Cranbourne Preview

This evening I’m riding at Cranbourne. The rail is out 3 metres and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 2 is the Highview Accounting & Financial Maiden Plate over 1200 metres, my ride here is VALLAURIS who is trained by James Cummings. This two-year-old colt by Medaglia d’Oro is raced by Godolphin. He is having his first start here and has had several jumpouts in preparation for his debut run. He didn’t wear blinkers in his most recent jumpout but has them applied for this event. While he is still only a young horse having his first start, he will have to improve on his recent efforts to be winning this and will take benefit from being exposed to raceday conditions and pressure.

Race 4 is the MyPunter.com F&M Maiden Plate over 1600 metres, my ride here is WILD BREEZE who is trained by Archie Alexander. This three-year-old filly by Toorak Toff wears the colours of Rosemont Stud. From her four starts, although she is still a maiden, she hasn’t finished further back than fifth. She races here third up this preparation and closed off well at her most recent run over 1500 metres. If she has some luck from an outside barrier draw she can win this. 

Morphettville Previewe

Today I’m riding at Morphettville in South Australia where it’s the last day of their Autumn carnival featuring The Goodwood, which is a Group 1 contest. The rail is out 4 metres from the 1200 – 600 and 6 metres for the remainder, the track is rated in the good range.

Race 2 is the Listed AAMI Centaurea Stakes over 2024 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is REMEMBER THE NAME who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This four-year-old daughter of Lope de Vega (IRE) is raced by Rosemont Stud. From her 22 starts she has won four races and been placed on another seven occasions. She is a very consistent mare who has been racing in good form recently and comes into this a last start winner from seven days ago, where she was dominant when winning at Caulfield over 1800 metres. She races here with the aim of achieving a black type win to enhance her future value in the breeding barn. She is a fit mare and with the confidence from her last start win and recent good form, will make her presence felt.

Race 3 is the Group 3 Dominant Queens Cup over 2500 metres, my ride here is VALAC (IRE) who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This seven-year-old gelding by Dark Angel commenced his racing career in Ireland before being imported to Australia. He is a horse that is easy to find in the run as he has turned from grey to almost white in his colouring and races on-speed out in front. There looks to be a lot of pressure in this race and the quicker they go will help him, as he is a solid galloper that is able to absorb pressure over the extended distance. He has the benefit of carrying half a kilo above the minimum with 54.5 kilos his allocated weight. His last start effort at Flemington saw him gallant in defeat where he was beaten by Observational, and that form reference sets him up well for this race. I’m looking forward to having my first ride on him and he is the horse to beat.

Race 4 is the Group 3 TAB SA Fillies Classic over 2500 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is NORDIC SYMPHONY who is trained by Symon Wilde. She is a daughter of Glass Harmonium, who I rode in Hong Kong before he arrived in Australia to race where he was highly competitive and won the Group 1 Mackinnon Stakes. NORDIC SYMPHONY has come a long way in her first racing preparation. She won two starts ago at Flemington over 1710 metres and last start was beaten by 1.5 lengths in the Group 1 Oaks in Adelaide over 2000m. She steps up again in distance 500 metres from her last start and comes into this with very strong form references. She is a filly that can get hot in the mounting yard pre-race but if she handles the day and step up in distance, she will be winning this.

Race 5 is the Group 3 Robert & Fay Gerard R A Lee Stakes over 1600 metres, my ride here is CALL ME HANDSOME (IRE) who is trained by Peter Gelagotis. This six-year-old gelding by Kodiac commenced his career in Hong Kong and since being imported to Australia has been very consistent and has amassed a good strike rate. I’ve had four rides on him for a win and two placings, with my most recent ride being on him two starts ago at Flemington where he was just beaten, finishing third. I like the fact that he is dropping back in distance as he is a horse that can get quite keen and makes himself vulnerable at extended distances as he is very competitive and can exert too much energy. He is well placed under the set weights and penalties conditions of this race and on his best form will take a lot of beating.

Race 6 is the Group 3 TAB Proud Miss Stakes over 1200 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is MISS VIXEN who is trained by Cindy Alderson. This four-year old mare by Foxwedge is out of the mare Kirvinsky (NZ), who I won a Listed race on at Flemington. MISS VIXEN is a mare that has been racing consistently and is looking to gain black type here to enhance her future value as a breeding proposition. She has had six runs this campaign and hasn’t finished further back than fourth placing and is in very good form. She is a mare that has to be ridden quietly and only has a short but impressive amount of acceleration when asked for an effort. If I can get into a nice rhythm, follow the right horse and if the track is racing evenly and she runs up to her best form, she will be able to achieve the goal of gaining black type status.

Race 7 is the Group 1 The Goodwood over 1200 metres, my ride here is ICONOCLASM who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This four-year-old entire by Toorak Toff is raced by Rosemont Stud and Fern Vale Farm. He has had 16 starts winning eight of those, he is a horse that loves to win and is a real competitor. I rode him first up this preparation last start at Caulfield over the same distance, we expected him to run well and he didn’t disappoint, even though the margin he won by wasn’t great I loved his effort, and he beat Miss Vixen who I ride in race 6 today. I feel he will be suited by the longer straight of the Morphettville track and he will take a lot of beating in this Group 1 feature. He is well weighted in this race as he only carries 1.5 kilos more than the minimum weight and drops 4.5 kilos from his last start. Winning this Group 1 feature would secure his future at stud once he finishes his racing career.

Sandown Preview

Today I’m riding at Sandown on the Hillside circuit. The rail is out 13 metres and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 1 is the Ladbrokes Back Yourself Handicap over 1000 metres for two-year old’s, my ride here is CELESTIAL WARRIOR who is trained by John McArdle. This gelded son of Fighting Sun is raced by the Martin family. He is having his first race start here, as are half of the horses in this field. He has jumped out and trialled nicely in preparation for his debut run and this will be my first time riding him. If he produces the same form as his recent official trial, he will take a lot of beating.

Race 3 is the BM64 MyPunter.com Handicap over 2400 metres, my ride here is BEMBOKA QUEEN who is trained by Robbie Laing. This four-year-old mare by Foxwedge is lightly raced having had 20 starts for a record of two wins and five placings. She comes into this as a very fit mare who is deep into her preparation and has been racing consistently in this grade.

Race 4 is the BM84 Le Pine Funerals Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is CONNERY who is trained by Archie Alexander. This four-year-old gelding by Pierro is raced by Australian Thoroughbred Bloodstock and partners. He is building a good race record having won three times and placing on another five occasions from his 12 starts. He resumed this preparation first up at Warrnambool where he was successful over 1400 metres in BM70 grade. From his five attempts at this distance he hasn’t missed a top three placing, and from his three second up attempts has finished second twice. He is stepping up in grade here but drops to the minimum weight of 54 kilos. With confidence from his last start win and overall good record, he is the horse the others have to beat.

Race 5 is the BM64 Ladbrokes Cash In Handicap over 1800 metres, my ride here is SURETOSHINE (NZ) who is trained by Bevan Laming. This four-year-old mare by Darci Brahma (NZ) runs in the colours of Karreman Racing. She has had three starts since arriving to Australia from New Zealand and has finished first, second and third in those runs. I have ridden her in her two most recent starts at the same course with her most recent run also being over the same distance. She drops two kilos in weight from her most recent run and will have taken good benefit from having a prior run over this distance. She has drawn an ideal barrier and will take a lot of beating in this race and I’m looking forward to riding her again.

Race 6 is the BM70 Long Fine Handicap over 1800 metres for mares, my ride here is PAINT THE TOWN TWO (NZ) who is trained by Bevan Laming. This four-year-old mare by Darci Brahma (NZ) has also been imported from New Zealand and is also owned by Karreman Racing. She profiles in a similar manner to Suretoshine in that she has also had three runs since arriving in Australia, and at her most recent start raced at today’s course and distance. From her three starts on Australian soil she has been very competitive for a record of one win, a third and fourth placing. After watching her replays, she is a mare that looks to race a little bit keen in places, so if we get some luck and I can get her to relax and have a smooth run in transit from an outside barrier, she will have a great amount acceleration and will be hard to beat.

Race 7 is the BM64 The Big Screen Company Handicap over 1300 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is JOAN’S A JETT (NZ) who is trained by Mark Kavanagh. This daughter of Rock ’n’ Pop races in the colours of Trelawney Stud. She had two starts last preparation, winning on debut at Seymour over 1100 metres before stepping up in distance to 1440 metres at her next start at Caulfield, where she finished fourth and less than two lengths from the winner in the same grade as this race. She has drawn a wide barrier for her first up run and looking at her race style from last preparation she looks like a filly that likes to race off the speed. If the track is racing evenly and allowing horses to close off from back in the field, I expect her to make her presence felt, provided she has taken natural improvement from her first preparation.

Caulfield Preview

Today I’m riding at Caulfield. The rail is out 10 metres and the track is rated in the soft range. I’m looking forward to arriving on course and walking the track to see how the recent rain has affected it and how it might race.

Race 1 is the Grunt Standing @ Yulong Handicap over 2406 metres, my ride here is ALFARRIS (FR) who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This imported five-year-old gelding by Shamardal is raced by Shadwell Stud. This is his first preparation racing in Australia and he races third up here. He is stepping up in distance from his most recent runs and has the advantage of a favourable, low barrier draw. He is a horse that seems to settle in the second half of the field before being asked for an effort. He won a race over 1990 metres at Goodwood in the U.K, which would equate to a race on a flat track over 2400 metres in Australia. His last start effort at this track was very good in the Group 3 Easter Cup, with the form out of that race being franked. I’m looking forward to riding him and he will take a lot of beating in this small but competitive field.

