Sandown Preview

Today I’m riding at Sandown. The rail is in the true position on the Lakeside circuit and the track is rated in the heavy range after receiving a lot of rain this week.

Race 1 is the Ladbrokes Odds Boost Plate over 1400 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is BIRDWING (NZ) who is trained by John Sadler. This daughter of Showcasing is raced by Dr Tan. She is lightly raced having had only five starts, achieving two placings. Last preparation she was tested in 3F BM70 grade, finishing fourth and just under three lengths behind My Pendant. She resumed this preparation in a Listed race in Adelaide and races second up here. She is dropping back to maiden grade and will carry 56.5 kilos. She is a horse that usually gets back in her races so hopefully the track is racing evenly and allowing horses to finish off and if that’s the case, she will be able to win her maiden here.

Race 3 is the BM64 Blue Star Print Handicap over 1200 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is CURIOUS HEART who is trained by Doug Harrison. This daughter of Kuroshio has had six lifetime starts and has a record of a win and three placings. Last preparation when she stepped up in distance she was able to dominate races when racing on-speed. She ended her last campaign racing at Sandown on the Hillside circuit over 1300 metres where she raced on-speed and finished third, being beaten by Terbium – who subsequently went on to win a Group 3 race at Caulfield in the Autumn. Curious Heart races first up here and if she has luck from a wide barrier and finds her best form, she will be very competitive in this.

Race 6 is The Big Screen Company Handicap over 1300 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is OUR CAMPANA who is trained by Colin Little. This three-year-old daughter of Bel Esprit is raced by good family friends of mine in Tod Shelton. She has had six starts for a record of two wins and a second placing. She has been racing consistently this preparation and with luck in running would have won another race. She won on soft ground two starts ago at Cranbourne and if she handles the heavy track conditions today, she will be the horse to beat.

Race 8 is the BM78 Ladbrokes Back Yourself Handicap over 2100 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is DUNS ’N’ ROSES who is trained by John Sadler. This three-year-old filly by Dundeel is raced by Owen Eagan and partners. Even though her soft track record is two starts for no placings, those two starts were when she was a two-year old racing over less than her best distance range and she managed to finish less than two lengths from the winner in one of those, so it gives me confidence that she will be able to handle the ground. She comes into this race full of confidence after winning her maiden last start over 2400 metres and is dropping to the minimum weight of 54 kilos. If we have luck from a wide barrier draw and she handles the track conditions and drop back in distance, I expect she can be very competitive. 

Moe Preview

Today I’m riding at Moe. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated in the heavy range after receiving a lot of rain in the past few days.

Race 3 is the Moe Optical 2YO Maiden Plate over 1100 metres, my ride here is BELLE’S A REBEL who is trained by Cindy Alderson. This daughter of Dissident is having her first start here, as are all of her opposition. Although I haven’t ridden BELLE’S A REBEL, I have seen her jumpout at Cranbourne and I worked a horse with her in a recent gallop at trackwork. I feel if she brings her jumpout form and trackwork to the races she will take a lot of beating. 

Caulfield Preview

Today I’m riding at Caulfield. The rail is out 14 metres and the track is rated in the soft range. It’s an important day for the Melbourne Racing Club Foundation as it’s a day they are raising money and awareness for FightMND, which is Motor Neurone Disease. The foundation is selling the FightMND beanies and they will certainly come in handy on this cold winter’s day and I encourage anyone in attendance to purchase one or donate to the cause.

Race 1 is the Whisky Wine & Fire Handicap over 1200 metres for two-year old’s, my ride here is ZEE HOARDER who is trained by Cindy Alderson. This gelding by Zebedee (GB) is having his first race start here. I rode him recently in track work and was impressed with the feel he gave me, he was solid in his work and I felt that he was ready to go to the races. I feel he has above average ability but he will need some luck from a wide barrier against this competitive field. If he can produce the same standard of work as his recent gallop under raceday conditions, he will make his presence felt.

Race 2 is the Ladbrokes Back Yourself Handicap over 2000 metres for three-year old’s, my ride here is SKYWAY STAR who is trained by Symon Wilde. This daughter of Americain (USA) is lightly raced having had 10 starts for a record of one win and five placings. I rode her when she won her maiden over 1600 metres and she is one of only a couple of horses in this field that have raced over further than the 2000 metres. She competed last start in Adelaide in the Group 3 SA Fillies Classic over 2500 where she finished third, just over half a length from the winner. She is dropping back in distance and grade, has drawn a low barrier and will carry the minimum weight of 54 kilos. If she can utilise the inside barrier she will take a lot of beating.

