Sandown Preview

Today I’m riding at Sandown for their feature meeting of the year. There are 10 races on the card and all are black type races. The rail is in the true position on the Hillside circuit and the track is rated in the good range. Sandown is an amazing track for the industry as it hosts a lot of winter racing on its two tracks, Hillside and Lakeside.

Race 1 is the Listed Thoroughbred Club Merson Cooper Stakes over 1000 metres for two-year-old’s, my ride here is GEIST who is trained by James Cummings. This daughter of Medaglia d’Oro is raced by Godolphin. She’s had one jumpout in Sydney where she was slow out of the barriers, she settled out wide and travelled nicely to the line under light riding. She starts here from an outside barrier in a big field and if she has taken improvement and experience from that jumpout and runs up to her best, she can make her presence felt.

Race 2 is the Listed Ladbrokes Sandown Cup over 3200 metres, my ride here is WALL OF FIRE (IRE) who is trained by Ciaron Maher & David Eustace. This seven-year-old gelding by Canford Cliffs started his career racing in Europe before being imported to Australia where he runs in the colours of Ozzie Kheir. He races here fourth up this preparation and has been building in distance at each of his runs this campaign. I’ve ridden him previously in the 2017 Melbourne Cup where he had good form and there were high expectations of him leading into the race, however he pulled up lame post-race. His first two runs this campaign have been solid without winning and at his most recent start the winner was very impressive and he ran fairly. He is stepping up in distance from 2500 metres last start and the blinkers have been removed from his head gear. He carries half a kilo above the minimum weight and if he can reproduce his best form against this small but competitive field, he should be in this for a long way.

Race 3 is the Listed MRC 6 Month Membership Twilight Glow Stakes over 1400 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is PALURIEN who is trained by James Cummings. This daughter of Reset runs in the colours of Godolphin. She’s had six lifetime starts for a record of two wins and two placings. Five of her six starts have been this preparation and she comes into this a last start winner in BM70 grade. She is stepping up in grade today and will start from an inside barrier draw and carries the minimum weight. It will be interesting to see what my instructions are pre-race as in her recent starts she has been ridden off the speed from wide barrier draws, but there doesn’t look to be much pressure in this race and she has drawn a low barrier. She is racing in consistent form and it would be nice for her to gain black-type status as a lightly raced three-year-old filly.

Race 4 is the Group 3 Ladbrokes Sandown Stakes over 1500 metres, my ride here is MUSIC BAY who is trained by Phillip Stokes. This four-year-old mare by Choisir has had 14 starts for a record of three wins and six placings. I rode her when she was a three-year-old when she first came to Victoria from South Australia. She put in an excellent first up performance at Flemington to finish second in Listed grade, before tapering off in her subsequent runs in Group 1 and 2 company before being sent for a spell. She raced much more consistently in her next preparation and I was re-united with her at the end of that campaign where we won the Group 2 Queen Of The South in Adelaide. She’s had three runs this preparation and all have been good efforts from her. She is taking on the boys today and carries the minimum weight of 54 kilos. She is a horse that like to settle close to the speed and has drawn a favourable barrier draw. On her best form she will take a lot of beating in this.

Race 5 is the Listed Clanbrooke Racing Doveton Stakes over 1000 metres, my ride here is VIRIDINE who is trained by James Cummings. This five-year-old gelding by Poet’s Voice also runs in the blue colours of Godolphin. He has had three runs this preparation, his first two runs were very good in stronger grade and he finished not far behind Nature Strip in Group 1 company and then Group 2 company under WFA conditions behind Trekking. He is dropping back in distance from his most recent start at Flemington where he pulled up with EIPH, so had excuses for that run where he finished last. The last time I rode him he was a colt and we finished second in the Group 2 McEwen Stakes at Moonee Valley behind Nature Strip. He is horse that will appreciate the drop back in distance and quick tempo as he can over-race and do things wrong. If we have luck late in the race and he brings his best form he will be the horse to beat.

Race 6 is the Group 3 Kevin Heffernan Stakes over 1300 metres, my ride here is ORDER OF COMMAND who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This five-year-old gelding by Squamosa is an honest and consistent galloper with a race record of six wins and six placings from his 18 starts. I’ve ridden him once previously with success, winning on him at Caulfield last preparation. This will be his first start at Sandown and third run over the distance, he is yet to win at this distance from his three attempts but has placed twice. He races here fourth up this campaign and comes into this off a Group 2 second placing at Flemington over 1200 metres during Cup week. He has drawn to gain an economical run in transit from the low barrier draw and he is such an honest horse, I am sure he will run very well again and can definitely make his presence felt. Under the Weight For Age conditions of this race some of his rivals are better treated at the weights than him due to their high rating.

Race 7 is the Group 2 Ladbrokes Sandown Guineas over 1600 metres for three-year-olds, my ride here is BANQUO who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This colt by Written Tycoon is raced in partnership with Waikato Stud and several high-profile owners. He’s had five lifetime starts for two wins and a second placing, with his two unplaced runs being in his first campaign as a two-year-old. He has won his last two starts and most recently won at Flemington over 1400 metres at Listed grade where he was dominant in his effort. He has drawn a wide barrier and I expect the step up in distance will be to his benefit. He comes into this race full of confidence from his recent racing and is colt that looks to be very progressive. If he doesn’t have to work too hard from the barrier in the early stages and runs out the mile strongly, then he will take a lot of beating against this small but extremely competitive Group 2 field.

Race 8 is the Group 2 Quayclean Zipping Classic over 2400 metres, my ride here is GALLIC CHIEFTAIN (FR) who is trained by Archie Alexander. This race is named after the very good galloper Zipping who competed in our feature races for many seasons and won this race four times. GALLIC CHIEFTAIN is a seven-year-old entire by Tamayuz who was imported from France and races in the colours of OTI Racing. He has been racing consistently this preparation without winning and is dropping back in distance from 2600 metres last start. He’s had nine runs at this distance for a record of two wins and four placings and this is a distance he enjoys racing over. He has drawn a favourable barrier draw and with luck in running and on his best form he will be hard to beat.

Race 9 is the Group 3 Le Pine Funerals Summoned Stakes over 1500 metres, my ride here is ONE MORE TRY who is trained by Matt Cumani. I’ve ridden this five-year-old mare by Dane Shadow a couple of times towards the end of her last preparation. This campaign her first two runs were excellent and her most recent run at Flemington was a solid enough effort. She races here with the blinkers going back on, will start from a low barrier draw and carries the minimum weight for this race. If she brings her best form she will be one of the main chances.

Race 10 is the Group 3 The Big Screen Company Eclipse Stakes over 1800 metres, my ride here is PLEIN CIEL (GER) who is trained by Anthony Freedman. This seven-year-old gelding by Mamool is raced by Australian Bloodstock and partners. I’ve ridden him once under race conditions, winning the Group 3 Easter Cup at Caulfield over 2000 metres. I rode him in an official trial before he resumed this preparation and he trialled nicely to finish third behind Harbour Views and Mr Quickie. His three runs this preparation have been solid without winning. Unfortunately, he has drawn an outside barrier so it will be interesting to see what my instructions are pre-race as he can be ridden effectively on and off the speed. On his best form and with luck from the barrier, he will be winning this. 

Singapore Gold Cup Preview

Today I’m riding in Singapore for the Gold Cup meeting.

Race 9 is the Group 1 DESTER SINGAPORE GOLD CUP over 2000 metres, my ride here is MR CLINT who is trained by Lee Freedman. This five-year-old gelding by Power is raced by the Oscar Racing Stable. He won the Group 1 Singapore Guineas as a three-year-old and as a four-year old finished a narrow second in the Singapore Derby over 1800 metres in July of this year. He is a consistent galloper with a record of four wins and eight placings from his 22 starts. He has been racing well in the lead up events to this feature and finished second by an official margin of 0.1 lengths in the Raffles Cup over 1600 metres with his only disappointing run being last start where it was reported that he pulled up with excuses post-race. There are storms and rain forecast throughout the day and on his form, the more rain that comes the more it will enhance his chances. He has drawn a low barrier and is a horse that usually gets back in his races. When he competed in this race last year he started from a wide barrier draw and raced close to the speed and wasn’t beaten far. With an economical run in transit and returning to handicap conditions where he carries 53 kilos, on his best form he is the horse they all have to beat.

Flemington Preview

Today I’m riding at Flemington where it’s Stakes Day and the last day of the VRC Spring Carnival. The rail is out 9 metres and the track is rated in the good range, but there is poor weather predicated throughout the day.

Race 1 is the BM90 Cup Week Radio Trophy over 1600 metres, my ride here is HUNAMOSA (NZ) who is trained by Luke Oliver. This seven-year-old gelding by Alamosa has had 44 starts for a record of nine wins and four placings and is a consistent galloper. He has been racing in good form recently and although not winning, hasn’t been beaten far. He is horse that races close to the speed and makes his own luck. This will be my first ride on him and after watching his replays he looks like he can get his head up at times, so it will be important for me to get him into a smooth rhythm and relax. If he can take up a forward position from his barrier without doing too much work in this small field and races well for me, I’m sure he will be in this for a long way.

Race 2 is the BM90 Very Special Kids Pin and Win Plate over 2000 metres, my ride here is SNITZEPEG who is trained by my father Allan & brother Jason Williams. SNITZEPEG races in colours that were designed by my wife Larysa, so there is a strong family connection and a lot of pressure on me! He is a five-year-old gelding by Snitzel who has a race record of five wins and six placings from his 30 race starts. If he finds his form from Caulfield in July where he ran a solid third under open handicap conditions, he will be very competitive in this. He is a versatile horse that races well on all surfaces so if the rain arrives it won’t be a disadvantage to him.

Race 3 is the Listed World Horse Racing Springtime Stakes over 1400 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is KNICKPOINT who is trained by James Cummings. This colt by Carlton House is raced by Godolphin. He’s had two career starts for two wins, both being in NSW. He won at his debut run on a heavy 9 track at Hawkesbury before being having a break from training. He resumed this preparation racing on a good 4 surface and was dominant in his effort over 1200 metres in BM64 grade. This will be his first race in Victoria and he will start from a wide barrier draw. He looks to be an exciting horse with good promise and if he puts it all together today taking the step up in grade, he will be very hard to beat.

