier in this small field, with small fields sometimes turning into a tactical race. He usually gets back and settles in the second half of the field. If this race is run to suit him and based on the good feel he gave me recently, he can win this.

Race 6 is the Ted Baker Ladies' Day Vase over 1600 metres, my ride here is LA BELLA DIOSA (NZ) who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. She’s a five year old mare by So You Think who started her racing career in New Zealand. She won first up this preparation at this course and her last two starts have been over 1400 metres in Group 2 company where she has run well, finishing fifth on both occasions. I rode her in her most recent start where my instructions were to have her travelling comfortably and have her finish the race off. She is a versatile mare who handles all conditions and I expect she can be competitive here again today.

Race 7 is the Listed Ladbrokes Village Stakes over 1200 metres, my ride here is MAN OF HIS WORD who is trained by Dean Krongold. This six year old gelding started his career off in Melbourne before being transferred to Queensland. He has been very competitive and finished third in a G2 W.F.A race over 1800 metres last preparation. He runs first up here and although he hasn’t won when racing fresh, he has won twice over the distance. I rode him in a recent official trial at Cranbourne in preparation for this and he comes into this with changes to his head gear. I was pleased with the way he closed his trial off and expect him to do the same in this race, on his best form he will make his presence felt.

Race 8 is the BM78 Ladbrokes Odds Boost Exotics Hcp over 2000 metres, my ride here is TAVONIAN (NZ) who is trained by Lee & Shannon Hope. This six year old gelding by Tavistock found form last start where he dominated a BM70 race. He steps up in grade and carries the minimum weight here and will come into this with confidence from this last start effort. He has shown glimpses of being up to this grade throughout his career and if he does so today he will make his presence felt.

Caulfield Preview

Today I’m racing at Caulfield where it’s Guineas Day. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated a Good 4. There are two major race meetings being held in Australia today with one being at Caulfield and the other in Sydney, where The Everest will be contested.

Race 1 is the Listed Inglis Debutant Stakes over 1000 metres for two year olds, my ride here is CHAMPAGNE BOOM who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This filly by Spirit of Boom is having her first lifetime start here and I have ridden her in two jumpouts at Flemington. She also has the benefit of having had an official trial at Wodonga where she won impressively last month. When I rode her at Flemington she was very professional and did everything correctly. She has the blinkers added to her head gear for her debut run, has drawn a middle barrier and I’m sure if she brings her good attitude and trial form to the races, she will be one of the main chances.

Race 2 is the Listed The Big Screen Company Weekend Hussler Stakes over 1400 metres, my ride here is FASTNET TEMPEST (IRE) who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This six year old gelding by Fastnet Rock is raced by O T I Racing and partners. I’ve only had the one ride on him where I was successful at the course and distance last preparation. He comes into this third up following on from two solid runs. His first up run this preparation saw him finish less than three lengths behind Night's Watch (NZ), who is now qualified for next weekend’s Caulfield Cup. At his most recent run, although he finished last, he was less than five lengths from the winner in the Group 1 Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes. He takes a step back in grade here and looks to be one of the main chances against this competitive field.

Race 3 is the Group 3 Thoroughbred Club Stakes over 1200 metres for three year old fillies, my ride here is ASSERTIVE PLAY who is trained by Phillip Stokes. This daughter of Akeed Mofeed (GB) is raced by Goldin Farms. She was undefeated as a two year old winning at both of her runs. She resumed in Melbourne as a three year old and I’ve ridden her on both occasions. She was unlucky first up in Listed grade at Moonee Valley where she was beaten by less than one length. She stepped up in distance to 1400 metres at her next start and I felt she had gone amiss in the straight as she didn’t feel right in her action when she was pulling up. She has since been cleared with no significant findings and after her setback returns here over the 1200. If her last start can be forgiven and she returns to her good form, with luck in running, I can see her winning this.

Race 4 is the Group 3 Cape Grim Beef Steaks over 1200 metres for mares, my ride here is FRAGONARD who is trained by James Cummings. This five year old mare by New Approach (IRE) is raced by Godolphin. I’ve ridden her at various times throughout her career and most recently rode her when she resumed this preparation at Caulfield and we finished second. The slight step up in distance will suit her and although she has drawn a wide barrier, if she doesn’t have to do too much work to take up a position close to the speed, I expect she will be very competitive.

Race 5 is the W.F.A Group 2 Keno Schillaci Stakes over 1100 metres, my ride here is BALL OF MUSCLE who is trained by Joe Pride. He’s had three runs this preparation and was successful first up when racing at the track and distance before winning again second up at Randwick at Group 2 level. His next effort was in the Group 1 Moir Stakes at Moonee Valley where he finished last, if you can forgive him for that run and he returns to his good form, he will take a lot of running down. He is a bold horse that races on-speed and has unfortunately drawn an outside barrier.