Race 2 is the BM78 Ladbrokes Back Yourself Handicap over 1100 metres, my ride here is AKKADIAN who is trained by Matt Cumani. This three-year-old colt by Nicconi takes on the older horses here. I won on him first up this campaign over 1200 metres at Pakenham where he took on and beat the older horses in BM84 grade. He then stepped up to 1400 metres in Listed grade in Adelaide where he was beaten by 4.6 lengths. He races third up here and is dropping back in distance with the blinkers being applied to his head gear for the first time. On his best form, he is one of the main chances.

Race 3 is the Rod Fenwick Handicap over 1600 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is ZOUTORI who is trained by Mathew Ellerton & Simon Zahra. This three-year-old gelding by Zoustar is raced by Pinecliff Racing and partners. He is a talented horse that has shown he was competitive throughout the Spring Carnival at group level last year and since resuming this preparation, has won two from two. I had my first ride on him last start at Flemington where he was dominant over 1400 metres. He is stepping up to the 1600 metres here and if he runs up to his last start effort, is the horse to beat.

Race 5 is the Darren Gauci Handicap over 1100 metres for mares, my ride here is MY BIDDY who is trained by Doug Harrison. It’s terrific to have a race named after Darren Gauci who had so much success as a jockey and at the course where he completed his apprenticeship with Frankie King. My Biddy is a four-year-old mare by Wordsmith. She was previously trained and raced in Tasmania and has been in the care of Doug Harrison in Victoria for her last two runs. I have ridden her in both of her starts on the mainland, finishing second in each of those with her most recent run being at the course and distance. Her former trainer has mentioned that he thought if the ground was shifty she doesn’t always like it, but looking at her form, if she gets a track that she likes her efforts of soft ground have only seen her miss a top three placing once from her six attempts. She has drawn an outside barrier and will carry the minimum weight of 54 kilos here. I was really pleased with the natural improvement she displayed between her two runs in Victoria and she was notably stronger at the finish of her most recent run. With luck in running I expect her to be the horse they all have to beat.

Race 6 is the Listed Vale Redoute's Choice Stakes over 1200 metres for two-year-old’s, my ride here is HILO who is trained by James Cummings. This colt by Lonhro runs in the colours of Godolphin. He is having his first race start and has had three jumpouts in preparation for this. I rode him for the first time on Tuesday and was impressed by his performance and the feel he gave me. He has drawn the inside barrier and if he brings his jumpout form to the races, he will be one of the main chances.

Race 7 is the Le Pine Funerals Handicap over 1100 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is PROPELLE who is trained by Mathew Ellerton & Simon Zahra. This daughter of Smart Missile is raced by Carol Watson and partners. I had my first ride on her last start at the course over 1000 metres where she was very good and produced a dominant winning effort. She steps up slightly in distance here and also carries the top weight of 60 kilos, but is returning to racing against her own age and sex as she beat the older horses in BM78 grade last start. She has drawn the outside barrier but if she has luck in running and the track is racing evenly, I expect her to be winning this.

Race 8 is the Spicer Thoroughbreds Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is ORDER OF COMMAND who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This four-year-old gelding by Squamosa is a consistent galloper who from his 13 starts has a record of four wins and five placings. He is a horse that has raced with great success over the straight course at Flemington and this will be his first time racing around the Caulfield circuit. He races here second up and had the blinkers applied for his first up run. He also has the benefit of the inside barrier and minimum weight and looks well placed to win here.

Race 9 is the BM84 JRA Handicap over 1800 metres for mares, my ride here is WINKELMANN (NZ) who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This five-year-old daughter of Rip Van Winkle runs in the Trelawney Stud colours. I’ve ridden her in her two runs this campaign. We won first up over 1600 metres at Moonee Valley and at her most recent start at Flemington in the same grade, she raced on-speed and was very keen with the pressure of the race setting it up for horses to come from off the speed. Her effort was credible given that she worked the whole race. If I can have a smoother and softer run in transit she will take a lot of running down. 

Sandown Preview

Today I’m riding at Sandown on the Hillside circuit. The rail is out 8 metres and the track is rated in the soft range after overnight rain. I’m looking forward to walking the track to see how it may race throughout the day.

Race 1 is the BM64 Ladbrokes Back Yourself Handicap over 1400 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is ASGARD MASSIF who is trained by John Sadler. This gelding by Fastnet Rock out of the mare Jolie’s Shinju, is raced by Dr Tan. He is building a good record as from his eight starts has a record of two wins and two placings. He comes into this fourth up this preparation and is dropping back in grade as he competed in a handicap over the same distance at his most recent start. He is a horse that likes to race close to the speed and he looks well placed in this competitive race and will take a lot of beating.

Race 2 is the BM64 Long Fine Handicap over 1500 metres, my ride here is SONAREE who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This five-year-old gelding by So You Think (NZ) is lightly raced having had 11 starts with a record of five placings, including two wins. He has had three runs this campaign, winning second up at the same distance before stepping up to the mile where I rode him under lights at Pakenham, finishing second. He is a horse that can be somewhat difficult to ride at times as he can over-race and want to hang. I seemed to get along well with him last start and that will help me understand him further for this race. He is a horse that likes to race on-speed and if he races kindly for me again and holds his good form, he will be hard to beat.

Race 3 is the BM70 Blue Star Print Handicap over 1000 metres, my ride here is REALLY SWISH who is trained by Leon & Troy Corstens. This three-year-old colt by Real Saga races first up here and even though he hasn’t won first up previously from his three attempts, he has run really well and competed against Group level horses. He ran in Listed grade in the Spring in the Gothic Stakes where he finished fifth over 1400 metres, before going on to win his maiden three starts later at this track over 1600 metres. He has had two jumpouts in preparation for his return to racing and I’m looking forward to riding him again, as I owe him and the connections some good luck after having a luckless run in transit when I rode him at the end of his last campaign. If he runs up to his best form, he can win this.

Race 5 is the BM70 The Big Screen Company Handicap over 1500 metres, my ride here is SMART STILETTO who is trained by Levi Kavanagh. This five-year-old mare by Smart Missile races here fourth up this preparation. She has been in good form this campaign and hasn’t missed a top three placing from her three runs. She has drawn to gain an economical run in transit from the inside barrier and looks to be one of the main chances in this.

Race 6 is the BM84 Clanbrooke Racing Handicap over 1800 metres, my ride here is VOW AND DECLARE who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This three-year-old gelding is by Declaration Of War. I rode him in his first two starts over 1500 and 1600 metres respectively, he then kept stepping up in distance and went on to win his last two runs at the end of that campaign, with one of those being at Listed grade. He races here second up off the back of a good first up effort at Flemington where he finished third. He is building a very good record and from his six starts has only missed a top three placing once, which was on debut where he raced on rain affected ground and didn’t have clear galloping room. The spacious track will help him here as will the step up in distance. He is the class galloper in this small field and will be hard to beat.

Race 7 is the BM70 Ladbrokes Odds Boost Handicap over 2400 metres, my ride here is ETHERIDGE who is trained by John Thompson. This three-year-old filly by Roman Emperor (NZ) has had seven starts for a record of two wins and two placings. This will be her first start the Melbourne way of going and it will also be her first attempt over the distance. She is taking on the older horses here and looks to be a filly with a good amount of upside. I’m looking forward to having my first ride on her and this race will provide a good assessment of where she heads to next, with Group races in Adelaide and Brisbane both possibilities if she runs well.

Race 8 is the BM70 Ladbrokes Cash In Handicap over 1000 metres, my ride here is SURPRISE HERO who is trained by Cheryl Weller. This six-year-old mare is by Kaphero. She is lightly raced for a six-year-old having had 19 starts and has a record of four wins and three placings. She races here second up, her first up effort at the course and distance was very good where she closed off well to finish fourth. She should be fitter for her first up run and providing the track is racing evenly, allowing horses to make ground from back in the field, she can make her presence felt.

Morphettville Preview

Today I’m riding at Morphettville in South Australia where it’s the first meeting of their carnival featuring two Group 1 races. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated in the soft range after overnight rain.

Race 2 is the Triple M Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is A SHIN ROOK (JPN) who is trained by Anthony Freedman. This five-year-old gelding by Heart’s Cry (JPN) was imported from Japan and races in the colours of Ozzie Kheir. From his 19 career starts he has finished in the top three on 11 occasions, including four wins. He races here fourth up this preparation and stays at the same distance he won over last start. He goes up in grade and will carry only 1.5 kilos above the minimum. He has drawn an inside barrier in a small field and is a horse that usually settles near last in running. If he can produce his best form and the track is racing evenly, he will be too good for these.

Race 3 is the Group 3 D C McKay Stakes over 1100 metres, my ride here is PETRELLE who is trained by Archie Alexander. This four year old mare by Fastnet Rock is raced by Austin Miller and partners. She is a lightly raced mare who has had five starts for a record of three wins and a second placing, and the only time she has missed a top two placing was at the end of her last preparation where she raced in Group 3 company at Flemington and pulled up lame. She commenced this preparation off in good style with a win at Geelong where she carried 59.5 kilos in a BM70 over 1100 metres. She now steps up in grade and drops to the minimum weight of 55 kilos. This is a small but competitive field of gallopers and I feel she can make her presence felt at this level.

Race 4 is the BM90 TAB Handicap over 2000 metres, my ride here is THUNDER CLOUD who is trained by Ciaron Maher & David Eustace. This five year old gelding by Manhattan Rain is raced by Manfred Krauser and partners. This will be my third ride on him, I rode him when he raced second up this preparation at Flemington where we won the race, defeating Antah, who has run very well and won in his next two starts. I rode Thunder Cloud at his next start over this distance where he was beaten by less than two lengths. He has had two more runs over this distance at Mornington and Caulfield and had the blinkers added to his head gear at his most recent run. He has drawn a wide barrier and if we have luck from the draw and he produces his best form, he can win this.