Race 4 is the Group 3 Queen Elizabeth Stakes over 2600 metres, my ride here is MAURUS (GB) who is trained by John Thompson. This nine-year-old gelding by Medicean is raced by Paul Fudge of Waratah Thoroughbreds. The last time I rode him was at the end of his last preparation where we finished second in the Group 3 Premier Cup in Queensland. He races here fifth up this campaign and his last two runs have seen him finish third and second in Group 3 and Listed grade over 2400 metres, respectively. He is stepping up to the 2600 metres for the first time today and carries 54 kilos. It would be very meaningful for me to win on him at Flemington for his owner Paul Fudge.

Race 5 is the Group 1 Darley Sprint Classic over 1200 metres, my ride here is LOVING GABY who is trained by Ciaron Maher & David Eustace.

Race 6 is the Group 2 TAB Matriarch Stakes over 2000 metres for mares, my ride here is MISS SISKA who is trained by Grahame Begg. This six-year-old daughter of So You Think runs in the Davenport family colours. She ran second in this race last year finishing less than half a length behind Kenedna. Her last start saw her compete in Group 1 grade over 1600 metres so she is dropping back in grade, going up in distance and meets some of her rivals better at the weights under the conditions of this race. She has drawn a wide barrier and with some luck in running she can go close to winning again in this year’s edition.

Race 7 is the Group 3 Network 10 Chatham Stakes over 1400 metres, my ride here is ADMIRAL’S JOKER who is trained by Kylie Vella. This seven-year-old gelding by Bel Esprit is raced by the Butler family. He is very lightly raced for his age and has been well managed by Kylie and her team, as from his 13 race starts has a record of six wins and four placings to his name. I’ve really enjoyed being associated with him and he is such special horse to Kylie and Steven and is a part of their family. He has been dominant this preparation and has won his past four starts and the last time he was beaten he finished second to Mr Quickie, who then went on to win the Group 1 Queensland Derby. Admiral's Joker won the Listed Seymour Cup last start in what was a very impressive effort over 1600 metres, he settled back in the field in a slowly run race and sprinted quickly when asked for an effort. The stable have reported that he has improved again from that run and I’m excited to be riding him again in this race. We were hoping that he would have made the field for the Group1 Mackinnon Stakes today, but unfortunately, he didn’t make the field. I thought he would have made his presence felt in the Group 1 race and on that, he should be winning this.

Race 8 is the Group 1 Seppelt Mackinnon Stakes over 2000 metres, my ride here is ARISTIA who is trained by Mathew Ellerton & Simon Zahra.

Race 9 is the BM80 Seppelt Drumborg Grand Handicap over 1100 metres, my ride here is MORRISSY who is trained by Leon & Troy Corstens. I’ve ridden this four-year-old entire by Snitzel previously, winning on him during the Winter at Sandown over 1200 metres and again when he resumed this campaign at Moonee Valley last start over 955 metres, finishing second and was unlucky not to win. He is stepping up slightly in distance here and has raced over the straight course previously. He is a much more mature horse this preparation and I’m excited for him to be my last ride for this year’s Flemington Carnival and if we have luck in running, he will be winning this.

Flemington Preview

Today I’m riding at Flemington where it’s Oak’s Day, Ladies Day. The rail is out 6 metres, out 3 metres further from Tuesday’s meeting, and the track is rated in the good range but there is rain and poor weather forecast for later in the afternoon. I’m still very much on a high after winning Tuesday’s Melbourne Cup on Vow And Declare. It is an amazing feeling to have won our greatest race and is truly life changing. Thank you to everyone for the kind messages and support.

Race 2 is the Group 3 Darley Maribyrnong Plate over 1000 metres for two-year-old, my ride here is JERLE who is trained by James Cummings. This colt by Exceed And Excel is raced by Godolphin. He is the omen horse in the field as he is raced by Godolphin, with the sponsors of this race being their breeding operation, Darley. He’s had one start at the course and distance where he finished second, beaten by an official margin of 1.5 lengths. It is a huge advantage for two-year-old’s to have had previous experience racing over the straight course and he comes into this fitter for his debut run. He also has the blinkers applied to his head gear for the first time. If the blinkers have the desired outcome and he has taken natural improvement from his first up run, he will take a lot of beating.

Race 3 is the BM90 Off The Track Subzero Handicap over 1400 metres for grey horses only, my ride here is BUMPER BLAST who is trained by Robert Hickmott. This four-year-old gelding by Ocean Park is raced by Jenny Chapman and David Price of Price Bloodstock Management. It is a great spectacle to see a race with only grey horses taking part. Bumper Blast has had two career starts and I rode him last time out at Sale over 1400 metres where he dominated and won his maiden by 6.75 lengths. He was ridden on-speed that day and his times showed some of the quickest splits throughout the meeting. He is stepping up significantly in grade, but it is a restricted race. He drops to the minimum weight of 54 kilos and comes into this race with confidence from his last start win. He has drawn an outside barrier and if we have luck in running, he can definitely take the step up to this grade and win.

Race 4 is the BM70 Bumble Trophy Race over 1700 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is METRONOME who is trained by Michael Kent. This four-year-old mare by Helmet has had 14 starts for a record of two wins and six placings. She won last start in BM64 F&M grade at Ballarat over 1400 metres, so comes into this race full of confidence. She is stepping up in distance which looks like it will suit her and will start from a middle barrier draw. She drops 1 kilo in weight from her last start as she is up in grade. This is a competitive field and she should be able to make her presence felt as she is racing in consistent form.

Race 5 is the Listed G.H. Mumm Century Stakes over 1000 metres, my ride here is SOOTHING who is trained by James Cummings. This five-year-old mare by Lonhro is raced by Godolphin. She’s had 17 starts for a record of six wins and three placings. Two starts ago she won in Listed grade in Adelaide over 1100 metres and last start she ran well to finish 2.3 lengths from the winner, in a strong race at Caulfield. She’s had two runs at this distance for a win and I’ll be mindful that she hasn’t raced over the straight course before, so I’ll help her as much as I can. There is a lot of speed in this race and she is a horse that will be looking to finish off over the top of them.

Race 6 is the BM80 Melbourne Cup Carnival Country Final over 1600 metres, my ride here is STAR MISSILE who is trained by Greg Eurell. This race has been a great initiative by Racing Victoria and the VRC to run heats for this race all around the state for horses trained outside of the metropolitan area, with the first two horses over the line gaining a start in today’s final, which is worth $500,000. I won this race last year on Cochada and he came through the same form references. Star Missile is a four-year-old gelding that is raced by Hancox Racing. He resumed this preparation with a dominant and impressive win when I rode him at Sale where he carried 60.5 kilos. He sat wide throughout and settled just off the speed and gave me a great feel when he was asked to extend. He has drawn a very wide barrier today and drops 2.5 kilos in weight. We will need luck from the draw, but if we have luck and he can reproduce his first up effort, he will be the horse they all have to beat.

Race 7 is the Listed TCL TV Stakes over 1800 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is HIGHLAND JAKK (NZ) who is trained by Robert Hickmott. This gelding by Jakkalberry has had three starts and hasn’t missed a top three placing in his career to date. He was successful last start over 2015 metres winning his maiden at Seymour and is dropping back in distance today, with the blinkers going on for the first time. He comes into this with good confidence levels and will have taken experience from his recent racing. He is horse that looks like he gets back in the field and if he races kindly for me and has luck from the barrier and the blinkers sharpen him up for the drop back in distance, he can win this. This is also the race that Tuesday’s Melbourne Cup winner Vow And Declare won as a three-year-old. 

Melbourne Cup Day Preview

Today I’m riding at Flemington where it’s the race that stops the nation, the Melbourne Cup! This race is a target around the globe for horses as we can see by the internationals in today’s field. The rail is out 3 metres after Derby Day and the track is rated in the soft range. I’m looking forward to walking the track to see how it may race throughout the day as there will be some wear to the surface after Saturday’s card.

Race 1 is the Group 3 Darley Ottawa Stakes over 1000 metres for two-year-old fillies, my ride here is WILD CHERRY ROAD who is trained by Dean Krongold. This daughter of Holy Roman Emperor is having her first lifetime start today. She comes into this as a well-educated filly and I’ve ridden her in an official trial at Cranbourne. She did a lot of things right when I rode her at Cranbourne and showed good natural speed and gave me the feel that she has nice ability. If she brings her trial form to the races and she doesn’t get over-awed by the big crowds, she will be very competitive.

Race 2 is the BM90 Grinders Coffee Roasters Trophy over 1400 metres, my ride here is PHAISTOS who is trained by James Cummings. This four-year-old gelding by Helmet is raced by Godolphin. He is a lightly raced horse having had only nine career starts and he is a horse that knows how to win, having won four races and placed a further three times. He races first up here and is two from two when racing fresh, but they have been over less distance than today’s race. He has raced over the 1400 metres once previously and finished second. He has drawn a wide barrier and if the track is racing evenly and we have luck from the draw, he looks like the horse they all have to beat.

Race 3 is the TAB Trophy over 1700 metres for mares, my ride here is EXTREME PRIDE who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This four-year-old mare by I Am Invincible has had nine starts and has won on four occasions, winning her last four races. She comes into this in great form and with high confidence levels. I’ve ridden her in her last two starts and at her most recent run she contested BM80 grade carrying 54.5 kilos, she steps up again in grade today and drops half a kilo in weight. She is racing over the same distance as last start at Caulfield and has drawn an economical barrier. She is a tough mare that makes her own luck by racing on-speed and looks like she will take a lot of running down on her home track.

Race 4 is the BM96 The Macca's Run over 2800 metres, my ride here is CREEDENCE who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Darbernig team. Creedence is a five-year-old gelding by Helmet who has had 23 starts for a record of three wins and eight placings. I rode him two starts ago over 2400 metres at Caulfield where he was beaten by Shared Ambition, who he meets again today, with Shared Ambition meeting us better at the weights for beating us on that occasion. Creedence ran most recently in the Group 3 Bendigo Cup last Wednesday where he finished five lengths from the winner. He has drawn to gain an economical run in transit and I expect he can make his presence felt and he is a horse that is versatile on all racing surfaces.