Race 6 is the Group 1 Schweppes Thousand Guineas over 1600 metres for three year old fillies, my ride here is AMPHITRITE who is trained by Darren Weir. This daughter of Sebring is raced by Flying Start Syndications and partners. I’ve ridden her in her three runs this campaign, winning all three on her. She has progressed from winning her maiden first up this preparation to winning a Group 2 1600 metre race at her most recent start, seven days ago. Unfortunately, she has an outside barrier to contend with and is a horse that generally settles in the mid to second half of the field and will need luck in running. This will be the first time she has raced around the Caulfield circuit and I’ll be mindful of that throughout running. I’ve been really impressed with the progression she has made and I’m confident she can take the next step.

Race 7 is the Group 1 Aquis Toorak Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is CLIFF’S EDGE who is trained by Darren Weir. This four year old entire by Canford Cliffs (IRE) was a standout three year old last season in Victoria. He’s had three runs this preparation, winning his most recent start over 1400 metres at Caulfield on September 30^th. He comes into this race with confidence from his last start win and will carry the minimum weight of 52 kilos. He also has a tricky barrier draw to contend with in this Group 1 feature and there looks to be a lot of speed on paper. This is a quality field of gallopers and if he has luck from the draw and runs up to his best form, he will be one of the main chances.

Race 10 is the Group 2 Ladbrokes Herbert Power Stakes over 2400 metres, my ride here is BIG DUKE (IRE) who is trained by Darren Weir. This seven year old gelding by Raven’s Pass (USA) is raced by Australian Bloodstock and partners. I’ve had two rides on him for two wins, both of which were in Sydney in the Autumn of last year. He has had four runs this preparation and will be at peak fitness for this. He ran extremely well last start at Randwick where he contested The Metropolitan at Group 1 level. He is a classy galloper who finished fourth in last year’s Melbourne Cup and on his best form, can win this.  

Bairnsdale Preview

Today I’m flying to Bairnsdale for two rides. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated a Good 4.

Race 1 is the Fennings Timbers Maiden Plate over 1000 metres, my ride here is OCEANITY who is trained by Robbie Griffiths. This three year old colt by Snitzel is raced by Australian Thoroughbred Bloodstock and partners. He’s had one start where he finished second on debut last preparation as a two year old at Sandown. He was strong through the line in that race and the form around him is good. I have ridden him in a jumpout at Cranbourne in preparation for his return to racing as a three year old and feel that he has above average ability. His main opposition will be the two unraced horses, however my horse has previous race experience on his side. He is a lovely colt and with luck from an outside barrier, is the horse to beat.

Race 2 is the Bet 365 Bairnsdale 3yo Maiden Plate over 1200 metres, my ride here is IGNITER who is trained by Robbie Griffiths. This three year old colt by Snitzel is also raced by Australian Thoroughbred Bloodstock and partners. He had two runs as a two year old and was beaten by less than a length on debut at Sale, I finished second in that race and my horse went on to win his next start by three lengths in a maiden. IGNITER showed a good amount of ability on that day while still doing a few things wrong and looked like he would be better for the experience of that preparation. I also jumped him out recently at Cranbourne and was pleased with his effort and felt he will improve again when he races over an increased distance range. He has also drawn a wide barrier but I feel with some luck, this is a race he can win and progress through his grades. 

Flemington Preview

Today I’m racing at Flemington where it’s Turnbull Stakes Day. The rail is out nine metres and the track is rated a Good 4. Winx is the short-priced favourite going into this year’s feature race, she dominated the field last year beating Humidor, who is a multiple Group 1 winner and it has been reported that this will be the last time she races at Flemington. I’m looking forward to the day’s racing and a huge crowd is anticipated.

Race 1 is the Listed Maribyrnong Trial Stakes over 1000 metres, my ride here is SUN CITY who is trained by Tony McEvoy. This is the first race for the new season two year olds in Victoria. Sun City is a colt by Zoustar who is raced by Qatar Bloodstock and partners. I rode him in a recent official trial at Cranbourne where I was asked to ride him off the speed, I was pleased with the feel he gave me and he travelled very naturally. He also has the benefit of having had a jumpout up the Flemington straight recently. His attitude was completely different at Flemington for the jumpout, he was very stirred up and flighty. He was slow away from the barriers but I liked the way he handled the straight and closed off when I asked him for an effort. He’s shown good ability and if he handles the raceday conditions and pressure here today, he will take a lot of beating.

Race 2 is the Listed Antler Luggage Stakes over 1400 metres, my ride here is MORE THAN EXCEED (NZ) who is trained by Phillip Stokes. This three year old colt by More Than Ready (USA) is raced by Raffles Thoroughbred Racing and partners. He’s had six career starts and has recorded two wins and a second placing. He won first up this preparation at Morphettville over 1050 metres in good style before racing at Caulfield second up where he looked plain and finished second last. He will wear blinkers and a tongue tie for the first time here. This will be my first ride on him and we will need luck from an outside barrier draw in this very competitive race. On his best form and if the changes to his head gear assist him, he will make his presence felt.