Race 5 is the Group 2 Hughes Limousines Queen Of The South Stakes over 1600 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is MUSIC BAY who is trained by Phillip Stokes. This three year old daughter of Choisir is raced by Dr A Jackson and partners. Last preparation she competed at the highest level throughout the Spring and was tested at Group 1 company. Since resuming this year, she hasn’t finished further back than fourth placing and won two starts ago. She competed over 1600 metres last start and takes on the older mares here where she will carry 53 kilos under the set weights and penalty conditions of the race. She has drawn a favourable barrier and will gain an economical run in transit and will take a lot of beating in this.

Race 6 is the Group 1 Schweppes Oaks over 2000 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is COLLECTABLE who is trained by Robbie Griffiths. This race is registered as the Australasian Oaks and it’s the first Group 1 race that I won. COLLECTABLE is a daughter of Sebring that is raced by Darren Dance of Australian Thoroughbred Bloodstock. She races here third up this preparation and commenced her campaign off with a win first up at Sale, winning her maiden over 1400 metres. I rode her at her most recent start over 1600 metres at Caulfield where she finished third and was less than three lengths behind the favourite for today’s race, Princess Jenni (NZ). We have unfortunately drawn an outside barrier but I feel the soft track conditions and step up in distance will be to my advantage. The form around Collectable’s run in the Group 3 Ethereal Stakes where she finished fourth behind Verry Elleegant (NZ) is strong and if we have luck from the outside draw, she can figure in the finish.

Race 7 is the Group 1 TAB Classic over 1200 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is JAMAICAN RAIN who is trained by Richard Laming. This six year old mare by Manhattan Rain is lightly raced having had 14 starts for a record of nine placings, including seven wins. She won first up this preparation and has won four from five when racing fresh. She had one start last campaign where I rode her in a Group 3 race at Caulfield, she had no luck in running but ran very well after being caught out wide for the whole race. She then didn’t race for some 5 months and resumed winning the Group 3 Mannerism Stakes over 1400 metres at Caulfield. She then contested the Group 1 Coolmore at Rosehill where it was reported she pulled up lame and since then she has been freshened up and targeted for this race. I rode her in a recent official trial at Cranbourne in preparation for this race and felt she went extremely well. She has drawn a favourable barrier and the soft track conditions will further enhance her chances. She is a horse that races on-speed and will take a lot of beating in this year’s edition.

Race 8 is the Group 2 TAB Euclase Stakes over 1200 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is BEHEMOTH who is trained by David Jolly. This gelding by All Too Hard runs in the Grand Syndicate colours. He is a lightly raced horse that is building a very good record, from his five starts he has a record of four placings, including two wins and has only missed a top three placing once, when he finished fifth on debut as a two-year-old. I had my first ride on him at Moonee Valley and although it was a small field it had depth and he was dominant, winning by over three lengths. He gave me the feel of a horse with a good amount of talent that was still very raw. I’m looking forward to having my second ride on him here today where he races second up this campaign. His first up effort was at Listed grade and he was narrowly beaten by Humma Humma. He has drawn a wide barrier but if the track is racing evenly and giving all horses their chance, he can win this.

Caulfield Preview

Today I’m riding at Caulfield where it’s the VOBIS Gold Raceday featuring several races with big prizemoney on offer that are restricted to horses eligible and paid up for the VOBIS scheme. The rail is out 5 metres and the track is rated in the good range. I’m looking forward to walking the track to see how it has recovered from last week and how it may race given the weather conditions we have had this week.

Race 1 is the BM78 Keno Classic Handicap over 1000 metres, my ride here is PROPELLE who is trained by Mathew Ellerton & Simon Zahra. This three-year old daughter of Smart Missile is raced by Carol Watson and partners. She is lightly raced and from her seven lifetime starts has a record of two wins and two placings, all at this distance. She is taking on the older horses here and has the advantage of carrying the minimum weight of 54 kilos. She has drawn a wide barrier in a race where there looks to be a lot of speed on paper, and if she has some luck in running will be one of the main chances and be very competitive.

Race 2 is the BM84 Keno Fun Money Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is BEL SONIC who is trained by Jason Warren. This four-year-old gelding by Bel Esprit is raced by Darren Thomas of Seymour Bloodstock and partners. He is a consistent galloper who from his 17 starts has recorded 10 placings, including four wins. He is a horse that tends to settle off the speed in his races and always needs luck. He is stepping up in distance from his most recent runs and at the start of the year contested the Magic Millions Cup over the 1400, where he came from third last to run home strongly and was beaten by less than two lengths. He is now deep into his preparation but has had his races spaced out. If the track is racing evenly and allowing horses to make ground from back in the field, I expect he can make his presence felt.

Race 4 is the Spendthrift Australia VOBIS 3YO Sires over 1600 metres, my ride here is CANDESCENCE who is trained by Mathew Ellerton & Simon Zahra. This gelding by Canford Cliffs runs in the colours of Contract Racing. He has had eight starts for a record of two wins and three placings. He comes into this with confidence from his last start win at Mornington which was over 1500 metres in BM64 grade, and returns to competing against his own age group here. He will be given every chance from an inside barrier to gain an economical run in transit and on his best form, will be one of the main chances.

Race 5 is the Avenel Equine Hospital VOBIS Gold Dash over 1100 metres for three-year old’s, my ride here is THINE IS THE POWER who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This filly by Street Boss is raced by Hall Thoroughbred and partners. She has been a model of consistency throughout her career as from her 10 starts has only missed a top three placing on two occasions. I have ridden her in her last two starts, finishing second and third respectively. Her last start was seven days ago where she competed at the course and distance and was very good in her effort to finish third. Importantly today, she has drawn an inside barrier compared to her last two starts where she has drawn wide, having to give up ground throughout the early stages, before closing the races off strongly. She will have all the favours from the barrier draw today and if she handles racing on the seven day back up, which she has never been asked to do in the past, then she can win this.

Race 6 is the Ladbrokes Showdown over 1200 metres for two-year old’s, my ride here is GROOT who is trained by Ciaron Maher & David Eustace. This is the inaugural running of this race and it’s the feature race of the day. GROOT is a colt by Fighting Sun that races in the colours of Balius Farm. He has had two starts, first up he finished less than a length from the winner in the Group 3 Blue Diamond Prelude at this track. He then had a space between his next run, which was at Bendigo over 1000 metres in the VOBIS Gold Rush in preparation for this assignment. He drew an outside barrier in that race and closed the race off nicely to finish third. I expect he will have taken natural improvement from his last start and with luck in running will be one of the main chances in this and will be hard to hold out.

Race 7 is the Hygain VOBIS Gold Heath over 2000 metres, my ride here is ADMIRAL’S JOKER who is trained by Kylie Vella. This six-year-old gelding by Bel Esprit is raced by the Butler family. He is lightly raced for his age having had only eight starts for a record of two wins and three placings. I have ridden him in his last two starts and was successful on him two starts ago at Geelong in BM64 grade where he was dominant over 1700 metres. He then stepped up in distance and grade to BM84 at Sandown, where I felt that he didn’t handle the softer track conditions on the day. He is stepping up to the 2000 metres for the first time and has drawn a slightly wide barrier in a small field. He will have visors added to his head gear for the first time and on his best form can be very competitive.

Race 8 is the IRT VOBIS Gold Mile over 1600 metres for four-year-old’s and upwards, my ride here is WAGING WAR who is trained by Leon Macdonald & Andrew Gluyas. He’s a five-year-old gelding by Rebel Raider that races in Harry Perks Australian flag colours. He races here third up and has won when racing third up previously. He also ran really well in the 2018 edition of the Group 1 Toorak Handicap at this course and distance where he was less than four lengths from the winner. He will start from a favourable barrier and is one of the main chances in this.

Race 9 is the Newmarket Grandwest VOBIS Gold Sprint over 1200 metres, my ride here is ICONOCLASM who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This four-year-old entire by Toorak Toff runs in the Rosemont Stud colours. This horse has a great winning record as from his 15 starts has recorded 7 wins and placed on two other occasions. I have ridden him once last preparation where he contested the Group 1 Railway Stakes over 1600 metres in Perth. He races here first up for the new stable and from his two starts when racing fresh has placed once. He has had four attempts at this distance for one placing and from his two starts at the course, has won once. I have ridden him recently in two jumpouts in preparation for his return to racing and he is going extremely well. He won’t have the early speed to take up a forward position over this distance but he has shown me enough acceleration in his jumpouts which gives me confidence going into this sprint race. He is a classy horse and if the track is racing evenly and he is able to make ground, he can be very competitive.

Flemington Preview

Today I’m riding at Flemington. The rail is out 8 metres and the track is rated in the good range.

This is a very special day for Australians where we remember the sacrifices of past and present service men and women and their families. All horses with the number 1 saddle cloth wear the ANZAC Day colours to show respect and the last post will be read in the mounting yard. Most of the races today are named in remembrance of people and places and we remember them.

Race 2 is the Beersheba Sprint over 1000 metres, my ride here is BANDIPUR who is trained by James Cummings. This four-year-old gelding by Commands is raced by Godolphin. He has an affinity with this track and distance as from his four starts has only missed a top three placing once. He races here fourth up this campaign and is dropping back in distance from his last start victory at Caulfield which was over 1200 metres. He will start from a middle barrier draw and carries 56.5 kilos, which is only 2.5 kilos above the minimum weight. He is racing in very good form and with a consistent record at the distance, is the horse to beat.

Race 3 is the Listed ANZAC Day Stakes over 1400 metres for two-year old’s, my ride here is CHAILLOT who is trained by Archie Alexander. This daughter of Testa Rossa has had one lifetime start, where she was successful on soft ground at Ballarat over 1200 metres on April 9^th. She came from second last in the field and showed a good amount of acceleration to win impressively. She is stepping up in distance and grade and will start from barrier one. If she can produce the same effort as last start, she will give the favourite and top weight a run for his money. She also has the benefit of a 5 kilos weight advantage in her favour against the favourite.