Race 5 is the Schweppervescence Plate over 1000 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is SANTORINI SUMMER who is trained by Mark Kavanagh. This gelding by Eurozone has had two starts in Adelaide for a record of one win and a second placing. He ran second on debut on heavy ground where he was narrowly beaten and at his second start, he won beating Garner, who he meets again here today. Garner has since franked the form from that race as he resumed his next campaign in Adelaide with a win before travelling to Melbourne and winning again at Caulfield. I’ve ridden Santorini Summer in two jumpouts at Flemington in preparation for his return to racing and I’ve been happy with him in both. He will start from a middle barrier draw and will take a lot of beating in this big field of competitive gallopers.

Race 6 is the Group 3 Jim Beam Stakes over 1400 metres for mares, my ride here is DUNBRODY POWER who is trained by John Thompson. This four-year-old daughter of All Too Hard has been very competitive in her career and is lightly raced. From her 12 starts she has a record of three wins and seven placings and on the two occasion she has missed a top three placing, she finished fourth and fifth, so she is a real competitor. She comes into this a mare with good confidence levels after her last start win at Warwick Farm and is stepping up in distance for her first Victorian run. She has drawn a low barrier and carries the minimum weight of 55 kilos in this Group 3 contest. With her consistent form and competitive nature, she will be one of the main chances.

Race 7 is the feature race of the day, the Group 1 Lexus Melbourne Cup over 3200 metres.

Race 8 is the Listed Furphy Plate over 1800 metres, my ride here is LOOKS LIKE ELVIS who is trained by Bryan Dais. This five-year-old gelding by All American has had 32 starts for a record of eight wins and 11 placings. He is visitor from Queensland who has had his last 3 runs in Melbourne. He competed in the Group 1 Turnbull Stakes where he was beaten by 3.55 lengths, finishing sixth. He then contested the Cranbourne Cup to finish 5.55 lengths from the winner over 2000 metres and last start dropped back to 1500 metres in the VOBIS Gold Star race at Moonee Valley where he finished third, in a strong field. He drops to one kilo above the minimum weight today and has drawn an inside barrier which is to his advantage, as he usually races close to the speed and will take a lot of beating in this.

Race 9 is the Listed MSS Security Sprint over 1200 metres, my ride here is SMART COUPE who is trained by Mathew Ellerton & Simon Zahra. This five-year-old mare by Smart Missile is raced by First Light Racing and partners. She races here second-up this preparation and has winning form at the track. Her form at the track and distance is a second placing from two attempts and she has won three times over the 1200 metres. She resumed this campaign with a dominant win in Listed grade on Geelong Cup day, so she comes into this race with confidence from that win and is dropping to the minimum weight of 54 kilos as she is a mare taking on the open aged sprinters under handicap conditions. This is a strong field but I’m sure she can make her presence felt and run a competitive race.

Race 10 is the Listed The Hong Kong Jockey Club Stakes over 1400 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is EXCUSED who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Darbernig team. This daughter of Medaglia d’Oro is raced by Darren Thomas of Seymour Bloodstock and Colin and Janice McKenna. She is lightly raced and from her five starts has a win and two placings to her name, including running second two starts ago in Listed grade at Caulfield. Her last start was at Flemington in Group 2 company where she went forward and raced too keenly over 1600 metres and did a good job to be beaten by only 4.5 lengths. She comes into this off a freshen up and is dropping back in distance. If she has freshened up well and brings her best form, she will take a lot of beating in this and I’m looking forward to seeing how she presents pre-race.

Derby Day Preview

Today I’m riding at Flemington where it’s the feature race day of the Australian racing calendar, Derby Day. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated in the good range. In typical Melbourne style, there is rain forecast throughout the day so I will have to keep that in mind as it may alter the racing conditions.

Race 1 is the Group 2 TAB Stakes over 1200 metres, my ride here is ZOUTORI who is trained by Mathew Ellerton & Simon Zahra. This four-year-old gelding by Zoustar is raced by Pinecliff Racing and partners. He is a very consistent galloper that knows how to win, from his 15 starts he has recorded five wins and four placings. From his five attempts at the distance he has won three times and placed a further two times and from his five attempts over the straight course, has only missed a top three placing once. I rode him as a three-year-old at the course over 1400 and 1600 metres where he was dominant in winning on both occasions. He then went to Queensland for two runs including the Group 2 Guineas, where I rode him at Eagle Farm. He didn’t handle the track that well and finished less than four lengths behind Kolding, who subsequently won this year’s Group 1 Epsom Handicap. Zoutori comes into this race in very good form with two runs at the course and distance under his belt for a win and third placing, both in Group 2 company. His last start effort saw him finish less than a length behind Sunlight and Santa Ana Lane who are both multiple Group 1 winners. He comes into this with a gap between runs and I rode him in a recent jumpout in preparation for this assignment and was impressed with his physical improvement and mental maturity. On his recent form he will be winning this.

Race 2 is the Group 2 G.H. Mumm Wakeful Stakes over 2000 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is TISANE who is trained by James Cummings. This daughter of Hallowed Crown is raced by Godolphin. She’s had six lifetime starts for a record of one win and four second placings. Interestingly, her last start win came in Class 1 company and not maiden grade. She comes into this with confidence from her last start win and is stepping up slightly in distance, which should be in her favour. Under the conditions of this race she will carry the minimum weight of 55 kilos and has drawn to gain an economical run in transit from a low barrier draw and with these things in her favour, she should be very competitive.

Race 3 is the Group 3 Network 10 Carbine Club Stakes over 1600 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is HILO who is trained by James Cummings. This colt by Lonhro also runs in the colours of Godolphin. He’s had five starts for two wins and a second placing. I rode him in his debut run at Caulfield on soft ground over 1200 metres where he finished fourth and three lengths behind Missile Mantra as a two-year-old. He was then spelled and returned as a three-year-old to win his first two starts before stepping up to Group 3 company in the Guineas Prelude, where he finished six lengths behind Alligator Blood, who was narrowly beaten in the Group 1 Caulfield Guineas. At his most recent start he finished second in the Gothic Stakes over 1400 metres at Caulfield which is usually a good lead in race and form reference for this. He has drawn an outside barrier and is a horse that usually races close to the speed, so if he doesn’t have to do too much work from the gates, he will be in this for a long way.

Race 4 is the Group 3 Lexus Hotham Stakes over 2500 metres, my ride here is VALAC (IRE) who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. The winner of this race is exempt from the ballot for Tuesday’s Lexus Melbourne Cup. Valac is an imported eight-year-old gelding by Dark Angel. I’ve had three rides on him for two wins in Group 3 and Listed grade. He comes into this fifth-up this preparation off a disappointing effort last start in the St Ledger at Randwick. If he runs up to his best form and true ability, with the minimum weight of 54 kilos, he will be sure to make his presence felt.

Race 5 is the Group 1 TAB Empire Rose Stakes over 1600 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is ARISTIA who is trained by Mathew Ellerton & Simon Zahra. This four-year-old mare by Lonhro is raced by First Light Racing. This time last year she won the Group 3 Wakeful Stakes over 2000 metres before going on to win the Group 1 VRC Oaks a few days later. She comes into this fourth-up this campaign and has been racing well over 1200 and 1400 metres carrying 59 kilos and will appreciate meeting her rivals on level weights, with the step up in distance also in her favour. She will start from the inside barrier and if she can reproduce her best form from this time last year, will be one of the main chances.

Race 6 is the Group 1 Coolmore Stud Stakes over 1200 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is RUUCA who is trained by Toby & Trent Edmonds. This colt by Rubick has had three lifetime starts for a record of two wins and a third placing. He races here third-up this preparation and had his first Victorian start last time out at Moonee Valley where he put in a good winning effort. This is a big step up in grade that I’m hoping he can take as it is a stallion making Group 1 race.

Race 7 is the Group 1 AAMI Victoria Derby over 2500 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is LONG JACK who is trained by Murray Baker & Andrew Forsman. This colt by So You Think started his career off in New Zealand where he had two second placings as a two-year-old and has been based in Victoria for his four runs this campaign where he has recorded two wins, including last start in the Listed Geelong Classic over 2200 metres with the blinkers going on for the first time. Unfortunately, today he has drawn the outside barrier and will need luck in running. He looks like a horse that will run the trip out very well and has good natural ability.

Race 8 is the Group 1 Kennedy Cantala over 1600 metres, my ride here is FIERCE IMPACT (JPN) who is trained by Matthew Smith. This six-year-old imported entire is by the champion Japanese sire, Deep Impact. He has had 20 starts for four wins and eight placings and is a last start Group 1 winner. This preparation he has had two runs, finishing second at Randwick to Kolding, who went on the win the Group 1 Epsom Handicap. I had my first ride on Fierce Impact last start at Caulfield where we won the Group 1 Toorak Handicap over 1600 metres in a dominant effort after starting from a wide barrier draw. The reports from the stable are that he has trained-on extremely well in-between runs and I’m looking forward to riding him again. He goes up only 1.5 kilos in weight and again will start from a wide barrier draw. I will be keeping an eye on the weather and the way the track is racing to see if that will alter the way he needs to be ridden. If he has luck from the barrier draw I know he has the ability to win this.

Race 9 is the Group 3 Furphy Sprint over 1100 metres for mares, my ride here is DEMERARA who is trained by James Cummings. This five-year-old daughter of Commands is raced by Godolphin. She is lightly raced and has a record of seven wins and three placings from her 16 career starts. Her best form is early in her preparation and she races best when fresh. She races here third-up this preparation and has won previously at the course and distance. I rode her last start where she was very solid in her effort in finishing second at Caulfield. With luck in running on her best form she will be very competitive. She also has winning form on heavy ground should the predicted rain alter the racing surface. 

Sale Preview

Today I’m riding at Sale for the feature race meeting of the year, the Sale Cup. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 3 is the Wynne’s Coaches Maiden Plate over 1400 metres, my ride here is BUMPER BLAST (NZ) who is trained by Robert Hickmott. This four-year-old gelding by Ocean Park is raced by Jenny Chapman and David Price and runs in the Price Bloodstock Management colours. He’s had one lifetime start where he closed off nicely on debut at Seymour over 1300 metres. He is stepping up slightly in distance which he should appreciate and again will start from a wide barrier draw. I expect he will have taken a good amount of natural improvement and experience from his first up run and he will take a lot of beating in this.