Race 4 is the Listed UCI Stakes over 1800 metres, my ride here is RESURGE who is trained by Tony McEvoy. This three year old colt by So You Think is raced by First Light Racing and partners. He’s had five lifetime starts and has finished first and second with three unplaced runs. This will be my first ride on him and from watching his replay’s he looks a strong, solid type of colt who will appreciate the step up in distance. He has drawn well and should gain an economical run in transit from the barrier. His performance here will give the stable a strong indication of the path he takes for the rest of the Spring and they are confident he will run well and be a Derby prospect.

Race 5 is the Group 1 TAB Turnbull Stakes over 2000 metres, my ride here is KINGS WILL DREAM (IRE) who is trained by Darren Weir. This five year old gelding by Casamento (IRE) was undefeated in Australia in his first five race starts. He arrived to the country on a low rating of 65 and is now rated 107. He has proven that he is one of the best W.F.A horses in the land after his three runs this preparation at the elite level and will be my ride in the Caulfield Cup, where he carries 53 kilos. This is a big task taking on the great mare in Winx, but if for some reason she doesn’t perform as expected my horse is the horse that will be winning. I’m really looking forward to having my first ride on him in front of the big crowd today.

Race 7 is the Group 3 The Bart Cummings over 2500 metres, my ride here is YOGI (NZ) who is trained by Darren Weir. The winner of this race is exempt from the ballot of the Melbourne Cup. Yogi is a six year old gelding by Raise the Flag (GB) who is raced by Australian Thoroughbred Bloodstock and partners. He’s had four runs at the distance for two wins with one of those being at the course. He is horse that the trainer and connections have been very patient with and he has really developed and matured mentally of late. He always needs luck in running as his run style is to settle near the rear of the field and show no early speed. Every horse in this race is trying to earn the ballot exemption into the Melbourne Cup and this is a highly competitive field. I feel returning to the spacious track of Flemington will suit him as will the step up in distance and drop in weight and I expect he will take a lot of beating.

Race 8 is the Group 2 TAB Edward Manifold Stakes over 1600 metres, my ride here is AMPHITRITE who is trained by Darren Weir. She’s a filly by Sebring who I have ridden at both her runs this preparation, winning both. She steps up in distance to the 1600 for the first time which I feel will suit her, has drawn a middle barrier and drops in weight here and is the horse they all have to beat.

Race 9 is the Group 2 Blazer Stakes over 1400 metres, my ride here is LA BELLA DIOSA (NZ) who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This five year old mare by So You Think (NZ) is extremely well placed under the conditions of this race as she has a rating of 104 and carriers the minimum weight. Her three runs since being transferred to her new trainers in Victoria have been solid with one of those including a first up win this preparation at Caulfield. She has drawn a favourable barrier and is one of the main chances in this. 

Moonee Valley Preview

Tonight I’m racing at Moonee Valley. The rail is out seven metres and the track is rated a Good 4.

Race 2 is the Independent Turf Services Handicap over 1000 metres, my ride here is SEGOUIN who is trained by Alexander Rae. This five year old mare by Captain Gerrard is lightly raced and from her four career starts to date has a record of two wins and a second placing. She’s had two runs this preparation and is in good form, finishing second first up before winning at her most recent start and comes into this four weeks between runs. I rode her recently in a jumpout at Cranbourne where I was asked to ride her back in the field, she will have taken a good amount of benefit from that experience as she was a bit new when racing behind and in-between runners, but closed off well when asked for an effort. The purpose of riding her back in that heat was to teach and expose her to those conditions as she is generally a horse that races on-speed and her trainer was well aware that given the quick tempo of the Moonee Valley races, she may not be able to take up a leading position. She is a smaller type of filly who tries hard and has shown a good amount of ability. There looks to be good speed in this race and it will be run at a fast tempo. She has drawn to get an economical run from the barrier and if she has luck in running can continue her good form this preparation.

Ballarat Preview

Today I’m heading to Ballarat for one ride. The rail is out seven metres from the 600 to the winning post and the track is rated a Good 4.

Race 1 is the Pipe Pro Directional Drilling Maiden Plate over 1000 metres, my ride here is AMOR FATI who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This three year old filly by Star Witness runs in the colours of Widden Stud. She’s had four jumpouts at Flemington and I rode her in her most recent jumpout last Friday where I was very impressed with her performance. She is still learning and I expect she will improve and benefit for having her first experience under raceday conditions and pressure today but she has shown above average ability in her work at home. She is a well related filly who is a lovely, strong type and I’m looking forward to seeing how she performs at her debut run today. 

Caulfield Preview

Today I’m racing at Caulfield. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated a Good 4.

Race 4 is the Ladbrokes Back Yourself Handicap over 1100 metres, it’s a BM90 for mares and my ride here is FRAGONARD who is trained by James Cummings. This five year old daughter of New Approach is raced by Godolphin. She runs first up here and has a very good record when racing fresh, from her four attempts she has won three times. I rode her recently in a jumpout at Flemington in preparation for this and was pleased with her effort. She is a mare that I know well having ridden her to success first up two preparations ago. She has strengthened up and is a lot more relaxed in her mannerisms as an older mare now. This is a very competitive race but on her best form and on the feel she has given me recently, she is one of the main chances.