Race 4 is the Flt Lt Peter Armytage Handicap over 1710 metres for three-year old’s, my ride here is ANALYTICA (NZ) who is trained by Patrick Payne. This gelding by Shocking runs in the colours of Price Bloodstock. He is a lightly raced, progressive galloper that has displayed a good amount of natural talent in his three runs to date, with a record of two wins and a third placing. I rode him two starts ago at Sandown where he finished third over 1400 metres, so have a good understanding of him. He comes into this with confidence from his last start victory over 1600 metres and is stepping up slightly in distance. If we have some luck from a slightly awkward barrier draw, he will take a lot of beating back in three-year-old grade.

Race 5 is the Auckland Racing Club Trophy over 1400 metres for three year old’s, my ride here is ZOUTORI who is trained by Mathew Ellerton & Simon Zahra. This gelding by Zoustar is raced by Pinecliff Racing and partners. From his nine career runs he has won two and been placed on three occasions. After winning his maiden first up last preparation he competed at group and listed level throughout the Spring before being sent for a spell. He commenced this campaign with a dominant first up win in BM70 grade at Pakenham over 1200 metres, and steps up to the 1400 here. He has drawn an ideal barrier and looks the horse to beat based on his dominant effort first up and his good form throughout the Spring.

Race 6 is the Listed VRC St Leger over 2800 metres for three-year old’s, my ride here is STARS OF CARRUM who is trained by Robbie Laing. This colt by Fiorente will carry the ANZAC Day colours, as he is the top weight. He has competed in group and listed grade for the majority of his career and his last start was in the Group 1 ATC Derby over 2400 metres on soft ground. He is also a Group 2 winner and finished second in the Victorian Derby in the Spring. He returns to a firmer surface here which he will appreciate and is also dropping back significantly in grade from his last start. If he runs up to his best form, he will be winning this.

Race 7 is The Les Carlyon over 1710 metres, my ride here is CALL ME HANDSOME (IRE) who is trained by Peter Gelagotis. Les Carlyon was a journalist and sportswriter for many years, with one of his biggest loves being horse racing, he unfortunately passed away this year and it’s great to see the VRC honour and remember him on such a special day with a race named after him. CALL ME HANDSOME is a six-year-old gelding by Kodiac who started his racing career off in Hong Kong before being imported to Australia. He is tough and consistent gelding, who from his 22 starts has only been out of the top three placings on five occasions. He has unfortunately drawn a wide barrier but if he doesn’t have to work too hard from the draw and he relaxes nicely for me, he will take a lot of running down.

Race 8 is the BM84 Nancy Wake Handicap over 1600 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is WINKELMANN (NZ) who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This five-year-old mare is by Rip Van Winkle and races in the colours of Trelawney Stud. She has terrific form when racing early in her campaign, and I was successful on her first up this preparation over the same distance at Moonee Valley in F&M BM78 grade. She is stepping up in grade here and will carry 1 kilo above the minimum. I also like the fact that she comes into this with almost six weeks between runs, so she should be nice and fresh and able to run up to her best form. She will start from a favourable, inside barrier and is a horse that like to race close to the speed. If she can produce her best form she will take a lot of beating in this and I’m looking forward to seeing how she presents pre-race.

Sandown Preview

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

Race 1 is the Ladbrokes Handicap over 1000 metres for two-year old’s, my ride here is KATONA who is trained by James Cummings. This colt by Lonhro is raced by Godolphin, his dam, Aerobatics, was a multiple group winner. I have ridden him in a recent jumpout in preparation for his debut run, he showed nice speed from the barriers and is a big strong horse. He did get a bit colty prior to his jumpout but if the occasion doesn’t get the better of him and he brings his jumpout form to the races today, he will make his presence felt.

Race 4 is the BM64 Walk For Phil Handicap over 1800 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is SURETOSHINE (NZ) who is trained by Bevan Laming. This four-year-old mare by Darci Brahma has had two runs in Australia and prior to that had three runs in New Zealand. She won her first start on Australian soil in good fashion at Cranbourne over 1600 metres in maiden grade. At her most recent start she finished second when I rode her at this course over 1600 metres in BM70 grade. She drops in grade and is stepping up in distance from her most recent start here and has the benefit of a middle barrier draw. If she has improved from last start or produces that same form, she will be winning this. She is lightly raced and is a mare with plenty of upside going forward.

Race 5 is the BM64 Spicer Thoroughbreds Handicap over 1300 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is FABRIC (NZ) who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This daughter of Ocean Park (NZ) runs in the colours of Waikato Stud. I did a lot of work on her throughout the early stages of her education and had my first race ride on her last start, which was her first start of her second preparation. She drew the outside barrier over 1321 metres and after settling at the back of the field, won with authority and was dominant with her effort to the line. I expect she will have taken natural improvement between her first and second runs and she come’s into this some 4 weeks between runs. This is a highly competitive field but she should take a lot of beating in this.

Race 6 is the BM70 The Big Screen Company Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is GOOD THERAPY who is trained by Clinton McDonald. This five-year-old gelding by Starcraft has been a consistent galloper throughout his career, from his 24 starts he has won or placed in 11 of those, including four wins. He has been in good form this preparation and is a horse that has won when ridden on-speed and for most of his recent races has been ridden off speed, running extremely well when he has luck. I think the outside barrier draw will suit him and if the track is racing evenly, he will take a lot of beating.

Race 8 is the BM70 Le Pine Funerals Handicap over 1800 metres, my ride here is HULME (NZ) who is trained by Mick Price. This four-year-old gelding by Power (GB) races here third up for the preparation and has been increasing in distance at each of his starts. He has a change to his head gear here with the blinkers being removed. If he finds his three-year-old form he will make his presence felt. 

Caulfield Preview

Today I’m riding at Caulfield. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 1 is the BM90 Noel Rundle Handicap over 1100 metres for mares, my ride here is MY BIDDY who is trained by Doug Harrison. This four year old daughter of Wordsmith started her racing career off in Tasmania before being transferred to her new, Victorian based trainer prior to her last run. I rode her in that run at Sandown over 1200 metres and she was narrowly beaten by Miss Vixen.My Biddyled the field and showed nice acceleration however, I felt that assessing her recovery that she would take natural fitness benefit from that run. She drops back slightly in distance here and also has the benefit of carrying the minimum weight of 54 kilos. She has drawn a wide barrier and if she doesn’t have to do too much work from the draw, she will make her presence felt.

Race 4 is the Jack Elliott Handicap over 1600 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is COLLECTABLE who is trained by Robbie Griffiths. This daughter of Sebring is raced by Australian Thoroughbred Bloodstock and partners. I rode her on debut and throughout her first preparation and after her fourth placing in the Group 3 Ethereal Stakes at the course, she was in the market for the VRC Oaks. After her unplaced Oaks run she was turned out for a spell and commenced this campaign with a strong maiden win first up at Sale over 1400 metres on soft ground. The horse she beat in that race, Part Time Lover, won by 6 lengths at Geelong on Tuesday, franking the form. COLLECTABLE is stepping up in distance and grade but drops to the minimum weight of 54 kilos. With confidence from her last start win and luck in running, she will be one of the main chances.

Race 5 is the Robert Taranto Handicap over 1200 metres for three-year old’s, my ride here is POISED TO STRIKE who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This gelding by Akeed Mofeed (GB) is raced by Goldin Farms. I won on him first up this preparation in BM70 grade at Flemington over the same distance as this race, and he has contested stakes races for his last 3 runs. I rode him in Sydney last start in the Listed Darby Munro on heavy ground and he ran well, finishing fourth. He now returns to Melbourne and will appreciate racing on the firmer surface. He has drawn ideally to gain an economical run in transit and will take a lot of beating in this.

Race 6 is the Geoff Murphy Handicap over 1100 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is THINE IS THE POWER who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This daughter of Street Boss (USA) runs in the colours of Hall Thoroughbred’s. She is lightly raced and is building a progressive record, from her nine starts she has won or placed in seven of those, only missing a top three placing twice. I had my first ride on her last start at Flemington and loved the way she closed off from back in the field to finish second. She has unfortunately drawn an outside barrier, but if the track is racing evenly and she can produce the same run as last start, she can win this.

Race 7 is the Group 3 Ladbrokes Victoria Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is FASTNET TEMPEST (IRE) who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This six year old gelding by Fastnet Rock is raced by O T I Racing and partners. I have ridden him previously and have won and placed on him at the course and distance. I also rode him in last year’s Sale Cup where he hit the lead and lost his concentration when he spotted the big screen and finished second. He races here third up this preparation and ran well last start. I feel if I can follow the favourite in the race and have a good run in transit, on his best form, he can win this.

Race 8 is the Group 3 Le Pine Funerals Easter Cup over 2000 metres, my ride here is PLEIN CIEL (GER) who is trained by Anthony Freedman. This six year old gelding by Mamool (IRE) is raced by Australian Bloodstock and partners. From his 15 runs he has only missed a top three placing three times and is a consistent performer, winning six races. He races here fourth up this campaign and was narrowly defeated seven days ago over 1600 metres at this course. He steps up to the 2000 metres and this is a distance where he finished second at his only attempt. His form at the course is very good, from his four starts at the track he has won three and finished third on the other occasion. He starts from an inside barrier and has the advantage of carrying the minimum weight, dropping 3.5 kilos from his last start. If he handles racing on the seven day turn around, he is clearly the horse to beat.

Race 9 is the Ladbrokes Odds Boost Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is ADDICTIVE NATURE who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This four year old entire by Savabeel is raced by Sean Buckley and Ozzie Kheir and wears the Ultra Racing colours. He hasn’t raced since October last year so is returning from a long layoff, but I have ridden him in a recent official trial in preparation for his first up run. I have been pleased with the feel he has given me in his recent work and I’m looking forward to seeing him pre-race. He is well treated under the handicap conditions of this race as he carries the minimum weight and also has the benefit of an inside barrier draw. It is interesting to note, that in his past five runs he has competed in Group and Listed company, so he is down significantly in grade here from those runs. On his best form he will be beating these easily.