Race 4 is the WorkforceXS BM70 Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is GENNADY who is trained by Robbie Laing. This four-year-old entire by Polanski is lightly raced for his age having had just the four starts for a record of two wins. The stable has always had a good opinion of him and he was impressive in his barrier trial before his debut run at Caulfield where he finished 3.1 lengths from the winner, before being spelled. He resumed after a break and won two races in a row at Mornington and Sandown respectively and even though the margin wasn’t much in both races, his effort was very good as he stepped up from maiden to mid-week BM64 city grade. He had one more run at Sandown, finishing fourth and 8 lengths behind the promising Buffalo River, before going for a spell. He resumes here and I have ridden him in an official trial in preparation for his return where he was impressive at Cranbourne on October 7th. I then rode him a week later in a jumpout and felt he went well, but not as good as he was in his first trial. He comes into this with a nice gap from his most recent jumpout and if he runs up to his trial and race form from last preparation, he will be winning this on his way to better races.

Race 7 is the Listed Ladbrokes Sale Cup over 1600 metres, my ride here is MANDELA EFFECT who is trained by Scott Brunton. This five-year-old gelding by Turffontein is trained in Tasmania and is visiting Victoria. He has had 17 starts for eight wins and four second placings. He races here third up this preparation and is having his first start over the mile. I rode him last start where he was unlucky when finishing behind Rox The Castle in the same grade of race over 1400 metres at Caulfield and felt that the extra distance would really suit him. He stays on the minimum weight of 54 kilos and meets Rox The Castle better at the weights. He will start from a favourable, low barrier draw and if we have luck in running in this small but highly competitive field, he can win this.

Race 8 is the Ladbrokes Cash Out BM64 Handicap over 2200 metres, my ride here is CLEVER BLAZE who is trained by Bevan Laming. I’ve ridden this six-year-old mare by Bel Esprit four times previously and she is an unusual character. My first ride on her was at Sandown where she didn’t handle the soft conditions going down the hill, we then finished second at Seymour where she wasn’t beaten far behind the subsequent city winner in Extreme Pride, who I won the first race on at the Caulfield Cup meeting, franking the form. She then went to Cranbourne and travelled really well into the race but failed to finish off over 1600 metres. Two starts later and at her most recent run, she stepped up to 2025 metres at Cranbourne and she felt like she was dropping out and going to run tailed off, but once she got balanced in the straight flew home and made up a lot of ground. She steps up in distance again here and if she put her mind on the job, she has the ability to be very competitive in this.

Race 9 is the BM70 Gipps WiFi - Melbourne Cup Carnival Country Series Heat 7 over 1400 metres, my ride here is STAR MISSILE who is trained by Greg Eurell. This is the same race that Cochada finished second in last year, before going on to win the country final at Flemington during cup week. Star Missile is a four-year-old gelding by Smart Missile that runs in the colours of Hancox Racing. He has had just the 11 starts for a record of two wins and four placings. He has trialled nicely in preparation for his first up run this campaign and his two wins have both been at this distance. From his three runs when racing fresh he has recorded one win and a third placing. He has unfortunately drawn an outside barrier and will need some luck and the track to be racing evenly. All being equal he looks one of the main chances and should take a lot of beating in this and hopefully he can go on to emulate Cochada’s performances from last year. 

Moonee Valley Preview

Today I’m riding at Moonee Valley where the feature race of the day is the Group 1 W.S Cox Plate, run under W.F.A conditions. The rail is in the true position after last night’s meeting and the track is rated in the good range. There is rain and poor weather forecast throughout the day and I’m looking forward to walking the track to see how the racing surface may play.

Race 3 is the Group 2 Antler Luggage Fillies Classic over 1600 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is BONVICINI who is trained by Ciaron Maher & David Eustace. This daughter of Myboycharlie has had four lifetime starts for a record of two wins. Her two wins have been from low barrier draws and unfortunately today she will start from the outside barrier. I galloped her at breakfast with the best here on Tuesday morning and she gave me a nice, solid feel. She was lost in front on her own but when she was joined by her galloping partner was strong to the line. If we have luck from the outside barrier and she runs up to her best form, she can make her presence felt.

Race 5 is the Group 3 1300 Australia Stakes over 1200 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is CIELO D’ORO who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This colt by Medaglia d’Oro is raced by Seymour Bloodstock and Raffles Thoroughbred Racing. He’s had two career starts and I’ve ridden him on both occasions. He was dominant in winning at his debut run at Geelong on soft ground and then had a gap between runs prior to his second start at Bendigo, where he was very solid in his effort to finish third and less than a length from the winner, in what was a slowly run race. He has the blinkers applied to his head gear for the first time and if he brings his good raceday attitude again today and the blinkers have the desired outcome, I expect he will make his presence felt.

Race 8 is the Group 2 Schweppes Crystal Mile over 1600 metres, my ride here is POUNAMU who is trained by Michael Kent. This eight-year-old gelding by Authorized is raced by John Thompson and partners and runs in the New Zealand fern colours. He is the Western Australian Group 1 Kingston Town winner from 2017. He is having his first start for his new trainer and hasn’t been seen at the races since September last year, so it will be interesting to see how he resumes after such a long layoff and expect that he will take natural improvement from this run going forward into his campaign. I’m looking forward to seeing him pre-race for the first time as on his peak WA form and fitness he is a capable galloper.

Race 9 is the feature race of the day, the Group 1 Ladbrokes Cox Plate over 2040 metres.

Race 10 is the Group 3 Powerflo Solutions Stakes over 1600 metres for mares, my ride here is PURE SCOT who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This five-year-old mare by Purrealist races here fourth up and is well treated under the conditions of this race as she carries 54 kilos. She has drawn a favourable barrier today which is something that hasn’t happened at her last two starts. She will gain an economical run in transit from the low barrier draw but whether or not the rail is the place to be by this race after 18 races over the weekend, remains to be seen. On her best form she has the ability to be competitive in this. 

Moonee Valley Preview

This evening I’m riding at the Moonee Valley night races where it’s the first meeting of the Cox Plate carnival weekend. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated in the good range. There is rain forecast throughout the day so it will be interesting to see if and when it arrives and how much Moonee Valley receives, as it may alter the racing surface.

Race 2 is the Chandler Macleod VOBIS Gold Star over 1500 metres, my ride here is AMADEUS who is trained by Michael Kent. This race is restricted to VOBIS Gold horses only. Amadeus is a seven-year-old entire by Amadeus Wolf that is raced by Joan Walker. He races here fourth-up this preparation and will start from a low barrier draw in this small field. He’s had four runs at the distance for three seconds and will have visors added to his head gear for the first time. This is a small but highly competitive field that is racing for very good prizemoney, and includes highly rated horses and regular black type competitors in Widgee Turf and Iconoclasm. If he finds his best form and the gear change improves him, he is one of the main chances.

Race 4 is the 0 - 84 Ladbrokes 55 Second Challenge Heat 3 over 955 metres, my ride here is MORRISSY who is trained by Leon & Troy Corstens. This four-year-old entire by Snitzel is raced by the Morrissy family. He races here first up and has a record of one win and a second placing from his two attempts when racing fresh. I rode him for the first time towards the end of his last preparation where he was dominant when winning a 1200 metre race at Sandown on soft ground. I have ridden him in a recent jumpout in preparation for his first-up run where he went extremely well. He will start from an inside barrier in a race where there is a lot of speed which is typical for a race over this distance. If he brings his best race form and performs up to his recent jumpout, he will be winning this.

Race 6 is the Sweeney Estate Agents Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is MAN OF HIS WORD who is trained by Dean Krongold. This seven-year-old gelding by Lope de Vega is raced by Grand Syndicates. He races here first up and even though he has never won from his eight attempts when racing fresh, he has finished second and third and I was very unlucky on him first up at Caulfield last year when he was having his first run for Dean. He is a horse that usually gets back in running and there looks to be a good amount of speed and pressure in this race which will suit him. If the track is racing evenly and allowing horses to make ground and he finds his best fresh form, he has the ability to make his presence felt.

Race 7 is the feature race of the night, the Group 1 Ladbrokes Manikato Stakes over 1200 metres. 

Geelong Preview

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

Race 4 is the BM84 'A List Racing Dual Choice Plate' over 1200 metres, my ride here is BLUE TYCOON who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This six-year-old gelding by Written Tycoon has had 35 race starts for a record of seven wins and 11 placings and is a very consistent galloper. He races here fifth-up this preparation and is racing over the same distance as all of his runs this campaign. He’s drawn to gain a favourable run in transit from the low barrier draw in this small field and carries 56 kilos. He won two starts ago at Swan Hill where he made all the running and last start at Benalla jumped from a wide barrier and had to work hard in running. He should get a much more economical run from the low barrier draw today in this small but competitive field.

Race 7 is the Group 3 bet365 Geelong Cup over 2400 metres, my ride here is GREY LION (IRE) who is trained by Matthew Smith. This has been a lucky race for me as I’ve won it five times and hope to add to that record again today. Grey Lion is an eight-year-old gelding by Galileo that is raced by Terry Henderson’s OTI Racing and partners. He’s contested this race twice previously for his former trainer, finishing second in 2016 and fourth in 2017. He races here fourth-up this preparation and his three runs this campaign have seen him race twice in Group 3 grade before contesting the Group 1 Metropolitan over 2400 metres last start at Randwick. He was in great form at the end of his last campaign that saw him win at Group 3 and Listed grade in Sydney before finishing second by three quarters of a length to Sixties Groove in the Group 2 Brisbane Cup. This is a strong field of gallopers and if he can recapture his best form he will make his presence felt.

Race 8 is the Listed Roderick Insurance Brokers Geelong Classic over 2200 metres for three-year-olds, my ride here is HE IS who is trained by Mark Kavanagh. This colt by Pierro has had five starts for one win, which came at the start of this preparation. He races here fourth-up this campaign and I’ve ridden him at his last two runs. Two starts ago he finished a length behind the winner at Ballarat over 1400 metres and at his most recent start at Caulfield stepped up to 3YO BM70 grade over 1600 metres and put in an impressive effort after having no luck in running and was strong to the line in finishing fifth. He steps up again in distance today which feels like it will be to his advantage and with clear galloping room he has the ability to win this.