Race 6 is the Group 3 Ladbrokes Caulfield Guineas Prelude over 1400 metres, my ride here is WAGNER who is trained by James Cummings. This three year old colt by Bernardini is also raced by Godolphin. He is building an impressive record as he’s had five starts and hasn’t missed the top three placings and is undefeated this preparation. This will be the first time he has raced the Melbourne way of going, so I’ll have to be mindful of that as Sydney horses can often find the Caulfield circuit difficult at their first attempt and this will also be his first attempt at the 1400. I’m looking forward to having my first ride on him and if he were to be successful today, it would put him in a great position leading into the Group 1 Caulfield Guineas in two weeks. He’s drawn a nice middle barrier and looks like he will take a lot of beating.

Race 7 is the Group 2 Schweppes Thousand Guineas Prelude over 1400 metres, my ride here is MUSIC BAY who is trained by Phillip Stokes. This three year old filly by Choisir is lightly raced having had three career starts for a record of one win and two second placings. I was very confident of her chances leading into her first up run at Flemington and she didn’t disappoint me, finishing second to Smart Melody, who she meets again here. Music Bay has taken good improvement from her first up run and this will be her first attempt at the 1400 metres. She’s drawn an awkward barrier and we will need some luck from the draw. With her preparation aimed towards the Thousand Guineas, I expect she will run very well again today.

Race 9 is the Jukebox @AquisFarm Handicapover 1700 metres, my ride here is DANON ROMAN (JPN) who is trained by Anthony Freedman. This five year old entire by Deep Impact runs in the colours of Ozzie Kheir. His first run on Australian turf was very good where he finished third at Flemington over the same distance and I was impressed with his performance. He settled in the first half of the field and was solid to the line. The horse that beat him at Flemington, Furrion, also runs here however we meet him 2 kilos better at the weights. The stable is confident that he has taken good natural improvement from his first up run, and if that is the case, I expect him to be very competitive again.

Randwick Preview

Today I’m racing at Randwick on AFL Grand Final Day. The rail is out three metres and the track is rated a Good 4.

Race 1 is the Keeneland Gimcrack Stakes over 1000 metres, my ride here is PRESS WEEK who is trained by Brett Thompson. This race is one of the first for the two year olds for the new season and this is a Group 3 contest for the fillies. Press Week is by Hinchinbrook and is raced by the Muollo Family. She has had one official trial at Newcastle where she won the heat. She was slow into stride from the barriers before showing natural speed and leading the field. Although it wasn’t the fastest time of the morning she looked to have a lot in hand and more to give. I’m hoping she has come on from that experience, handles the raceday conditions well and can make the most of an inside barrier.

Race 4 is the Group 2 Yulong Australia Hill Stakes over 2000 metres, my ride here is MASTER OF ARTS (NZ) who is trained by John Thompson. This seven year old gelding by Mastercraftsman is raced by Waratah Thoroughbreds. He raced in Sydney throughout the Autumn and was successful in the Group 3 Manion Cup over 2400 metres. He commenced this preparation in Melbourne with two disappointing runs at Moonee Valley. He has since chanced stables and is stepping up in distance to a range where he can be effective. I’m looking forward to seeing how much improvement he has taken from his two runs this preparation. He has drawn an inside barrier and doesn’t generally race on speed, so will need some luck but should get an economical run in transit throughout the early stages before being asked for an effort.

Race 6 is the Group 1 Darley Flight Stakes over 1600 metres for three year old fillies, my ride here is FUTOOH who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This daughter of Sebring is raced by Shadwell Stud Australasia. She’s done all of her racing in Sydney and won at the course and distance at Listed grade at the end of her last preparation. She resumed this campaign with a third placing at Group 2 level over 1200 metres where she was closing off strongly. Her second up run over 1400 metres was better than the margin suggests as she wasn’t able to get much clear galloping room. She has drawn a wide barrier here and generally settles in the second half of the field, if the track is racing evenly and allowing horses to run on, she will be finishing off strongly.

Race 7 is the Group 1 TAB Epsom Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is NEW TIPPERARY who is trained by Joe Pride. This six year old gelding by High Chaparral won his most recent start at Newcastle at Group 3 level over 1500 metres and comes into this race full of confidence and in good form. He unfortunately has drawn an outside barrier however there looks to be a good amount of speed on paper and if the race is run at a solid tempo, he should be able to find a nice position with cover. If the race is run to suit him, on his best form he will make his presence felt with the light weight of 51 kilos.

Race 8 is the Group 1 The Heineken 3 Metropolitan over 2400 metres, my ride here is HIGH BRIDGE (GB) who is trained by Chris Waller. This eight year old gelding by Monsun is raced by OTI Racing and partners. He was imported to Australia with very good European credentials as a hurdler. The formula of importing jumpers for our flat racing has been successful in the past. He’s had two starts in Australia for two strong wins over 1900 and 2200 metres. He takes a big step up in grade here but he has a bit of the “X” Factor about him being undefeated in his two starts in Sydney. This race will provide a good test to see where he fits in and which path he takes in our top staying races throughout the Carnival. He has drawn an inside barrier and is still learning to relax in and jump effectively from the gates, as in Europe, being a jumper, they use a standing start method. Hopefully he has taken natural improvement and confidence in the gates from his recent experiences. If he can step well and use the inside barrier to his advantage, with the light weight, he looks like he should be able to measure up and I’m really looking forward to riding him.