Pakenham Preview​

This evening I’m riding at Racing.com Park, Pakenham, for the night meeting. The rail is out 2 metres from the 1600 – 400m and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 5 is the Hatzis Charters Class 1 Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is DALSWINTON who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This three-year-old gelding by Denman runs in the famous colours of long-time stable supporters Devitt and Gordon. DALSWINTON has had nine starts, winning once and placing on five other occasions. He races here third up this campaign and he won his maiden third up last preparation over the same distance of this race. He has drawn a wide barrier and it will be interesting to see what my instructions are from the draw, as we will have a good understanding of how the track is playing by this race. He comes into this with strong form references and looks to be one of the main chances.

Race 8 is the Sportsbet – The Least You Can Do BM64 Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is SONAREE who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This five-year-old gelding by So You Think wears the same colours as JACQUINOT BAY, which is fitting as in seven days’ time we remember and honour the Anzacs. SONAREE is lightly raced for his age having had only 10 starts, finishing in the top two placings on four occasions, including two wins. He won impressively last start at Geelong and he steps up slightly in distance here. He led the field and made all the running last start in what was a slowly run race, but I expect there may be more pressure in this event. He comes into this third up this campaign and with confidence from his last start victory, should take a lot of beating. 

Bendigo Preview

Today I’m riding at Bendigo. The rail is out 5 metres and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 1 is The Bendigo Cleaning Company 2YO Fillies Maiden Plate over 1100 metres, my ride here is SINGING APPROACH who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This daughter of Dawn Approach has had two official trials and I have ridden her in a recent jumpout at Flemington in preparation for her debut run. She gave me a nice feel in her jumpout where she came from off the speed and made ground nicely when asked for an effort. She will need some luck from a wide barrier but if she can produce her trial form on raceday, she will be very competitive.

Race 4 is The Big Screen Company Maiden Plate over 2200 metres, my ride here is SUNBELT who is trained by Matt Cumani. This three year old gelding by Helmet is lightly raced having had three runs in his career and although he is still a maiden, he has been progressing well as he has been stepping up in distance, racing over 1600 metres last start where he finished fifth and was less than 1.5 lengths from the winner, closing the race off really well. The step up in distance to 2200 metres should suit him based on his recent racing pattern and although I haven’t spoken to connections yet, I assume he will be ridden off the speed from a wide barrier. If the track is racing evenly and the race is run to suit him at a solid tempo, I expect he can be figuring in the finish as he looks to break his maiden status. 

Randwick Preview

Today I’m riding at Randwick where it’s the second and final day of The Championships. It’s also the final start for Winx who runs in the Queen Elizabeth before retiring to stud. The rail is out 3 metres and the track is rated a soft 5. I’m looking forward to walking the track to see how it may play after racing on rain affected ground last week and hope with good weather, the track continues to improve throughout the day.

Race 2 is the Listed THE AGENCY SOUTH PACIFIC CLASSIC over 1400 metres for three year old’s, my ride here is FINAL AWARD who is trained by Mark Newnham. This gelding by Smart Missile is raced by Gooree Stud. He has had four starts to date for a record of two wins, a third placing and fourth placing. He comes into this off the back of a strong winning performance in the Canberra Guineas at Listed grade over the same distance. He carries the minimum weight of 53 kilos here, as does that majority of the field and the improving track conditions will be in his favour, as he hasn’t been exposed to anything worse than a good 4 surface. He will start from an inside barrier and after watching his replays he looks to be a big horse that needs riding to take up a position and he usually settles in the second half of the field. He will have an economical run in transit and if the field goes at a strong tempo and he gains clear galloping room over the final stages, I expect him to be very strong to the line and be one of the main contenders.

Race 5 is the Group 2 ARROWFIELD 3YO SPRINT over 1200 metres for three year old’s, my ride here is SPANISH WHISPER who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This three year old filly by Lope de Vega is raced by Darren Thomas of Seymour Bloodstock and partners. She is backing up after last week where she ran extremely well in the Group 3 PJ Bell, which is the race I won on Multaja. Her two runs this campaign have seen her finish second in the Group 3 Typhoon Tracy over 1200 metres when racing first up, she then won the Group 2 Kewney at Flemington over 1400 metres, where she beat me on Victory Kingdom. It shows that she has a good amount of stamina and she has been racing very well in this grade. She has obviously come through last weeks’ run in good shape to be backing up in this strong race for three-year old’s. As she is a filly she has the 2 kilo weight advantage and will carry 54.5 kgs. If we have some luck from barrier 8 I expect she can be one of the main chances.

Race 7 is the Group 1 LONGINES QUEEN ELIZABETH STAKES where the world will be watching WINX in her final race start. Good luck to her connections and congratulations to Chris Waller and his team for their outstanding efforts in managing her career.

Race 8 is the Group 1 SCHWEPPES SYDNEY CUP over 3200 metres run under handicap conditions, my ride here is YOGI who is trained by Ciaron Maher & David Eustace. This six year old gelding by Raise the Flag is raced by Darren Dance of Australian Thoroughbred Bloodstock and partners. He is a consistent galloper who I won the Listed Sandown Cup on over this distance at the end of his last preparation. His three runs this campaign for the new stable have seen him win first up at Caulfield over 1800 metres, before running extremely well in the G1 Australian Cup at Flemington over 2000 metres. He then had his first start in Sydney in the G1 Tancred where he didn’t handle the heavy track conditions, but once we found firmer footing in the straight – towards the outside rail, he was really impressive and closed the race off strongly to finish fifth. He returns to handicap conditions and will carry 53 kilos here. He has drawn a wide barrier but is a horse that gets back in his races anyway. If the track is racing evenly and allowing horses to finish off and make ground, with luck in running he can win this.

Race 9 is the Group 1 COOLMORE LEGACY STAKES over 1600 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is AMPHITRITE who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This three-year-old filly by Sebring is raced by Flying Start Syndications and partners. She has had 12 starts, winning five of those and is a Group 1 winner. She commenced this preparation off for her new trainers with a win in the Group 3 Vanity Stakes with a dominant effort over Verry Elleegant, who went on to win the Group 1 Vinery Stud Stakes two weeks ago. AMPHITRITE’S next two runs were very good but I felt that she didn’t give me the same level of acceleration that she has done previously and she comes into this after a solid effort under W.F.A Conditions in the All Star Mile, where she was beaten by just over 3 lengths. She has been racing very well and if she finds her best form and can reproduce her terrific acceleration, she can win this. This will be her first start racing the Sydney way of going so I will be mindful of that, but she is very professional and I’m really looking forward to seeing how she presents pre-race as it would be great to win another Group 1 race on her.

Race 10 is the Group 2 TAB SAPPHIRE STAKES over 1200 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is ELLICAZOOM who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This five year old mare by Testa Rossa is raced by Kitchwin Hills. I’ve ridden her twice, the first being when she was beaten by less than 2 lengths in the Magic Millions F&M race in January and again at her most recent start when she finished third in the Group 1 William Reid Stakes at Moonee Valley over 1200 metres. She stays at the same distance here and is a mare that is effective on all track surfaces. She has drawn a wide barrier and by this race we will have an understanding of how the track is racing as she is a horse that races with a get back, run on style. If the track is racing evenly and we have some luck, on her best form she will be one of the main chances.

Pakenham Preview

This evening I’m riding at Racing.com park, Pakenham. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated in the soft range.

Race 2 is the Maiden Plate over 1400 metres, my ride here is HIGH HOPES who is trained by Rachael Cunningham. This three year old gelding by King of Prussia has had one start where he finished second on debut over 1100 metres at Sale on soft ground. He now steps up in distance to the 1400 here, which looks like it should suit him as he closed the race off nicely last start. This looks like a winnable race for him and he will take a lot of beating.

Race 4 is the OBrien Foundation C, G & E BM64 Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is BACKFILL who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This three-year-old gelding by Sebring has had eight starts for a record of one win and two third placings. He won his maiden three starts ago over this distance and has competed at the same course and distance as this race for his past two starts, finishing third on both occasions. He will have every favour from an inside barrier to continue his consistent form in this small but competitive field and can make his presence felt.

Race 5 is the Grove Hire BM84 Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is AKKADIAN who is trained by Matt Cumani. This three year old colt by Nicconi has had 13 starts for a record of two wins and two placings. He resumes his preparation first up here from a spell after finishing his last campaign in good form. He was able to win over 1400 metres three starts ago at this course, before finishing second to Superhard at Bendigo, and then finished fourth in the Country Cup at Flemington over 1600 metres, which I won on Cochada. AKKADIAN has taken on the older horses in his last few runs and he does the same again here in BM84 grade. He has good form references from last preparation and has winning form when racing fresh. He has the minimum weight of 55 kilos and from a favourable barrier draw, I expect him to be one of the main chances.

Race 7 is the Stellice Building Group Class 1 Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is MAIGRET who is trained by Mitchell Freedman. This three year old filly by Reset runs in the Galadi Syndicate colours. She is lightly raced having had six starts for a win and a third placing. After winning her maiden last preparation over 1800 metres she then contested the Geelong Classic at Listed grade before being spelled. She resumed this preparation with a strong first up effort where she was beaten by less than a length at Ballarat over 1400 metres and finished third. She steps up in distance here and should gain an economical run in transit from an inside barrier. I expect her to be hard to beat in this competitive race.

Sandown Preview

Today I’m riding at Sandown. The rail is in the true position on the Hillside circuit and the track is rated in the soft range.