Seymour Preview

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

Race 3 is the Chase Nightclub Maiden Plate over 1200 metres, my ride here is BLUE SAPPHIRE who is trained by Greg Eurell. This four-year-old gelding by Murtajill has had three lifetime starts for a third placing and resumes his second preparation today. He won an official trial over 990 metres before his first up run at Sale where he was solid in his effort. He then stepped up to 1400 metres and then to a mile at his next two starts, with both of those runs being at Sandown in strong maiden grade. He acquitted himself well throughout his first preparation without winning and showed that he is capable of racing over further distances as he progresses throughout his career. He had an official trial at Cranbourne over 800 metres recently, he held his own on what was very heavy track conditions and I expect he will be much happier on top of the ground today. He has the blinkers applied to his head gear for the first time and if they have the desired effect he will be one of the main chances.

Race 6 is the BM64 Seymour Toyota BM64 Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is CAPTAIN HEDDERWICK who is trained by my brother Damien Williams. This four-year-old gelding is by Captain Gerrard. He’s had two lifetime starts and I’ve ridden him in both. He made his debut at Geelong on heavy ground and was successful when beating Chasing Returns, who subsequently won his next start at Sale and has since been sold to Hong Kong. CAPTAIN HEDDERWICK resumed this preparation at Cranbourne at a metropolitan meeting in a BM64 race over 1200 metres and was disappointing in his effort as he had been working very well in the lead up. He comes into this race with the blinkers on for the first time under raceday conditions and I rode him in a jumpout at Cranbourne on Monday and felt that the blinkers have really sharpened him up and I was impressed with him. If he runs up to Monday’s jumpout he will be hard to beat.

Race 7 is the Listed Bet365 Seymour Cup over 1600 metres, my ride here is ADMIRAL’S JOKER who is trained by Kylie Vella. This seven-year-old gelding by Bel Esprit is raced by the Butler family. He is a lightly raced galloper who has been very well managed throughout his career, from his 12 race starts he has recorded five wins and four second placings. He is a true competitor who knows how to win. He has been racing in outstanding form at his past four starts with lines around Mr Quickie who ran in yesterday’s Caulfield Cup, Dr Drill who I won last week’s Cranbourne Cup on, La Tigeresa who won at Moe on Thursday and Rox The Castle who is now a dual Listed winner. ADMIRAL’S JOKER is stepping up to Listed grade and goes up only 2 kilos in weight from his last start win at Caulfield which was over 1400 metres and has the visors applied to his head gear again. He is drawn to get the run of the race from a low barrier draw and should be too good for his rivals. He is a horse I have a lot of time for and this is a good stepping stone for him going forward into the Spring.

Race 8 is the BM70 Steph Ryan The Melbourne Cup Carnival Country Series Heat 5 over 1600 metres, my ride here is AREE AL (NZ) who is trained by Robbie Laing. This four-year-old gelding by Reliable Man is lightly raced and hasn’t missed a top four placing from his four career starts. He is a consistent horse who races off the speed and I’ve been instructed to ride him back in the field from an outside barrier draw. He races here on the quick turn around after running at Moe on Thursday where he finished second over the same distance. He looks like he’s got a lot of ability and is a horse that keep progressing the more racing he does. If the track is racing fairly and allowing horses to close off from back in the field I expect him to be one of the main chances, provided he handles racing on the quick turn-around.

Race 9 is the BM78 Avenel Equine Hospital VRC Grand Hcp Ballot Exempt Race 6 over 1000 metres, my ride here is GIBBON who is trained by Barry Goodwin. This seven-year-old gelding is by Bon Hoffa. He is having his second run since changing trainers and I also rode him in his first run for Barry in BM84 grade at Moonee Valley over 955 metres where he was beaten by 3.1 lengths finishing in 6^th placing to Humma Humma, who subsequently won yesterday at Caulfield in Listed grade. GIBBON is a horse that gets back in running and needs a lot of luck but there looks to be good speed on paper in this race which will suit him. This is now his home track and he looks well placed to be very competitive in this.

Caulfield Cup Day Preview

Today I’m riding at Caulfield where it’s Caulfield Cup day. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated in the good range. There are showers and poor weather is forecast throughout the day and it will be interesting to see if there is any wind, as this can be detrimental to the way races are run and won here. The rail was in this position last Saturday for Guineas Day before being moved out 10 metres for Wednesday’s meeting.

Race 1 is the BM80 Keno Classic Handicap over 1700 metres, my ride here is EXTREME PRIDE who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This four-year-old mare by I Am Invincible is lightly raced having had eight starts for a record of three wins. Her three wins have been in her last three runs and she has been very well placed and allowed to go through her grades. I had my first ride on her last start at Sale where we won over 1600 metres in F&M BM64 grade and thought she was solid in her effort. She steps up slightly in distance and can be a little bit keen in her races, so I will be mindful of that and hopefully she can relax well and conserve her energy. She drops 6 kilos in weight from her last start here today and will take a lot of beating in this.

Race 2 is the QMS Media Plate over 1400 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is TUBBY TWO TRACKS who is trained by Chris Bieg. This daughter of Declaration Of War runs in the colours of Tom Curnow’s Aqua Trained Thoroughbreds. She’s had three lifetime starts, winning on debut at Morphettville on the Parks track by four lengths before being spelled. She resumed this preparation at Morphettville on soft ground over 1200 metres finishing less than four lengths from the winner in ROCCABASCERANA, who finished fourth in the Guinea’s Prelude. Her second-up run saw her finish two lengths from the winner on the Parks circuit on October 5^thand she races here third-up this preparation. She is a consistent filly and if she has luck in running will make her presence felt in this small but competitive field.

Race 3 is the Listed Polytrack Gothic Stakes over 1400 metres for three-year-old colts and geldings, my ride here is NICCONI STORM who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This colt by Nicconi is raced by Flying Start Syndications and partners. He’s had two starts for a third placing and is a maiden galloper. He placed third on debut at Cranbourne in what is a strong form race finishing 1.25 lengths from the winner and was subsequently spelled. He resumed this campaign at Benalla as the favourite over 1200 metres to finish fourth, under half a length from the winner. This is a small but strong field and it would be a nice way to win maiden in Listed grade.

Race 5 is the Listed Carlton Draught Alinghi Stakes over 1100 metres, my ride here is DEMERARA who is trained by James Cummings. This daughter of Commands is raced by Godolphin. She’s had 15 starts, winning on seven occasions. From her seven first up runs she has won five times. She resumed first up this preparation when I rode her in the Group 2 Bobby Lewis at Flemington against open age horses to finish less than three lengths from the winner. The form from that race has been franked with the winner Zoutori finishing third behind the two favourites for today’s The Everest at his next start in the Gilgai. She comes into this with a gap between runs which she appreciates and she races well on all types of ground having won on a heavy track previously. She will start from a favourable barrier draw and will take a lot of beating today.

Race 7 is the Group 2 McCafé Caulfield Sprint over 1000 metres, my ride here is MCLAREN who is trained by Peter & Paul Snowden. This three-year-old rig by Exceed And Excel runs in the colours of China Horse Club and is raced by Newgate Bloodstock and partners. He’s only had three starts for a win and third placing which were all in his first preparation. He won a Group 3 over 1100 metres at Rosehill on debut before contesting the Group 2 Silver Slipper finishing fourth, where he raced on-speed before dropping out over the concluding stages. He had one more run before going for a spell to finish third in the Group 3 Black Opal in Canberra. He’s had two official trials in NSW to have him ready for his first up run and he is a talented horse that has a lot of natural speed. This will be his first run in Melbourne and it gives me confidence the stable are happy running him against the older horses. He gets into this race with the light weight of 53 kilos and will take a lot of running down, provided he handles the Caulfield circuit which I expect he will after watching his replays.

Race 9 is the feature of the day, the Group 1 Stella Artois Caulfield Cup over 2400 metres.

Race 10 is the Group 2 Schweppes Tristarc Stakes over 1400 metres for mares, my ride here is SAVATIANO who is trained by James Cummings. This five-year-old mare by Street Cry is raced by Godolphin. From her 24 career starts she has a record of six wins and 11 placings. She is a highly competitive mare who knows how to win and always runs well. She races here second up and is racing over the same distance as her first up run. She has drawn an outside barrier and we will have a good understanding of how the track is racing by this race. She is a horse that generally races on-speed and makes her own luck, if she doesn’t have to do too much work in the early stages she will take a lot of running down. 

Caulfield Preview

Today I’m riding at Caulfield where it’s the middle day of the Caulfield Carnival. The rail is out 10 metres and the track is rated in the good range, with showers forecast throughout the day.

Race 1 is the BM84 Nick Johnstone Real Estate Handicap over 2407 metres, my ride here is CREEDENCE who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This five-year-old gelding is by Helmet. This race looks to shape up well for him as he is dropping back in grade from his solid effort last start at Mornington in Listed grade where he finished third behind Valac. He has been racing consistently throughout this preparation and there is no reason why he can’t win this.

Race 2 is the BM78 Alfa Romeo Plate over 2000 metres, my ride here is SPECIAL ALERT who is trained by Andrew Noblet. This five-year-old mare by Not a Single Doubt is raced by Seymour Bloodstock and Aquis Farm. She won the Group 3 W.A Oaks over 2400 metres as a three-year old before being transferred to Victoria to be campaigned in Melbourne. She races here fifth up this preparation and will be at peak fitness as she has gradually been building in distance. I rode her two starts ago at Moonee Valley where she raced in the same grade of race over 1600 metres, she found a nice position in running from an inside barrier, but when we needed to quicken I didn’t have much room and felt that was detrimental to her finishing position. She then stepped up to 84 F&M grade at her next start over 1800 metres at Caulfield, finishing less than a length from the winner. She steps up in distance again today and if she doesn’t have to do too much work from an outside barrier, this is a race that she will take a lot of beating in.

Race 3 is the Group 3 Ladbrokes Coongy Cup over 2000 metres, my ride here is MURAAQEB who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. The winner of this race is exempt from the ballot from this Saturday’s Caulfield Cup, if they choose to run on the quick turnaround. MURAAQEB is an entire by Snitzel that is raced by Shadwell Stud Australasia. He is a well-travelled horse who went to Dubai at the end of his last preparation and had two runs at Meydan. He is up in grade and has drawn an outside barrier draw, so it will be interesting to see what my instructions are pre-race. On face-value we will need a lot of luck in running from the tricky draw.