Moonee Valley Preview

Tonight I’m racing at Moonee Valley where it’s the start of the Night Racing Season. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated a Good 4.

Race 1 is the WM Waste Management Plate over 1200 metres, my ride here is AL DORAMA who is trained by Darren Weir. This three year old colt by Al Maher is raced by the Saunders Family. He commenced his career off in good fashion when running second on debut at Sandown before going on to win at Flemington, as a two year old. His first up run this preparation was a solid effort where he finished fourth at Sandown. He was then disappointing second up in the Group 2 Danehill Stakes at Flemington over 1200 metres. He drops back in grade and on his best form can be competitive here.

Race 4 is the BM84 Ladbrokes 55 Second Challenge Heat 1 over 955 metres, my ride here is MILE HIGH who is trained by John Macmillan. I’ve ridden this five year old gelding by Kaphero previous and was successful on him at the course and distance last year. He has had a long break and with two runs this preparation under his belt should be ready to recapture his best form from last season. He is well treated under the conditions of this race and carries 3 kilos above the minimum.

Race 6 is the Group 3 Pro Star Entertainment Scarborough Stakes over 1200 metres for three year old fillies, my ride here is ENBIHAAR who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. She’s a daughter of Magnus who is raced by Shadwell Stud Australasia. She’s the highest rated horse in the field and is very well placed under the set weight conditions of the race. She is a talented filly who was highly competitive at Group 1 level as a two year old when she finished second in the Blue Diamond Stakes. She races second up here and if she can reproduce her two year old form, she will be the horse to beat.

Race 8 is the BM90 Mypunter.com Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is ISAURIAN who is trained by James Cummings. This four year old entire by Exceed and Excel is raced by Godolphin. I rode him first up this preparation at Sandown when he was successful over 1000 metres. He steps up in distance and grade here and drops half a kilo in weight. He comes into this four weeks between runs and I was pleased with his jumpout at Flemington last Friday. He is a lovely horse with a great attitude and looks well placed here to make it two from two this campaign.

Flemington Preview

Today I’m racing at Flemington. The rail is out 14 metres and the track is rated a Good 4.

Race 3 is the Rose Of May Handicap over 1420 metres, my ride here is AMPHITRITE who is trained by Darren Weir. She’s a lightly raced daughter of Sebring who has finished in the top four in her four career starts to date. I had my first ride on her at her most recent run where she resumed this preparation and was very impressive when winning her maiden at Sale. She steps up in distance here which I feel will suit her. With natural improvement and confidence from her first up win, she is the horse the others have to beat.

Race 4 is the BM64 Martini-Henry Handicap over 1420 metres, my ride here is FOUR SISTERS who is trained by Mick Kent. This six year old mare by Authorized is lightly raced having had 13 career starts with a record of two wins and five placings and is racing over her preferred distance range. She is very well placed in this BM64 as with the allowance for mares she will carry 60 kilos as a 68 rated horse. She has come up with an inside barrier and will get an economical run in transit in this competitive race. She has been racing in good form without winning recently and this looks a suitable race on paper for her.

Race 6 is the Kennedy Oaks Trial over 1800 metres, my ride here is SIZZLEME who is trained by Cindy Alderson. This daughter of Sizzling has been very consistent throughout her career with the only blemish on her record when she was not fully tested at Bendigo as a two year old. She comes into this race third up and will be at peak fitness. I’ve ridden her at both her runs this preparation and was successful on her at her most recent start. She carried 60 kilos last start and drops to 55.5kgs here. I feel the step up in distance will suit her and although she is only a small filly, she is very genuine and tries hard. This race will provide a good test to see which path she will take throughout the Spring.

Race 7 is the AAMI Victoria Derby Trial over 1800 metres, my ride here is LEATHERHEAD who is trained by James Cummings. This colt by Helmet is raced by Godolphin. He has had five career starts and has never finished further back than fifth placing. He has been racing in good form and his effort two starts ago at Sandown was full of merit. The step up in distance should suit him as he has been closing his races off strongly through the line. I feel the spacious track and inside barrier here are also in his favour. This race will also provide a good guide on where he fits in for the rest of the Spring carnival.

Race 8 is the Wallace Handicap over 1630 metres, my ride here is DATA POINT who is trained by Mick Kent. This six year old gelding by Lonhro has been a model of consistency who has been placed at half of his career starts. I had my first ride on him last time out at Geelong when finishing second to Furrion, who went on to win at Flemington. DATA POINT was meant to run two weeks ago but was a scratching on the day due to the track upgrade. Although he has drawn an outside barrier he is a horse that gets back in running. If the track is racing evenly, this race should be run to suit him with good speed on paper and it would be great to combine with him for his third win.