Race 1 is the Ladbrokes Handicap over 1000 metres for two year old fillies, my ride here is LUNASNIT who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This daughter of Star Witness is having her first race start today and has had an official trial at Cranbourne last year. I’m looking forward to riding her and seeing how she handles being exposed to the raceday conditions and pressure. The majority of the field is made up of fillies having their first runs and it will be interesting to see how my filly measures up.

Race 2 is the Clanbrooke Racing Handicap over 1400 metres for two year olds, my ride here is WALKING FLYING (NZ) who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. I rode this filly by Tavistock in her debut run at the same venue on the Lakeside circuit and she is stepping up slightly in distance for her second start here today. The horse that beat us on debut by almost 6 lengths also contests this race and we have a 2 kilos weight swing in our favour from that race. I was pleased with the effort from Walking Flying last start, she settled last and closed the race off strongly to finish fourth and was only a 0.3 length from second placing. She has again drawn a wide barrier and I expect she will be ridden in the same manner and allowed to settle back and finish the race off. The favourite in this race was very impressive on debut and we would have to turn the tables on him, but I think my filly is filly with a lot of upside and has a good future as she steps up in distance.

Race 3 is the BM64 Spicer Thoroughbreds Handicap over 1300 metres, my ride here is SEARCH SQUAD (NZ) who is trained by Doug Harrison. This eight year old gelding by Falkirk has been a consistent performer throughout his career and has a record of 67 starts for 6 wins and 18 placings. I won on him last start at Sandown on the Lakeside circuit over the same distance and he comes into this with confidence from that win, as it was almost two years between wins for him. He again will start from an outside barrier and there looks to be a lot of speed and pressure on paper which will help him, and I’m hoping with the confidence from his last start he can be very competitive again.

Race 5 is the BM70 Le Pine Funerals Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is ABINGER who is trained by Michael Kent. This four year old mare by Teofilo is lightly raced having had 10 starts and has won or placed in 6 of those. She races here fourth up for the campaign and has good form over the distance. From her five attempts at the distance she has placed three times and has raced once at the track and distance for a second placing. She resumed this preparation wearing blinkers and looked to over-race last start over the same distance and will have them removed from her head gear here. Hopefully she races kindly for me and if the track is racing evenly and she can make ground, she will be able to run home strongly as she is carrying the bottom weight of 55.5 kilos.

Race 6 is the BM70 The Big Screen Company Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is SURETOSHINE (NZ) who is trained by Bevan Laming. This four year old mare by Darci Brahma started her career off racing in New Zealand and is having her second Australian start here. She wears the colours of Karreman Racing. She won her maiden last start at Cranbourne over 1600 metres where she looked impressive and comes into this with confidence from that win. She steps up in grade and drops to the minimum weight and will need luck from a wide barrier draw. She looks to be a promising and progressive mare and I’m looking forward to seeing how she presents pre-race.

Race 8 is the BM84 Ladbrokes Odds Boost Handicap over 1800 metres, my ride here is ADMIRAL’S JOKER who is trained by Kylie Vella. This six year old gelding by Bel Esprit has been sparingly raced throughout his career and from his seven starts has only missed a top two placing twice. I picked up the ride on him last start as his regular rider Steven Vella was unwell and I was delighted to win on him in BM64 grade. He now steps up in grade and drops 5.5 kilos from his last run. I was pleased with his performance last start where he was stepping up to the 1726 metres for the first time and he again steps up in distance here, which I feel will suit him. He has drawn an inside barrier but it is important that the horse races on a consistent surface and footing, as he is not suited to shifty conditions under foot. If he gets a surface that suits him and he has taken natural improvement from last start, I expect he will be hard to beat again with the light weight.

Ballarat Preview

Today I’m riding at Ballarat. The rail is out 8 metres from the 600 metre point to the winning post, and the track is rated a soft 5. The inside section of the course is having works completed for the new synthetic track that is being installed, so we are racing on the old outside turf while the new track is installed.

Race 2 is the Sam Miranda Wines 2YO Fillies Maiden Plate over 1200 metres, my ride here is NOVEMBER (NZ) who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This filly by Tavistock (NZ) is raced by Yu Long Investments. She has had one official trial at Benalla over 1000 metres where she wasn’t beaten far and trialled well. I had my first ride on her when I rode her in a jumpout at Flemington recently and I was pleased with her performance. She was a bit nervous before she jumped out but gave me a really nice feel when I placed her under pressure. If she handles her first day at the races well and runs up to her jumpout, she will take a lot of beating.

Race 4 is the Champions Estate Ballarat 3YO Maiden Plate over 1600 metres, my ride here is SKYWAY STAR who is trained by Symon Wilde. This filly by Americain is lightly raced having had six starts, finishing second on three occasions. I rode her in the Spring in a Group 2 race where she finished 4.65 lengths behind Aristia, who subsequently won the Group 1 Oaks. Skyway Star races here third up and her first two runs this campaign have seen her finish second at Sandown and Bendigo respectively. She is stepping up in distance and will start from a favourable inside barrier draw and is the horse to beat based on her consistent form this campaign.

Race 5 is the Porter Plant F&M BM70 Handicap over 2000 metres, my ride here is HOT BLONDE (NZ) who is trained by Nikki Burke. This three year old filly by Sizzling is lightly raced having had only 3 career starts and has built a good record so far. She has had two runs this campaign, winning first up in what was a good training effort over 2000 metres at Pakenham, and then contesting a F&M BM78 race over 2100 metres at Sandown where she finished third. She is dropping back in grade here and from a wide barrier, providing the track is racing evenly and the race is run to suit her, I expect her to be able to run home over the top of these. She looks well placed here carrying 1.5 kilos above the minimum weight and can win this on her way to better races.

Randwick Preview

Today I’m riding at Randwick where it’s the first day of The Championships. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated a soft 7. There has been a lot of rain throughout the week and I’m looking forward to walking the track to see how it will race.

Race 3 is the Group 3 TAB ADRIAN KNOX STAKES over 2000 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is PRESSURE (NZ) who is trained by Matt Cumani. This daughter of Jakkalberry (IRE) is having her second run for the campaign and this will be her first start the Sydney way of going. She has been given the visitors draw and will start from a wide barrier. This is a tricky starting point as there is only a short distance until the first turn, which is a dog leg shape before reaching the back straight at the 1600m mark. PRESSURE is lightly raced and has been consistent in her career to date, from her six starts she has only missed a top three placing once. She is a filly that raced on-speed for most of her last preparation and I am encouraged that her trainer has decided to bring her interstate and compete in this grade of race, as she must be doing everything right at home. She is stepping up to a distance where she won her maiden over at Cranbourne last preparation. Although I haven’t spoken to her trainer or connections yet, I would assume we might take a chance from the wide barrier and go forward. If she can take up an on-speed position without having to do too much work from the outside barrier draw, and she handles the track direction I expect her to be there for a long way.

Race 4 is the NEWHAVEN PARK COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS FINAL over 1400 metres, my ride here is BOCELLI (JPN) who is trained by Tash Burleigh. This is the final of the Highway races so all of these horses have come from different form references. It’s an exciting concept for country trainers to showcase their horses on the first day of The Championships and race for very good prizemoney. BOCELLI is a five year old gelding by Shamardal who is raced by Paul Fudge of Waratah Thoroughbreds. He is lightly raced having had eight starts for a record of three wins and two minor placings and has only been out of the top four placings twice. He races here second up off the back of a solid first up run where he finished second to his stablemate, who is also in this race. We will start from an outside barrier and he is a horse that normally settles in the second half of the field, if we don’t have to give up too much ground and can get some cover, I expect him to be one of the main chances in this highly competitive final.

Race 5 is the Group 2 SCHWEPPES CHAIRMAN'S QUALITY over 2600 metres, my ride here is ETYMOLOGY who is trained by James Cummings. This six year old gelding by New Approach is raced by Godolphin. I was successful on him four starts ago at Flemington where he put together a sequence of three wins in a row. Since then he has been disappointing but he did carry the top weight in the Launceston Cup, and at his most recent start raced on a heavy track and it was reported that he had post-race issues. He comes into this on the minimum weight and has the blinkers removed from his head gear. If he can bounce back to his best form he can make his presence felt.

Race 7 is the Group 1 HARROLDS AUSTRALIAN DERBY over 2400 metres, my ride here is ARROGANT (NZ) who is trained by Michael Moroney. This three-year-old colt by Ocean Park runs in the colours of Rupert Legh. He has had nine starts for one win and three second placings. I rode him last start in the Group 1 Rosehill Guineas over 2000 metres on a heavy track, finishing narrowly in second to The Autumn Sun. He got a little bit nervous in the barrier stalls and was unsettled prior to the gates opening. Hopefully he has a good experience today and we don’t have to work too hard from a wide barrier to take up a position. I feel he will take a lot of beating in this race and I’m looking forward to riding him again.

Race 9 is the Group 1 THE STAR DONCASTER MILE over 1600 metres, my ride here is SHILLELAGH (NZ) who is trained by Chris Waller. This seven-year-old mare by Savabeel is a specialist over the mile and is a multiple Group 1 winner over the distance. She drops from being in weight for age racing to handicap conditions here and will carry the light weight of 53 kilos. Two starts ago I rode her at Flemington in the G1 Australian Cup over 2000 metres where she was narrowly beaten and last start at Rosehill, she was inconvenienced by a horse dropping back on her at the 600 metres, which cost her some five lengths and she also didn’t handle the heavy conditions. If the track has improved throughout the day and she feels comfortable in the going and we can utilise her inside barrier draw, she will be one of the main chances.

Race 10 is the Group 3 OFFICIAL MEMORABILIA P J BELL STAKES over 1200 metres three-year-old fillies, my ride here is MULTAJA who is trained by James Cummings. This daughter of Medaglia d’Oro is raced by Godolphin. She is a versatile filly who handles all track conditions and at her most recent run in NSW won on heavy ground over 1100 metres. She races third up here and comes into this with confidence from her last start victory. She is a horse that gets back and runs on and will start from an outside barrier. Looking back at her form, her run in the Group 3 Red Roses at Flemington in the Spring was very good with no luck. If she brings that form and the track is playing fairly, she can win this.