Race 4 is the BM70 DrinkWise Plate over 1600 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is HE IS who is trained by Mark Kavanagh. This colt by Pierro has had four starts for one win, which was two starts ago in his first up run at Echuca over 1200 metres. He then stepped up in distance to 1400 metres where I rode him at Ballarat in his most recent run, he finished fifth out of eight but was only one length from the winner. He isn’t an overly big horse but I was pleased with his performance last start and feel he will appreciate the step up in distance of today’s race. From an inside barrier draw and with luck in running he can definitely make his presence felt.

Race 5 is the BM84 BECK Probuild Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is AMADEUS who is trained by Michael Kent. This seven-year-old entire by Amadeus Wolf is raced by Joan Walker. He is a horse that I have had a lot to do with throughout his career and know him well, I actually rode him in his debut run as a three-year-old at Pakenham in 2016 where we were successful over 1000 metres. I have ridden him in his two runs this preparation and he races here third up and is stepping up in distance. He will be fitter for his recent racing and is racing over a distance that he is very effective at, only missing a top two placing once from his six attempts over the 1400 metres. He is yet to win at the course but has placed three times from five attempts. If he brings his best form he has the ability to win this and his last start effort gave me the feel he is right on the cusp of finding that form again.

Race 6 is the Listed Ladbrokes Village Stakes over 1200 metres, my ride here is HANDSOME THIEF (IRE) who is trained by John & Chris Meagher. This seven-year-old gelding by Shamardal is raced by Paul Fudge of Waratah Thoroughbreds. Since being transferred to be trained from a Queensland base he has really found form again and has been racing consistently this preparation. I have ridden him previously with success in the past and am looking forward to riding him again. The stable have reported that he seems to appreciate racing on ground with a good amount of give in it, so hopefully today’s conditions suit him. He has drawn an outside barrier and will need some luck in running but on his best form, he is one of the main chances.

Race 8 is the Group 3 FDC Ladies' Day Vase over 1600 metres for mares, my ride here is PURE SCOT who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. I’ve ridden this five-year-old daughter of Purrealist previously and have been successful on her twice from my five attempts and placed third in a Group 3 race at Flemington. She races here third-up this preparation and is stepping up to a distance that she has won twice over previously. Unfortunately, she has drawn a very wide barrier and is taking on a highly competitive Group 3 field. We will need a lot of things to go right for her in running from the draw but hopefully she can run well here and look further into the Spring. 

Cranbourne Preview

Today I’m riding at Cranbourne where it’s Cranbourne Cup Day. The rail is out 3 metres and the track is rated in the good range. The rail was in the true position for the Friday night meeting and it looked to be an advantage to be close to the speed, so it will be interesting to walk the track and see how it plays throughout the day with the rail moved out.

Race 4 is the BM64 Lofts Quarries Handicap over 2025 metres, my ride here is CLEVER BLAZE who is trained by Bevan Laming. I’ve ridden this six-year-old mare by Bel Esprit previously and come into today with a good understanding of her. She is a mare that preferers to race on firm ground and this will be my first ride on her over an extended trip, with my previous rides being over 1600 metres. Three starts ago she performed really well in BM58 grade to be narrowly beaten by a horse that subsequently won its next start. She was a little bit plain on face value at her next start where she loomed at the top of the straight and was disappointing over the last 200 metres. Hopefully she will appreciate the step up in distance of today’s race and can reproduce her best form.

Race 6 is the BM70 Hertz Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is NANGAWOOKA who is trained by Matthew Brown. This seven-year-old gelding is by Equiano. He is a consistent and honest horse with a record of five wins and 15 placings from his 40 lifetime starts. He drops back in grade here from his last start at Flemington in BM78 grade to BM70, which is his current rating. This is a small but competitive field and he will take a lot of beating in this on his best form.

Race 8 is the Procon Developments Apache Cat Classic over 1000 metres, my ride here is BANDIPUR who is trained by Richard Laming. I’ve been successful on this five-year-old gelding by Commands twice previously when he was trained by James Cummings. He has competed at stakes level in his past four runs and the last time he raced in a handicap I won on him at Caulfield. He will appreciate the drop back in grade and comes into this race fresh with some five weeks between runs. He meets a strong field here but on his best form will take a lot of beating and I’m looking forward to riding him again.

Race 9 is the Listed TAB Cranbourne Cup over 2025 metres, my ride here is DR DRILL (GB) who is trained by Ciaron Maher & David Eustace. This five-year-old gelding by Dansili is raced by Glenvallen Investments. I’ve had two rides on him, performing very well at Flemington and more recently for a second at Moonee Valley where he got out late and finished the race off strongly. He then went to Sydney and won a BM88 over 1900 metres with 59.5 kilos. He steps up to Listed grade here, drops to 54 kilos and is stepping up slightly in distance. With his current consistent form and light weight, he looks well placed and is the horse to beat in the feature race of the day.

Race 10 is the BM78 De Bortoli Wines Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is JESTA DREAMA who is trained by Wendy Kelly. This six-year-old gelding by Bon Hoffa has had 26 starts for a record of five wins and eight placings. I had my first ride on him last start at Caulfield in the same grade and distance as today’s race. He was in a lovely position in running but they went very slow and when the field quickened, he was left a little bit flat footed but I loved the way he closed the race off to finish just over four lengths behind the promising horse, Harbour Views. Even though he is unplaced from him three attempts at this track, today’s race looks like it should map well for Jesta Dreamer provided the track is racing fairly as he will be ridden off the speed from the wide barrier. I expect him to be closing the race off strongly and be very hard to beat. 

Caulfield Preview

Today I’m riding at Caulfield for the Guineas meeting where there are four Group 1’s on the opening day of the Caulfield Spring Racing Carnival. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 2 is the Listed The Big Screen Company Weekend Hussler over 1400 metres, my ride here is MANDELA EFFECT who is trained by Scott Brunton. This five-year-old gelding by Turffontein is a horse that knows how to win, having won eight starts and placed second a further four times. From his two attempts at the track and distance he has won once and from his six attempts over the distance, has won three times. He races here second up and has a record of one win and two placings from four second-up attempts. He ran very well last start at Moonee Valley to be beaten by less than a length and was closing the race off well over 1200 metres. He steps up in grade to Listed company, is dropping in weight to carrying 54 kilos and has drawn the inside barrier. He is a horse that usually gets back in running so it will be interesting to see where he settles in this small field. With the light weight and favourable barrier draw he will be one of the main chances in this competitive race.

Race 4 is the Group 3 Bass Strait Beef Steaks over 1400 metres for mares, my ride here is RESIN who is trained by James Cummings. This five-year-old daughter of Exceed And Excel is raced by Godolphin. From her 16 career starts she has a record of five wins and four placings. She races here following on from her first up run at Flemington and has great form second-up, not missing a top two placing from her three attempts. Her form over the distance shows three wins and two placings from her seven attempts. She will start from a middle barrier and in this strong Group 3 contest I expect she can run her usual honest race and make her presence felt.

Race 5 is the Group 2 Ladbrokes Herbert Power Stakes over 2400 metres, my ride here is GLORY DAYS (NZ) who is trained by Bill Thurlow. The winner of this race gains a ballot exemption into next Saturday’s Group 1 Caulfield Cup, so it’s an important race on the card leading into next weekend. Glory Days is a seven-year-old mare by Red Giant that is visiting from New Zealand for her Spring campaign. She is a Group 1 winner in New Zealand where she won the Auckland Cup over 3200 metres before finishing third in the Sydney Cup earlier this year. She races here fourth-up this preparation and has gradually been stepping up in distance at each of her runs and building up to the 2400. She is one start for one win at her only attempt over this distance and her two runs since arriving to Melbourne have been excellent without winning and she was very unlucky last start at Moonee Valley. I’ve ridden her in both of her Victorian runs and even though she has drawn a low barrier today, she is not a horse that is able to take advantage of the draw to hold a position as she is better when she gets back and conserves her energy for a finishing burst. If the track is playing evenly and allowing horses to make ground from back in the field, there is no reason why she can’t be one of the main chances and be right in this at the finish.

Race 6 is the Group 1 Schweppes Thousand Guineas over 1600 metres for fillies, my ride here is ACTING (NZ) who is trained by Trent Busuttin & Natalie Young. This daughter of Savabeel is raced by Waikato Stud. She’s had four lifetime starts, winning at her last three runs and has progressed this preparation from winter 2-year-old form on soft and heavy ground, to winning a Group 2 last start over 1400 metres in preparation for today’s assignment. She is a horse that makes her own luck by racing on-speed and even though it’s a small field, it is highly competitive. She is a filly in winning form and will take a lot of beating in this.

Race 8 is the Group 1 Ladbrokes Caulfield Guineas over 1600 metres, my ride here is VEGAS KNIGHT who is trained by Colin Little. This gelding by Declaration Of War has had six starts for a record of one win and three placings. I did a lot of his early education work before his debut run and had my first race ride on him last start at Moonee Valley where we had no luck and were stuck wide throughout, he still had the tenacity to keep fighting to finish half a length from the winner in second place. He stays at the same distance as last start and he’s such a tough, honest horse and if he has luck from the tricky barrier draw he can make his presence felt in this Group 1 feature.

Race 9 is the Group 1 Lamaro's Hotel Sth Melbourne Toorak Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is FIERCE IMPACT (JPN) who is trained by Matthew Smith. This six-year-old entire is by Deep Impact who was sadly lost to the global breeding world earlier this year and it would be fitting if his son Fierce Impact could win a Group 1 feature to secure his future at stud. He started his racing career off in England before being imported to Australia. From his 19 starts he has won three races and has been placed on another eight occasions. He resumed this preparation last start at Randwick over 1400 metres with the blinkers on and was narrowly defeated by Kolding, who subsequently won the Group 1 Epsom Handicap at his next start. He will carry the light weight of 54.5 kilos under the handicap conditions of this race for his second up run. From his three attempts over this distance he has only missed a top two placing once. If he has luck in running from an awkward barrier draw he is clearly one of the main chances in this very competitive field.