Race 3 is the Grunt Standing @ Yulong Handicap over 1440 metres for three-year old’s, my ride here is LIGULATE who is trained by James Cummings. This gelding by Domesday is raced by Godolphin. He has had 16 starts for a record of two wins and five placings. He’s done the majority of his racing in NSW but two starts ago competed at this course over 1600 metres, finishing fifth – just over a length and a half behind Tarwin, which is a strong form reference for this time of the year. His most recent run was at Flemington over 1600 metres seven days ago where he finished just behind Fidelia, who holds the strongest three-year old form reference for the last few weeks in Victoria. He is dropping back in distance and has the gear change of winkers off, blinkers on. If he handles racing on the seven-day turnaround and the blinkers have the desired affect, he will be very competitive and hard to beat in this.

Race 4 is the BM78 Long Fine Plate over 1600 metres, my ride here is PAREMUUS BOY who is trained by Matthew Williams. This five-year-old gelding by Onemorenomore has been very competitive throughout his career with a record of five wins and four placings from his 24 starts. He won at this distance and grade four starts ago at Moonee Valley on February 15^th. He is a horse that gets back in his races and prior to scratching’s there looked to be a lot of speed on paper, but after scratching time most of the speed has come out of the race. Due to this horse’s run style, he will need the race run to suit him and the track to be racing evenly to help him run on and make ground over the concluding stages.

Race 5 is the MRC Membership Renewal Handicap over 1100 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 been in excellent form this preparation and has been a consistent galloper throughout his career, from his 19 starts he has recorded seven wins and been placed another five times. I rode him two starts ago at Flemington where he beat Order Of Command, who has subsequently won his next two starts. Bandipur then competed over the same course and distance at his next run, finishing two lengths behind Moonlover into fourth place. He steps up in distance to a range where he has had three wins from his five starts and is a winner at the track and distance. He comes into this race 3.5 kilos above the minimum and from a favourable barrier draw will take a lot of beating.

Race 6 is the QMS Media 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. She is lightly raced having had nine starts for a record of three wins and three placings. I’ve ridden her at her last two runs, for a win and second placing. Two starts ago we won at this course over 1000 metres, she then raced at this course and distance going up six kilos in weight and was narrowly beaten to finish second behind Bam's On Fire, who she meets again here much better at the weights. This race looks like it will map well for Propelle and she comes into this 1.5 kilos above the minimum. If she holds her form from her last two starts, she will be winning this.

Race 7 is the BM84 Ladbrokes Odds Boost Handicap over 1440 metres, my ride here is NANGAWOOKA who is trained by Matthew Brown. This six-year-old gelding by Equiano (FR) races first up here and from his previous four attempts when racing fresh has placed third twice. He’s had six runs over this distance, finishing third in three of those. He handles all racing surfaces and is a consistent galloper. He has drawn a low favourable barrier and will give himself every opportunity to run well again here.

Race 8 is the BM90 Whisky Wine & Fire Volvo Cars Brighton Handicap over 1200 metres for mares, 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, talented mare who from her six starts has won three races and finished second once. I had my first ride on her last start in Adelaide in the Group 3 DC McKay Stakes where she was beaten by just over three lengths by the subsequent Group 1 Goodwood Handicap winner in Despatch. She comes into this four weeks between runs, back against her own sex and is dropping back to BM grade and carries the minimum weight. She also has a gear change with the visor going on for the first time. She will start from a wide barrier but if the track is racing evenly and she brings her best form, she will take a lot of running down.

Race 9 is the Catanach's Jewellers Handicap over 2000 metres, my ride here is MORTON’S FORK who is trained by James Cummings. This five-year-old gelding by Ad Valorem (USA) is raced by Godolphin. I won the Group 2 Sandown Guineas on him when he was a three-year-old and last year won two races on him, one being at Caulfield and the other at Moonee Valley over this distance. His last three runs in Melbourne have been excellent where although he hasn’t won, he hasn’t been beaten far and they set him up well for this assignment. He has drawn a favourable barrier and with winning form on soft ground will take a lot of beating in this if he runs up his best form.

Sale Preview

Today I’m riding at Sale. The rail is out 6 metres from the 800 to the winning post and 3 metres for the remainder, and the track is rated in the heavy range after overnight rain.