Sandown Preview

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

Race 2 is the BM78 Spicer Thoroughbreds Handicap over 1200 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is MY BIDDY who is trained by Doug Harrison. This four year old mare is by Wordsmith and is having her first Victorian start having raced previously in Tasmania. She has built a consistent record in Tasmania as from her 13 starts has won or placed in 10 of those, including 5 wins. Her first up run this preparation saw her finish second, one length behind Mystic Journey who has franked the form by winning the Group 1 Australian Guineas and All Star Mile at Flemington. Her next two runs this campaign have been disappointing, finishing last at G3 level on soft ground and then finishing just under five lengths from the winner over 1400 metres in the same grade. The stable has reported that she has galloped well since her arrival to Melbourne and I hope she just needs a change of environment and drop in grade, as on her best form she will be winning this.

Race 5 is the BM70 Yulong Handicap over 2400 metres, my ride here is ARGYLE BELLE who is trained by Doug Harrison. I’ve ridden this five year old mare by Dane Shadow in her past two runs and won on her two starts ago over the same distance in BM64 grade. At her most recent run she stepped up in grade and dropped back in distance to race against her own sex and was very disappointing, she was beaten by just over 3 lengths and I felt she failed to quicken as expected. She is stepping back up in trip to the same distance where she was successful two starts ago and if she can find that form, she will make her presence felt.

Race 6 is the BM70 Clanbrooke Racing Handicap over 1600 metres for three year old fillies, my ride here is NESSUNA FIDUCIA who is trained by Greg Eurell. This daughter of Trusting runs in the colours of Norm Saade. She is lightly raced having had only eight lifetime starts, winning two and placing twice. At the end of her last campaign she won the BM70 F&M 1700 metre race at Flemington over the Spring Carnival. I rode her in an official trial at Cranbourne prior to her first up run at Sandown on March 20^th. In that run she was going to be caught wide and settled at the back of the field, on a day where no horses were able to win when coming from off the speed, so I feel that run can be forgiven. She has drawn an inside barrier today and is stepping up in distance, if she can find her previous form from last preparation she will take a lot of beating.

Race 8 is the BM64 The Big Screen Company Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is ANALYTICA (NZ) who is trained by Patrick Payne. This three year old gelding by Shocking runs in the colours of Price Bloodstock. He’s had one start where he was the favourite and made all the running at Donald and was dominant in his maiden win. On the day he won, he ran a slightly slower time than the BM58 winner over the same distance and the form around that horse is strong and consistent, so the time ANALYTICA ran on debut holds up. He has drawn a nice barrier and is a horse that seems to make his own luck and this is a race that he can continue his winning form and make it two from two.

Rosehill Preview

Today I’m riding at Rosehill Gardens where it’s the last race meeting of their carnival. The rail is out 6 metres and the track is rated in the heavy range after continued rain throughout the week.

Race 1 is the Group 3 THE SCHWEPPERVESCENCE over 1400 metres for two year old’s, my ride here is SEPORTO who is trained by Clarry Conners. This gelding by Sepoy has had two starts and started at long odds in both. He is still a maiden and will need to improve on his first two runs to be competitive here, as this has turned out to be a very strong field. He does have the weight advantage in his favour as he drops to the minimum of 53.5 kilos.

Race 3 is the Group 2 TAB TULLOCH STAKES over 2000 metres for three year old colts and geldings, my ride here is COSSETOT who is trained by James Cummings. This gelding by Epaulette is raced by Godolphin. He is a highly consistent galloper who has only been out of the top three placings in one of his seven starts. Three starts ago he won the Listed Tasmanian Derby over 2200 metres, he was then freshened up and I rode him in his next two starts in Melbourne. He finished second at Caulfield in Group 2 company over 1800 metres where he was 2.25 lengths behind Global Exchange. He then stepped up in distance to 2040 metres at Moonee Valley at his most recent start and finished third, by an official margin of 0.2 length, where he was again beaten by Global Exchange. I felt he made good physical improvement from his Caulfield to Moonee Valley runs and I’m looking forward to seeing how he presents pre-race. He has the advantage of being exposed to rain affected ground previously and he will take a lot of beating in this.

Race 4 is the Group 2 JIM BEAM EMANCIPATION STAKES over 1500 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is INSENSATA who is trained by Jason Coyle. This five year old mare by Beneteau has had 27 starts and has won or placed in 11 of those. She races here third up for her preparation and has been competing against most of her rivals this campaign. Under the set weights and penalty conditions of this race she will carry the light weight of 54 kilos. With her racing pattern of settling off the speed, she will need luck in running but is a mare that is experienced and has winning form on rain affected tracks.

Race 7 is the Group 1 W.F.A KIA TANCRED STAKES over 2400 metres, my ride here is YOGI (NZ) who is trained by Ciaron Maher & David Eustace. I’ve won this race previously and last year finished second on AMBITIOUS in it. YOGI is a six year old gelding by Raise the Flag (GB) who is raced by Australian Thoroughbred Bloodstock and partners. He is a horse I have had a good amount of success on and have won four races on him. I rode him to a first up victory this preparation over 1800 metres where he was having his first start for his new trainers. He then ran very well in the Group 1 Australian Cup over 2000 metres at Flemington and is stepping up to his preferred distance range here. I feel the step up in distance and track conditions will enhance his chances, and he can be very competitive and looks to be one of the main contenders in this as he continues towards the Sydney Cup.

Pakenham Preview

This evening I’m riding at the Racing.com Park night meeting at Pakenham. The rail is out 6 metres and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 3 is the Come & Visit Spendthrift Australia F&M Maiden Plate over 1200 metres, my ride here is PUNKZY who is trained by Phillip Stokes. This daughter of Anacheeva is raced by Pat De Kretser and partners. She has had two lifetime starts and finished second in her debut run when racing over 1100 metres at Bendigo, flashing home in an eye-catching run coming from off the speed. She then stepped up in distance to 1400 metres and started favourite in her next run at Pakenham where she was beaten by 3.5 lengths. She was scoped post-race and it revealed she had some mucus. She has drawn ideally this evening and will start from a middle barrier and is dropping back in distance. If she reproduces her first up run she will take a lot of beating in this.

Sandown Preview

Today I’m riding at Sandown where it’s a twilight meeting. The rail is out 3 metres on the Lakeside circuit and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 2 is the MyPunter.com Plate over 1400 metres for maidens, my ride here is JUDGE O’REILLY (NZ) who is trained by Doug Harrison. This five year old gelding by O’Reilly (NZ) is lightly raced having had only six starts, placing second three times. I rode him at his most recent start at the same track on the Hillside circuit over 1300 metres where he finished second, in what is proving to be a good form race. He comes into this four weeks between runs and is stepping up slightly in distance. He is a horse that has a good amount of ability but has obliviously had issues as he is very lightly raced. If he has luck from a wide barrier and does everything right, he should be too good for theses and it would be great for him to win his maiden in city class.

Race 3 is the BM64 Clanbrooke Racing Handicap over 1300 metres, my ride here is SEARCH SQUAD (NZ) who is trained by Doug Harrison. This eight year old gelding by Falkirk (NZ) has raced consistently throughout his career and from his 66 starts has a record of 5 wins and 18 placings. He is well into his preparation having had five runs this campaign and will be at peak fitness. He has won and placed at this distance and has good form at the track. He is a horse that tends to get back and run on, needing the races run to suit him with speed on. On his best form he can win this and he hasn’t been beaten far in his past three runs, so he seems to be holding his form and racing well in this grade.

Race 4 is the Class 1 Spicer Thoroughbreds Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is MONTENEGRO MAN who is trained by Mark Kavanagh. This three year old gelding by Zoustar is lightly raced and is building a progressive record, from his four career starts, he hasn’t finished further back than fourth. He won his maiden on debut before being sent for a spell and has raced very well in his three runs this campaign. He will start from a middle barrier and is racing over the same distance that he competed over last start in Adelaide, where he was beaten by less than a length and I expect him to be hard to beat in this race.

Race 5 is the BM64 The Big Screen Company Handicap over 1300 metres, my ride here is VALENCIANO (NZ) who is trained by Phillip Stokes. This three year old filly is by Darci Brahma (NZ) and is raced by Aston Bloodstock and partners. She has had two lifetime starts where she started favourite in both, winning her maiden at her most recent start. She steps up slightly in distance and from a middle barrier draw, in this competitive race, looks like the horse to beat.

Race 6 is the BM64 Yulong Handicap over 2400 metres, my ride here is MANNING ROAD who is trained by Rachael Cunningham. This five year old mare by Casino Prince has been in great form this preparation, winning when racing first up over 1400 metres at Bendigo, before stepping up in distance and racing very well to finish second at Moonee Valley. Her most recent start saw her race over 2040 metres at Moonee Valley where she closed the race out strongly. Last preparation she competed over 3200 metres in a hurdle race and it looks like she is building towards the jumps season again as she continues to step up in distance in her races. She will start from a wide barrier and is a horse that needs good speed and pressure in her races as she settles in the second half of the field and needs the track to be racing evenly. Last week when the rail was in the true position on the same circuit it was difficult for horse to make ground and win from off the speed. Hopefully today is different, as this race maps well for her with good speed on paper and this should help her to finish off strongly over the concluding stages if the track is playing fairly.

Race 8 is the BM70 Our Lost Loved Ones Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is EIGHT TIMES A LADY who is trained by Wendy Kelly. This four year old mare by Hard Spun (USA) is raced by Ken King Thoroughbreds and partners. She is a consistent mare that has won or been placed in almost half of her starts. She won four starts ago and has held that form throughout her recent racing, running extremely well at her last start. She steps up in grade here but drops 3 kilos in weight and will be given every possibility to continue her consistent form from a favourable barrier draw.