Race 10 is the Group 2 Alfa Romeo Schillaci Stakes over 1100 metres, my ride here is BALL OF MUSCLE who is trained by Joseph Pride. The winner of this race wins a slot into The Everest over 1200 metres next week in Sydney, so there will be plenty of interest around this years’ edition. Ball Of Muscle is a nine-year-old gelding by Dubawi who I won this race on last year. He has had a similar lead-up to last year in preparation for this race and even though he comes into this after running last in the Moir Stakes at his most recent run, he did the same last year. He loves racing at Caulfield and hasn’t missed a top three placing from his three attempts at the track and distance. He’s had 12 runs at this distance for five wins and four placings. He really thrives at this course and distance and ticks a lot of boxes for this event. He comes in well at the weights under the conditions of this race and if brings his same form from last year, he will take a lot of running down.

Mornington Preview

Today I’m riding at Mornington. The rail is out 4 metres and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 1 is a Three-Years-Old fillies maiden over 1200 metres, my ride here is BOREAS who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This daughter of Medaglia d’Oro is raced by Robert Crabtree of Dorrington Farm. She’s had one start at Tatura where she finished mid-field and was some seven lengths from the winner. She comes into this race with the benefit of a first up run under her belt and is stepping up slightly in distance, she also has the blinkers added to head gear for the first time. Hopefully she has taken natural improvement from her first outing and the blinkers have the desired outcome and help her focus.

Race 4 is a maiden over 2430 metres, my ride here is LUCKY EDWARD who is trained by Tony Vasil. This three-year-old gelding by Sebring runs in the Lucky Owners colours. He’s had two lifetime starts and is stepping up sharply in distance having raced over 1800 metres last start at Flemington in the Derby Trial. He is a three-year-old having only his third lifetime start and if he has made the right progression should be very hard to beat in this moderate field. He also has the advantage of starting from an inside barrier and that should help offset his inexperience the against more seasoned, older horses in this field.

Bendigo Preview

Today I’m riding at Bendigo where it’s a metropolitan meeting. The rail is out 5 metres and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 5 is the Wild Plumbing Three-Years-Old Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is ALADAALA who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This filly by Redoute’s Choice is raced by Shadwell Stud Australasia. She’s had four lifetime starts for two wins. She won at the end of her last preparation as a two-year-old on the synthetic track and again when resuming this campaign as a three-year-old at Moe on soft ground, where she came from off the speed. She is stepping up to the 1400 metres for the first time and it will be interesting to see what my instructions are from the wide draw over the distance. She comes into this race full of confidence and this will be a good stepping stone for her as she progresses further into the Spring.

Race 6 is the Roll the Dice Three-Years-Old BM64 Handicap over 1100 metres, my ride here is CIELO D’ORO who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This colt by Medaglia d’Oro is raced by Darren Thomas of Seymour Bloodstock and Raffles Thoroughbred Racing. I rode him when he made a winning debut at Geelong over the same distance as today’s race, on soft ground. He races here second up and will have taken confidence and natural improvement from his first-up win. He gave me the feel of a horse with above average ability at Geelong and he should take a lot of beating in this.

Race 8 is the BM70 Bendigo Mazda MRC Grand Handicap Exempt Race over 1600 metres, my ride here is BLENDERS EDITION who is trained by Robert Hickmott. This six-year-old gelding by Trusting is very lightly raced for his age having had just the three runs, for two wins. He was undefeated in his first two starts when he commenced his racing career in NSW in 2017. He had a long lay-off and resumed again at Caulfield over 1400 metres at the end of September in BM78 grade to finish just under four lengths behind Harbour Views, who is undefeated in his four race starts. With the benefit of a first-up run under his belt and a drop back in grade, he looks well suited in this race. He is an exciting horse going forward but does need luck in running as he usually gets back in the field in the early stages. On his natural ability and good form, he should be right in this at the finish. 

Flemington Preview

Today I’m riding at Flemington where it’s Turnbull Stakes Day. The rail is out 9 metres and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 3 is the Listed Antler Luggage Poseidon Stakes over 1100 metres for three-year-olds, my ride here is PIN SEC who is trained by James Cummings. This daughter of Lonhro is raced by Godolphin. She’s had six career starts for a record of two wins and a third placing. She won the Group 3 Black Opal in Canberra at her second start after winning on debut at Randwick. Her two runs this preparation have both been in Melbourne, she closed off nicely first up at Caulfield to be beaten by just under three lengths and at her most recent run looked to be plain on face value, but looking back at the pattern of racing for the day there may have been excuses for her. She has changes to her head gear today with the blinkers and tongue tie going on and cross over nose band being removed. She was keen and fresh in a recent Flemington jumpout and this will be her first attempt racing over the straight course. If she handles the straight course and finds her best form she has the ability to make her presence felt.

Race 4 is the Group 2 Blazer Stakes over 1400 metres for mares, my ride here is MY PENDANT (NZ) who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This daughter of Pins is raced by Waikato Stud and partners. I’ve won on her previously and was reunited with her last start at Flemington where she was having her fourth run for the preparation. She finished less than 1.5 lengths from the winner in that race and meets a similar field of mares again today. I rode My Pendant through the week and feel that she is holding her form well and expect that with luck in running she can win this Group 2 race.

Race 5 is the Listed McGregor Portables Super Impose Stakes over 1800 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is SACRAMENTO who is trained by Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott. This gelding by Pierro is raced by Robert Crabtree of Dorrington Farm. He’s had five starts and is still a maiden. He placed third at his most recent start at Flemington over the same distance where he was less than a length from the winner. He looks and has the bloodlines to be a true stayer and this will be his second attempt racing over the 1800 metres. He is a fit horse and it would be a great result if his maiden win is in Listed grade.

Race 6 is the Group 2 Gilgai Stakes over 1200 metres, my ride here is TYZONE who is trained by Toby & Trent Edmonds. This six-year-old gelding by Written Tycoon runs in Tom Hedley’s colours. This race has turned out to be a very strong field with Sunlight and Santa Ana Lane racing here in preparation for The Everest. Tyzone has got great form from his last campaign, he was consistent throughout his five runs and won the Group 3 BRC Sprint before finishing second in the Group 1 Stradbroke. He is a horse of high quality with good ability and has a great record when racing fresh. If he handles racing over the straight course he has a chance to beat the two favourites.

Race 8 is the Group 3 Bart Cummings over 2520 metres, my ride here is ETYMOLOGY who is trained by James Cummings. This seven-year-old gelding by New Approach is raced by Godolphin. He races here fourth up this preparation and is stepping up to his preferred distance range. From his three attempts over this trip he has never missed a top two placing and his seven runs at the track have seen him produce a record of two wins and four placings. His record at the track and distance is also very good as he hasn’t been out of the top two from his two attempts. He has drawn an outside barrier so it will be interesting to see what my instructions are pre-race. If he finds his best form on the track and distance that he loves, he will be right in this at the finish.

Race 9 is the Group 2 TAB Edward Manifold Stakes over 1600 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is EXCUSED who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This daughter of Medaglia d’Oro is raced by Colin and Janice McKenna and Darren Thomas of Seymour Bloodstock. She’s had four career starts and hasn’t been out of the top five. I’ve ridden her on three occasions, winning her maiden on heavy ground at Sandown and the next time I rode her was also at Sandown where we finished third in a strong form race. At her most recent start we finished second in Listed grade at Caulfield on September 21^st, her effort was solid as she had to work outside of the leaders after drawing a wide barrier. She is stepping up to the 1600 metres for the first time and has drawn more favourably today. She is an honest mare that makes her own luck in running and will be one of the main chances in this. 

Moonee Valley Preview

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

Race 2 is the BM64 Crown Resorts Handicap over 1600 metres for three-year-olds, my ride here is SPRINGROLLS who is trained by Tim Hughes. This daughter of Carlton House is raced by Tam and Jackie Dieu. She races here third up this preparation and I had my first ride on her last start at Sale where she stepped up in distance and put in a good effort when breaking her maiden over the 1400 metres. She steps up in distance again here and comes into this race with confidence from her last start win. She also has the advantage of having raced around this course previously when she resumed this preparation in the Listed Atlantic Jewel Stakes over 1200 metres. Provided she handles the night racing conditions and she’s taken further improvement from her last start, I expect she will take a lot of beating in this.

Race 6 is the BM78 handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is LATIN BEAT (IRE) who is trained by Saab Hasan. This six-year-old gelding by Galileo was imported to Australia from Europe and raced under the care of Macedon Lodge after arriving. He was then purchased by Saab and his owners and raced first up for his new trainer on September 25^th at Flemington over 1400 metres where he finished less than three lengths from the winner. He is now stepping up to a more suitable distance range and it will be interesting to see how the track races with the wide rail placement. I’m looking forward to having my first ride on him as there will be plenty of suitable options for him going forward if he can find his best form tonight.

Ballarat Preview

Today I’m riding at Ballarat where it’s a metropolitan meeting. The rail is out 4 metres from the 600 – 1600m and true for the remainder, the turf is rated in the good range.

Race 2 is the Eureka Concrete SV 3YO Fillies Maiden Plate over 1200 metres, my ride here is BELLARINE BEAUTY who is trained by Leon & Troy Corstens. This daughter of Not a Single Doubt is raced by Mirunners Racing No. 1. I rode her in her debut run at Seymour which was her first lifetime start, she finished less than two lengths behind Aerozoom, who subsequently won again at Bendigo last week. BELLARINE BEAUTY steps up in distance here and returns to racing against her own age and sex. I expect she will have taken natural improvement and benefit from her first up run and be very competitive here. She also has the blinkers applied to her head gear for the first time.

Race 3 is the Pipe Pro Directional Drilling 3YO BM64 Handicap over 1100 metres, my ride here is INVINCIBLE LOTUS who is trained by Brent Stanley. This filly by I Am Invincible runs in the colours of Tru Blu Bloodstock. She had three runs last preparation, winning on debut at Seymour in impressive style before being tested at Group 3 level in Sydney. She contested the Magic Night over 1200 metres which is one of the main lead-up races to the Golden Slipper and she was beaten by the subsequent Slipper winner in Kiamichi. She then returned to Victoria and raced in the VOBIS Gold Rush over 1000 metres at Bendigo before being spelled. She runs first up here and is racing at the same distance that she won on debut over and will start from a favourable barrier draw. I expect her to be one of the main chances in this competitive race.