Caulfield Preview

Today I’m racing at Caulfield with the feature race of the day the Group 1 Ladbrokes Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes. Today’s raceday also raises awareness of the National Jockey’s Trust and helps raise funds for the cause. The rail is out nine metres and the track is rated in the Good range.

Race 1 is a three year old handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is A FIGHTING FURY who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This colt by Fastnet Rock won his first two runs this preparation on the synthetic track and at his most recent run, seven days ago, he contested a Listed race where he finished 3.4 lengths behind Brutal. He has drawn an outside barrier here and although I haven’t spoken to his connections yet, based on his recent racing pattern, I would assume he will be going back from the draw. This is a small field where there doesn’t look to be too much pressure on paper, so he will need the track to be racing evenly. This is a step back in grade and if he handles the seven day turn around, he will make his presence felt.

Race 3 is the Skyline Education Foundation Plate over 1000 metres, my ride here is ROCK HARD who is trained by Byron Cozamanis. This colt by All Too Hard started his career off in good style by winning his first three races as a two year old. Since returning as a three year old he has had two unplaced runs at Group level. He comes back in distance to the 1000 metres here, has drawn an inside barrier and has good natural speed so he should get an economical run in transit.

Race 4 is the BM90 Punters.com.au Living Legends Handicap over 1400 metres for mares, my ride here is ROYAL APPLAUSE who is trained by Symon Wilde. This six year old daughter of Congrats put in a plain run first up run at Caulfield earlier this month, but in saying that, she has never won first up. Her best form is second up and as she gets into her preparation. Her trainer is very good at placing his horses so it gives me great confidence to see her running here today. She has drawn a middle barrier and is starting to get out to racing over her preferred distance range. She is a mare who has competed very well at Group level and on her best form, can make her presence felt in this.

Race 5 is the Grassroots Sports Club for Mirabel Handicap over 1100 metres, my ride here is MARSUPIAL who is trained by James Cummings. This 4 year old gelding by Street Cry runs in the colours of Godolphin. He has been a very consistent horse throughout his career who has only missed a top three placing at five of his 14 starts. He ended his last preparation in Queensland where he placed second in a Listed race and finished fourth in a Group 3 contest. He has had two official trials in Sydney to have him ready for this and he is one of the main chances in this competitive field.

Race 6 is the Listed Aquis Jim Moloney Stakes over 1400 metres for three year old fillies, my ride here is ASSERTIVE PLAY who is trained by Phillip Stokes. This daughter of Akeed Mofeed is raced by Goldin Farms. She was undefeated as a two year old in her two career starts. She resumed this preparation at Moonee Valley where I rode her in a Listed race, she jumped awkwardly from the barriers and after settling last went to the line untested with no clear galloping room. I felt if she had clear room in the straight, she would have won very impressively. I rode her this week in trackwork and was pleased with the natural improvement she has taken. She has drawn a wide barrier here and is stepping up to the 1400 metres for the first time. I believe she is a filly of high quality who, with luck in running and provided the track is racing evenly allowing horses to make ground, will be winning this.

Race 7 is the Group 3 East Malvern Bendigo Bank MRC Foundation Cup over 2000 metres, my ride here is DIVINE UNICORN (GB) who is trained by Matthew Dunn. This five year old gelding by Lope de Vega is raced by Mr Wong. He is lightly raced and is building an impressive record having been placed at eight of his ten career starts. He finished fourth last time out at Moonee Valley where he was beaten by less than three lengths. He has drawn a very wide barrier however is a horse that is a real competitor and loves to win. He comes into this half a kilo above the minimum and with luck in running he is going to make his presence felt.

Race 8 is the Group 1 Ladbrokes Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes over 1400 metres, my ride here is OSBORNE BULLS who is trained by James Cummings. This five year old gelding by Street Cry runs in the colours of Godolphin. He is a true competitor and a horse that knows how to win, from his 11 career starts he has a record of eight wins and three placings. I won on him first up this preparation at the same course over 1200 metres and he was scratched from Moonee Valley two weeks ago as a precautionary measure by the stable. Since then he has had a jumpout at Flemington where I was pleased with the feel he gave me. He is a horse that has the feel of a genuine Group 1 horse and this is the first Group 1 race he will contest. With luck in running, he will be winning this.

Race 9 is a Group 3 race for mares over 1200 metres, my ride here is EPIDEMIC who is trained by James Cummings. This four year old daughter of Lonhro also runs the colours of Godolphin. She was undefeated last preparation where she had three starts for three wins and ended the preparation winning in Listed grade. She commences her preparation here and this will be her first test at Group 3 level. She is well treated under the set weights and penalty conditions and will carry 56 kilos. This is her first time the Melbourne way of going under race pressure so I will be mindful of that. She has drawn an outside barrier and if the track is racing evenly and the race is run to suit her, with luck, I expect her to be running over the top of them. 

Sale Preview

Today I’m racing at Sale. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated in the Good range.