Geelong Preview

Today I’m riding at Geelong. The rail is out 5 metres and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 2 is the No Fuss Event Hire 3YO Maiden Plate over 1421 metres, my ride here is THEME PARK (NZ) who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This gelding by Ocean Park runs in the colours of Waikato Stud. He is having his fourth lifetime start here and third run for this preparation. From his three runs to date he has placed third on two occasions and races over the same distance range as last start. I rode him for the first time in a jumpout at Flemington last Friday in preparation for this assignment, I liked the feel he gave me and he will take a lot of beating in this.

Race 3 is the Viatek Maiden Plate over 1321 metres, my ride here is FABRIC (NZ) who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This filly is also by Ocean Park and runs in the colours of Waikato Stud. Although I haven’t ridden her on raceday I have done a lot of work on her and rode her in three official trials at Cranbourne before her first up run last year and felt she was still a bit new to it all but had good ability. She had three runs in her first racing campaign for two second placings before being sent for a spell and runs first up here. The form around her fourth placing two starts ago where she finished less than two lengths from the winner is strong, producing horses that have won or been competitive at city grade. I rode Fabric in a recent jumpout in preparation for this race and was very happy with the progress she has made and the way she has developed and strengthened up. Although she has a wide barrier to contend with she should be too strong for these.

Race 4 is the Congrats! Tara & Dan are getting married Class 1 Handicap over 2233 metres, my ride here is REINVIGORATE (NZ) who is also trained by Danny O'Brien. This three year old gelding by O’Reilly (NZ) is lightly raced having had two lifetime starts. He finished third on debut at Sandown over 1400 metres before winning his maiden when stepping up in distance to 1850 metres at Kyneton in impressive style. He now steps up again in distance and even though he is taking on the older horses, this is a good race for him to win again and make it two wins from his last two starts.

Race 6 is the DMB Contracting BM64 Handicap over 1726 metres, my ride here is ADMIRAL’S JOKER who is trained by Kylie Vella. This is a pick up ride as Kylie’s husband Steven is unwell and unable to take the ride and I was delighted to accept in his absence. ADMIRAL’S JOKER is a six year old gelding by Bel Esprit that is lightly raced having had only six career runs. He is building a progressive and consistent record as from his six starts has finished in the top two placings four times and hasn’t finished further back than fifth. This will be his fourth run this preparation and his first attempt at the distance, having watched his replays it looks like he will appreciate racing over this distance range. He has drawn an inside barrier and I am confident he will take a lot of beating in this race.

Race 7 is the Geelong Homes BM58 Handicap over 1221 metres, my ride here is SHIR who is also trained by Danny O'Brien. This four year old gelding by Sepoy is very well bred with his dam, Leone Chiara, being the mother of Star Witness. SHIR has had five starts for a win and second placing with both coming in his first racing preparation. He races first up here and has been placed with racing fresh and his maiden win was over the same distance as today’s race. His recent official trial at Cranbourne in preparation for his return was pleasing and he will gain an economical run in transit from a favourable barrier draw. I’m looking forward to seeing how he presents pre-race and feel he should be hard to beat in this grade of race. 

Rosehill Preview

Today I’m riding at Rosehill Gardens where it’s Golden Slipper Day. The rail is out three metres and the track is rated in the heavy range with rain throughout the week. It’s a great day of racing featuring four Group 1 races and what is planned to be Winx’s second last race start before retirement.

Race 2 is the Listed CAMERA HOUSE DARBY MUNRO STAKES over 1200 metres for three year old’s, my ride here is POISED TO STRIKE who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This gelding by Akeed Mofeed (GB) is raced by Goldin Farms. He is lightly raced and from his six career starts hasn’t finished further back than fifth and has won two races. I won on him at the start of this campaign over the same distance at Flemington and his last two starts have seen him race at Group 3 level over the same distance. This will be his first run in Sydney and he has the advantage of racing and winning on soft ground previously. He has drawn ideally and should gain an economical run in transit from the barriers and if he handles the track conditions, on his best form he should make his presence felt.

Race 4 is the Group 1 SKY RACING ROSEHILL GUINEAS over 2000 metres for three-year old’s, my ride here is ARROGANT (NZ) who is trained by Michael Moroney. This colt by Ocean Park is having his first race start in Australia since arriving from New Zealand. He has had eight starts in NZ with a record of one win and two second placings. He is coming back in distance from his last start effort where he finished fourth in the Group 1 NZ Derby over 2400 metres and prior to that run he finished second at Group 2 level over 2000 metres. His form around MADISON COUNTY in New Zealand lines up well with MADISON COUNTY being beaten by less than three lengths by The Autumn Sun last start in the Randwick Guineas.ARROGANT has drawn a favourable barrier draw and has the advantage of being exposed to soft track conditions previously, recording a win and second placing from his three attempts on rain affected ground. All being well he will race close to the speed and will give himself every opportunity and being a fit horse that handles the track conditions, he will be in this for a long way and can make his presence felt.

Race 6 is the W.F.A Group 1 RANVET STAKES over 2000 metres, my ride here is SHILLELAGH (NZ) who is trained by Chris Waller. This seven year old mare by Savabeel is raced by the Grace family. I had my first ride on her last time out at Flemington where she was narrowly beaten in the Group 1 Australian Cup. She stays at the same distance here and returns to the Sydney way of going and has drawn a low barrier. She is racing in great form and if she brings that form here she will take a lot of beating and I’m really looking forward to riding her again.

Race 8 is the Group 1 OOH!MEDIA GALAXY over 1100 metres, my ride here is ENCRYPTION who is trained by James Cummings. This three year old colt by Lonhro is raced by Godolphin. I’ve ridden him in most of his recent runs, with the exception of last start where he was ridden by Rachel King. He is a consistent colt who has been placed at Group 1 level and is a Group 2 and 3 winner. Two starts ago he finished second under the same handicap conditions of this race in the Group 1 Oakleigh Plate at Caulfield over 1100 metres. He then contested the Group 1 Newmarket at Flemington where he ran really well to finish 3.2 lengths from the winner. He returns to the Sydney was of going and has raced this way in previous preparations. We will need luck from an outside barrier and he is a horse that usually settles at the tail end of the field. There looks to be a lot of speed on paper here and the field should go extremely fast throughout the early stages. This will be the first time he is exposed to rain affected track conditions but if he handles the ground and the track is racing evenly, I expect him to be hitting the line strongly with a light weight of 51 kilos on his back. Winning this race would secure his future as a stallion prospect at stud with his dam, Guelph, being a multiple Group 1 winner.

Race 9 is the Group 3 E-GROUP SECURITY EPONA STAKES over 1900 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is DOMED who is trained by John Thompson. I rode this five year old mare by Duke of Marmalade (IRE) in the same race last year, finishing second on her. She comes into this at peak fitness having had three runs this campaign and is racing extremely well. She is well treated under the set weights and penalty conditions of this race and if she has luck from the wide barrier, she can go one better than last year and will take a lot of beating in this. 

Moonee Valley Preview

This evening I’m riding at the Moonee Valley night meeting, it’s the last meeting at this course for the night racing season. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated in the good range. I’m looking forward to walking the track to see if there may be any patterns and how it may race.

Race 2 is the Listed Sun Stud Valley Pearl over 1200 metres for two year old’s, my ride here is LADY LUPINO who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This two year old filly by Sebring has had two starts and won on debut at this course over 1000 metres where she led the field and the rail was to her advantage. She was then sent for a spell and resumed this preparation at Morphettville in the Listed Cinderella Stakes over 1050 metres. She again led the field and was not able to sustain her speed and was beaten by 4.7 lengths. She now returns to the track where she won first up and will start from a favourable inside barrier. If she finds that form and runs out the 1200 metres strongly, then she can make her presence felt.

Race 4 is the BM70 Simpson Construction Handicap over 2040 metres, my ride here is DELIGHTFUL CELYNA who is trained by Christine Sexton. This five year old mare by Delightful Choice has had 18 starts, winning or placing in five of those, including three wins. She has really found form recently with her last five runs producing three wins in a row, a fourth placing where she was beaten by less than two lengths and a second placing last start at Sandown over 1800 metres. She is stepping up in distance and grade and will carry half a kilo above the minimum weight. She will start from an outside barrier and is a mare that usually steps slowly from the gates. Hopefully, she can step cleanly from the barriers and take up a position, in a race where there looks to be a lot of pressure on paper. With luck from the barriers I expect she can continue her consistent and competitive recent form.

Race 5 is the Ladbrokes 55 Second Challenge Heat 17 over 955 metres, my ride here is DEMONSTRATE who is trained by my Father and Brother, Allan & Jason Williams and races in my wife’s colours. This six-year-old gelding by New Approach (IRE) races second up here and seems to enjoy racing at this track as from his 10 starts has won or placed in five of those, and from his three attempts at the course and distance has won twice. He has drawn ideally in barrier one and I expect he will have taken natural improvement from his first up effort at Flemington. If he has luck in running I expect he will be very competitive in the final of this series.

Race 6 is the Group 3 Dynamic Print Group Alexandra Stakes over 1600 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is VICTORY KINGDOM who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. I’ve ridden this daughter of Animal Kingdom (USA) in all of four of her starts and she hasn’t finished further back than third. This will be her first attempt over the 1600 metres and she is stepping up in distance from 1400 last start. She appreciates the Moonee Valley surface as from her two starts here has finished second and third. She also has a change to her head gear with the winkers coming off. She stepped slowly from the barriers last start before over-racing and I felt she was the winner with 200 metres to go, but was beaten narrowly by Spanish Whisper late in the race. Most of her rivals from last start meet her here either equal or worse off at the weights. If she continues her consistent form and can stay the distance she will take a lot of beating in this.