Race 5 is the Porter Plant Class 1 Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is HE IS who is trained by Mark Kavanagh. This three-year-old colt by Pierro has had three starts lifetime starts with two of those being last preparation. He won his maiden first up this campaign over 1200 metres and the form around his two runs from his first preparation is solid. He has drawn a wide barrier and is stepping up in distance today. He comes into this race with confidence from his last start win and with some luck in running from the barrier draw, should be right in this at the finish.

Race 6 is the Hygain Winners Choice F&M BM64 Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is FI STYLE who is trained by Helen White. This five-year-old mare by Smart Missile is lightly raced with a record of one win and six placings from her seven career starts. Although she has only won once, she is a very consistent mare who hasn’t missed a top three placing in any of her runs. She races here second up and this will be my first ride on her. With the benefit of a low barrier draw she will take a lot of beating in this and looks well placed by her trainer to continue her consistent record.

Race 7 is the Sportsbet – Foolproof BM70 Handicap over 1100 metres, my ride here is EVIL CRY who is trained by Robbie Laing. This five-year-old entire by Street Cry is raced by Ray and Sue Montague and partners. He’s had 24 starts for a record of three wins and six placings. Throughout his career he has shown glimpses of very good ability and if he reproduces that form today, he has the ability to win this.

Race 8 is the Hygain Winners Choice BM64 Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is TELL THE TRUTH who is trained by Andrew Noblet. This six-year-old gelding by Star Witness wears the colours of the Harding family. He races here first up and from his six attempts when racing fresh has won once and placed twice. From his five runs over the mile he has recorded one win and a second placing. He has drawn an outside barrier and after watching his replays he looks to be a horse that settles in the second half of the field before being asked for an effort. Hopefully the track is playing fairly and allowing horses to run on from back in the field as that will suit his racing pattern. Interestingly, his three wins have all been on the synthetic surface and it would be good to see him bring that form to the turf today. I’m looking forward to having my first ride on him and seeing if he can produce his best form first up over the mile. 

Caulfield Preview

Today I’m riding at Caulfield. The rail is out 6 metres and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 2 is a BM90 for mares over 1100 metres, my ride here is PETRELLE who is trained by Archie Alexander. This five-year-old daughter of Fastnet Rock is raced by Austin Miller and partners. She is a talented mare that has only missed a top two placing twice from her seven lifetime starts and has recorded four wins. She is undefeated when racing first up and she is resuming her preparation today. I won at my second ride on her when competing in the same ratings race as this event, carrying 54 kilos at the end of her last campaign over 1200 metres, where she was third-up. She resumes here and with great first-up form and a favourable barrier draw, she will be the horse they all have to beat.

Race 4 is the BECK Probuild Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is ADMIRAL’S JOKER who is trained by Kylie Vella. This seven-year-old gelding by Bel Esprit is raced by the Butler family. He is lightly raced for his age having had 11 starts and has a consistent record, winning four races and placing second another four times. I rode him three times last preparation for a win at Geelong over 1700 metres in BM64 grade, then at Sandown where the surface was soft and shifty which he didn’t appreciate and was unplaced, and at his next start we then finished second to Mr Quickie at this course over 2000 metres in the VOBIS Gold Heath in his first attempt over that distance. Admiral’s Joker then came out and beat Dr Drill at Flemington, who has subsequently won three more city races. He then had a break from training and resumed his campaign with a dominant win at Geelong on soft ground and races second up today. He will start from a low barrier draw, is stepping up in distance and drops to the minimum weight. He is one of the main chances in this very competitive field.

Race 5 is the Group 3 Ladbrokes Caulfield Guineas Prelude over 1400 metres for colts and geldings, my ride here is PEIDRA who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This gelding by Pierro has had four lifetime starts and was undefeated after his first two runs. He then had three weeks’ between runs and even though he has been unplaced in his past two starts, he has only been beaten by two lengths in both. He is well treated under the set weights and penalty conditions of this race as he carries the minimum of 55 kilos. His performance today will provide a good guide as to where he fits in for the Guineas next month.

Race 9 is the BM78 Bass Strait Beef Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is JESTA DREAMA who is trained by Wendy Kelly. This six-year-old gelding by Bon Hoffa has been consistent and competitive throughout his 25-start career, winning five races and placing another eight times. He races here fifth up this preparation and is three weeks between runs. He steps up to the 1400 metres which is a distance he has raced over nine times for a record of four wins and two minor placings. He should gain an economical run in transit from the low barrier draw and he seems to be a horse with a versatile racing pattern. This will be my first race ride on him but after watching his replays he seems a straightforward horse to ride. On his best form and with the advantage of an inside barrier draw he should be right in this at the finish.

Mornington Preview

Today I’m riding at Mornington and it’s AFL Grand Final Day, I support Richmond and wish them all the best! The rail is in the true position on track at Mornington and the surface is rated in the soft range.

Race 7 is the Listed R.M. Ansett Classic over 2400 metres, my ride here is VALAC (IRE) who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This eight-year-old gelding by Dark Angel started his racing career in Europe before being imported to Australia. I’ve had two rides on him, winning the Group 3 Queens Cup over 2500 metres at Morphettville earlier this year and then again when he resumed this preparation over an unsuitable distance of 1700 metres and wasn’t beaten far on that occasion. He finished second last at his most recent start over 1800 metres and is now stepping up to a more suitable distance range. He will also be fitter for having the benefit of two runs this campaign and drops to 54 kilos. If he doesn’t have to work too hard in the early stages from a wide barrier draw and finds his best form, he will make his presence felt. 

Moonee Valley Preview

This evening I’m riding at Moonee Valley where it’s the first night racing meeting of the season. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 2 is the Group 2 MSC Signs Stutt Stakes over 1600 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is VEGAS KNIGHT who is trained by Colin Little. This gelding by Declaration Of War has had five career starts for a record of one win and two placings. Even though I haven’t ridden him under race conditions, I did do a lot of the early work on him as a two-year-old and jumped him out before his first up run this preparation. He can be an aggressive horse to ride but gives me the feel that he is starting to do things a lot more smoothly as he matures. He won his maiden on the synthetic track at Pakenham where he went forward and dominated, winning by 6 lengths. Since his maiden win he has relaxed a lot better and is able to close his races off. He will start from an outside barrier in what is a small field and I know he has a versatile racing pattern, so I can ride him as needed when the gates open. If he produces his best form and has luck from the barrier I know he has the ability to win this.

Race 4 is the BM84 Ladbrokes 55 Second Challenge Heat 1 over 955 metres, my ride here is GIBBON who is trained by Barry Goodwin. This seven-year-old gelding by Bon Hoffa is having his first start since changing trainers. I have ridden him with success throughout his career and he has an overall record of five wins and 13 placings from his 42 starts. He has galloped nicely in preparation for tonight’s race and will start from a low barrier draw. He is a horse that generally gets back in his races and always needs a lot of luck. This is a very competitive field, but if he has luck from the draw he can make his presence felt.

Race 6 is the Group 3 Ladbrokes JRA Cup over 2040 metres, my ride here is GLORY DAYS (NZ) who is trained by Bill Thurlow. This seven-year-old mare by Red Giant is currently based in Victoria while she is visiting from New Zealand. She is a talented staying mare who races here third-up this preparation. I had my first ride on her last start at Flemington where she closed off really well over 1700 metres. She is not a big horse in stature, but has a big heart and has good ability. After riding her at Flemington I understand her better, I feel that it’s about managing her speed and getting her to relax and conserve her energy in a nice rhythm. She will appreciate the step up in distance and should figure in the finish here as she progresses onto bigger staying targets throughout the Spring carnival.

Race 8 is the Pro Star Entertainment BM84 Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is AMADEUS who is trained by Mick Kent. This seven-year-old entire by Amadeus Wolf is raced by Joan Walker. He resumed this campaign at Sandown where he carried 62.5 kilos over an unsuitable distance, he was only beaten by 4.5 lengths but was run off his legs. The stable has been happy with his progress and he returns to racing at a track that he performs well at. He should strip fitter from his first up run and also drops in weight, carrying 59.5 kilos. He has a wide barrier draw to contend with but with even luck in running I expect he can make his presence felt. 

Flemington Preview

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

Race 3 is the BM64 Springtime Handicap over 1420 metres, my ride here is MANNING ROAD who is trained by Rachael Cunningham. I’ve ridden this daughter of Casino Prince once previously for a dominant win at Sandown over 2400 metres. I was really impressed with her performance on the day as she won by an official margin of 2.75 lengths. She then stepped up to an open handicap at Caulfield where she was racing well outside of her grade and was beaten by just over 6 lengths by Steel Prince, who went on to win the Listed 'Andrew Ramsden', giving him automatic entry into this year’s Melbourne Cup. She races here first up and from her four attempts when racing fresh has recorded one win and a third placing. She has raced twice over the distance for one win and that win came at her first up run last preparation, where her effort was very good at Bendigo. She is mare that usually gets back in her races and if the track is allowing horses to run on and the race is run to suit her, I know she has the ability to win first up over this distance even though she is a stayer.

Race 7 is the AAMI Victoria Derby Trial over 1800 metres for three-year-old colts and geldings, my ride here is SERIOUS LIAISON who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This colt by Zoffany runs in the colours of Ultra Racing. He’s had two lifetime starts, finishing fifth on debut at Sandown over 1300 metres and then stepping up in distance where he won his maiden over 1600 at Bendigo and was favourite in the race. He looks to be a horse that has taken natural improvement with racing and is a progressive style of colt. He comes into this with confidence from his last start win and it looks like the step up in distance should suit him. In this very competitive field he will be the horse they all have to beat.

Race 8 is the BM78 Wallace Handicap over 1630 metres, my ride here is NANGAWOOKA who is trained by Matthew Brown. This seven-year-old gelding is by Equiano. I’ve ridden him previously and he is a very consistent galloper with solid ability and even though he is not very big in stature, he tries very hard. He won two starts ago at Sale on soft ground in BM64 grade over 1400 metres, before stepping up the mile at his most recent run. From his 39 starts he has won five races and placed on another 15 occasions. He has drawn to gain an economical run in transit from a favourable, low barrier draw and is a horse that usually races close to the speed. As he is up in grade he drops in weight from his most recent starts and that will also help him as he is not an overly big horse. He is such an honest galloper who has drawn an ideal barrier and he will make his presence felt.