Race 1 is the Ladbrokes Sale Cup Oct 28th 3YO Fillies Maiden Plate over 1100 metres, my ride here is PART TIME LOVER who is trained by Mathew Ellerton & Simon Zahra. This daughter of Zoustar was beaten by just over three lengths at her debut run at Echuca where she jumped from a wide barrier and closed the race off relatively well. She competes against GREAT DUCHESS who beat her home by two lengths at Echuca again here today. Provided my filly has taken natural improvement and is able to take advantage of her inside barrier to gain a good position throughout the early stages, she can run a competitive race.

Race 2 is the Christmas @ Sale Dec 23rd Maiden Plate over 1200 metres, my ride here is SLY SONG who is trained by Wendy Kelly. I’ve ridden this daughter of Your Song in two of her three career starts and know her fairly well. She is a mare that has started short in the market each time she has gone to the races and although she is still a maiden, she hasn’t missed the top three placings in her career to date. She steps up to the 1200 metres for the first time here today and I will be interested to see what my instructions will be pre-race as she has drawn a wide barrier. This looks to be a competitive field but I am hopeful with the benefit of a first up run and race experience on her side, she can break her maiden here.

Race 5 is the Newry Fencing Contractors BM64 Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is EVIL CRY who is trained by Robbie Laing. This four year old entire by Street Cry has had 16 starts, finishing in the top three on six occasions including two wins. I’ve ridden him previously in an official trial and at Flemington where he raced over 1400 metres when stepping up in grade earlier this year. I felt he failed to run out the 1400 strongly in that grade. He races second up here and if he can find his best form, he is the horse to beat. 

Geelong Preview

Today I’m racing at Geelong. The track is rated a Good 4 and the rail is out 6 metres. There is rain forecast throughout the afternoon.

Race 2 is the Westfield Geelong SV 3YO Fillies Maiden Plate over 1325 metres, my ride here is COLLECTABLE who is trained by Robbie Griffiths. This filly by Sebring is raced by Australian Thoroughbred Bloodstock and partners. She has had one start at the course and distance where I rode her on debut earlier this month to finish in second placing. She jumped slowly from the barriers on that day and I felt she would derive a lot from the experience. Although she has drawn a wide barrier here, if she has taken good natural improvement from her first up run she will take a lot of beating.

Race 5 is the Viatek F&M BM64 Handicap over 1525 metres, my ride here is JUST LIKE MUM who is trained by Matthew Brown. This four year old mare by Reset is lightly raced having had two career starts. She won on debut over 1400 before stepping up in distance to 1600 metres in a strong fillies and mares BM70 where she was beaten by just over three lengths. She drops down in grade here and will start from a favourable barrier. She seems to make her own luck, races close to the speed and should take a lot of running down in this small but competitive field.

Race 8 is the Roderick Insurance Brokers BM78 Handicap over 1425 metres, my ride here is DATA POINT who is trained by Mick Kent. This six year old gelding by Lonhro is at peak fitness and races fourth up here. He stays at the same course and distance as his last start where I finished second on him. He was beaten by Furrion on that day, who looks to have above average ability and won the last race at Flemington yesterday. DATA POINT tends to get back in his races so will need some luck and if this race is run at a genuine tempo, I expect him to be one of the main chances.

Race 10 is the Elephant & Castle Hotel BM70 Handicap over 1125 metres, my ride here is PLUTOCRACY who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This four year old gelding by Sebring races third up here this preparation. He raced at same course and distance last time out where he finished third and was beaten by less than a length. I have ridden him previously in a Group race where he was beaten by an official margin of 2.4 lengths. His overall form is very good and he looks like he is building towards his second win. He has come up with an inside barrier, is a horse that races close to the speed and this looks a winnable race for him.

Flemington Preview

It’s Makybe Diva Stakes Day at Flemington today. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated a Good 3 with rain predicted throughout the afternoon.

Race 1 is the JDRF Pin & Win Plate over 2500 metres, my ride here is MASTER ZEPHYR (GB) who is trained by Darren Weir. This seven year old gelding by Shirocco is raced by OTI Racing and partners. I rode him last time out at Caulfield where he finished fourth in a similar type of field. He was slow into stride on that occasion and closed the race off nicely. He goes up half a kilo here and meets the subsequent winner much better at the weights. He’s drawn a good barrier and there looks to be nice pressure on paper that should ensure a solid tempo. I expect MASTER ZEPHYR will take a lot of beating.

Race 2 is the Listed Cap D'Antibes Stakes over 1100 metres for three year old fillies, my ride here is MUSIC BAY who is trained by Phillip Stokes. This filly by Choisir is lightly raced having had two runs last preparation in Adelaide. She won on debut before being beaten in Listed grade where she finished second behind Fundamentalist who went on to be placed at Group 1 level. She resumes this preparation here and her recent official trial was pleasing. I’ve ridden her in some recent track work where she gave me the feel of a filly who will be prominent in the top level three year old races throughout the Spring. She is having her first start racing over the straight course and has drawn an outside barrier, with the race favourite drawn near me. I’m looking forward to riding her under race day conditions and from what I know of her so far, I expect her to be one of the main chances.

Race 3 is The Sofitel over 1400 metres, my ride here is ECLAIR CALLING (NZ) who is trained by Phillip Stokes. This five year old gelding by Tartan Bearer is raced by Thomas Li. He has had one start at the track for a win and has had two starts at the distance for two placings. He runs second up here and has a second up record of two starts for a win and a placing. He has drawn an inside barrier and should get an economical run in transit on a surface that will be to his liking. This is a strong field and will provide a good guide on where he heads to further in the Spring.

Race 5 is the Group 2 Bobbie Lewis Quality over 1200 metres, my ride here is KEMONO (JPN) who is trained by Darren Weir. This Japanese four year old entire is by Kinshasa No Kiseki and is raced by Ozzie Kheir and partners. He raced at the highest level during his two and three year old career and is lightly raced. His first up run in Australia was very good at Caulfield where he was beaten by less than two lengths. He drops to the minimum weight here and this will be his first attempt over the Flemington straight. The stable has been pleased with the progress he has made and a forward showing would not surprise.

Race 6 is the Group 2 Let's Elope Stakes over 1400 metres for mares, my ride here is MISS GUNPOWDER who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. I’ve ridden her to success previously having won multiple races on her including the Group 2 Thousand Guineas Prelude as a three year old. I’ve been lucky on her and we will need some luck here today as we’ve drawn an outside barrier. She meets these horses very well under the conditions of this race as she carriers the minimum. She is very effective racing at this course and distance and I’m hoping to continue my good record on her, all we will need is some luck from the draw.

Race 7 is the W.F.A Group 1 PFD Food Services Makybe Diva Stakes over 1600 metres, my ride here is KEMENTARI who is trained by James Cummings. This four year old entire by Lonhro is raced by Godolphin. I’m looking forward to having my first ride on him as his form is very impressive and I feel the spacious circuit of Flemington will suit him, as will the step up in distance. We have drawn a tricky barrier however, he seems to have a versatile racing pattern. It will be interesting to see how the track is racing throughout the day and what my instructions are pre-race. This is a strong field at Group 1 level and I feel with luck from the draw, my horse is the one to beat.

Race 8 is the Group 2 Danehill Stakes over 1200 metres, my ride here is ENCRYPTION who is trained by James Cummings. This three year old colt by Lonhro also runs in the colours of Godolphin. I rode him last time out at Caulfield where he was second up and raced off speed. He was held up for clear galloping room well into the straight and when he got room, his effort to the line was very good. He comes into this with the addition of blinkers to his head gear for the first time and has drawn an inside barrier. I expect him to be one of the main chances.

Race 9 is the Sofitel Girls' Day Out Handicap over 1700 metres, my ride here is DANON ROMAN (JPN) who is trained by Anthony Freedman. This five year old Japanese entire is by Deep Impact and raced by Ozzie Kheir and partners. This will be his first start on Australian turf and he has had an official trial at Cranbourne and a jumpout at Flemington in preparation for this. He has drawn a wide barrier here and I’m looking forward to seeing him under race conditions and pressure as his performance will provide a guide on which direction he takes throughout the Spring.

Bendigo Preview

Today I’m racing at Bendigo. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated in the Good range.

Race 2 is the Bet365 Three-Years-Old Maiden Plate over 1600 metres, my ride here is VOW AND DECLARE who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This gelding by Declaration Of War is having his second career start. He is a half brother to Lycurgus who is building an impressive record racing over staying distances in city grade. I rode VOW AND DECLARE when he made his debut at Cranbourne over 1500 metres. Even though he was beaten by over seven lengths on that day, he gave me the feel of a nice horse that will really progress as he steps up in distance. I’m looking forward to seeing the natural improvement he has taken from his first up run.

Race 3 is the Bendigo Mazda Three-Years-Old Fillies BM70 Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is SIZZLEME who is trained by Cindy Alderson. Although this daughter of Sizzling contests a BM70 race here carrying the top weight, she is still a maiden. I had my first ride on her last time out at Cranbourne where she raced first up on soft ground and was beaten by an official margin of 2.55 lengths. She’s only a small type and wasn’t able to gain clear galloping room to use her acceleration. I feel the step up in distance and the spacious Bendigo circuit will suit her. It’s a small but competitive field and tactics will come into play. She has drawn to get an economical run in transit and provided she gets clear room in the straight, she looks the horse to beat.

Race 4 is the Mawsons BM64 Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is PERSIAN EMPIRE (NZ) who is trained by Trent Busuttin & Natalie Young. This four year old gelding by Savabeel is raced by Ultra Racing and partners. I rode him last campaign and was placed at city grade on him. He ended that preparation with a trip to New Zealand where he contested the Group 2 Avondale Guineas. His first up run at Cranbourne was disappointing on face value and I note he will wear a tongue tie and cross-over noseband here for the first time. If he can recapture his best form, he has the ability to win this.