Race 1 is the Graham Chalmer Real Estate 3YO Maiden Plate over 1416 metres for three-year old, 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’s had five starts and been placed in three of those. This will be my second ride on him after riding him two starts ago at Geelong. He jumped slowly from a wide barrier over the same distance and made up steady ground in the straight from back in the field, in what was a slowly run race. He was ridden on-speed in his next start and put in a good effort to be beaten by just under half a length, finishing second. He has drawn a favourable low barrier draw here and comes into this a very fit horse having had four runs this campaign. He also had a recent official trial at Werribee to keep his fitness levels up to the mark for this. Provided he hands the track conditions he will take a lot of beating in this.

Race 3 is the First National Real Estate Maiden Plate over 1210 metres, my ride here is ABRAXOS who is trained by Nikki Burke. This three-year-old colt by Star Witness made his debut run at Mornington over 1000 metres where he finished the race off strongly, finishing less than two lengths from the winner. The step up in distance looks like it will suit him and he will start from a wide barrier. If the track is playing favourably and he has trained-on since his first up run, he can win this.

Race 5 is the John Elliman Real Estate BM64 Handicap over 2231 metres, my ride here is MARIE ADELAIDE who is trained by Michael Kent. This five-year-old mare by Reset is lightly raced having had seven starts for a win and third placing. She races here fourth up this preparation and returns to the track and distance which saw her win her maiden. She has drawn a low barrier draw and if she finds her best form in this competitive race, will make her presence felt.

Sandown Preview

Today I’m riding at Sandown on the Lakeside circuit. The rail is out 10 metres and the track is rated in the soft range. With the rail in this position on the Lakeside circuit it usually allows horses from back in the field to be able to finish off, compared to in the true position on this circuit when it can be hard to make ground.

Race 1 is the Ladbrokes Info Hub Handicap over 1200 metres for two-year old fillies, my ride here is FAIRY WAND who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This daughter of Redoute’s Choice runs in the Anderson colours and is having her first start here. I have ridden her in two official trials in preparation for her debut run and was pleased with, not only her performance, but the natural progression she displayed between the two trials. She missed the start in her first trial by four lengths and in her second trial was only marginally slow out, so she is learning and improving with each experience. She will need some luck from a wide barrier draw but if she brings her trial form to the races she will be very competitive.

Race 5 is the BM64 Samson Handicap over 1300 metres for three-year old’s, my ride here is AMMOUDI BAY who is trained by Symon Wilde. This gelding by Starcraft is raced by Price Bloodstock. He’s had three runs for a record of one win and two fourth placings, he was beaten by just over a length in each of the runs where he finished fourth. He is a horse that is improving with each of his starts but can still race greenly and has been a work in progress. He has drawn a low barrier draw and is dropping back slightly in distance from his most recent start. The inside barrier will be to his advantage and if he can gain a smooth run in transit with some luck, he will take a lot of beating.

Race 6 is the BM84 Ladbrokes Cash In Handicap over 1300 metres, my ride here is SPIRIT OF AQUADA who is trained by Gareth Andrews. This four-year-old gelding by Bel Esprit has had 21 starts and been placed in 14 of those, including three wins. This preparation he has been very consistent finishing first or second until two starts ago when he was disappointing when finishing 8^thand was only 3.3 lengths from the winner at Flemington. He steps up in grade and distance from his most recent start at Cranbourne and drops in weight to carry 2.5 kilos above the minimum. There looks to be a good amount of pressure on paper in this field and on his best form is the horse to beat.

Race 7 is the BM84 Ladbrokes Cash Out Handicap over 2100 metres, my ride here is THUNDER CLOUD who is trained by Ciaron Maher & David Eustace. This five-year-old gelding by Manhattan Rain runs in Manfred Krauser colours. This will be my fourth ride on him and from my three rides to date I’ve finished first, second and third. At his most recent start in Adelaide over 2000 metres in BM90 grade he finished second and wanted to over-race and do a few things wrong. Today he has the gear change with the blinkers off and the visors on and will need some luck from a wide barrier. He has been successful at this course and distance and at his two runs over the distance is unbeaten. This is a very competitive race but if he has luck in running and races kindly with the gear change he will take a lot of beating. 

Flemington Preview

Today I’m riding at Flemington where it’s National Jockey’s Trust Day. The Jockey’s Trust is a vital and important charity to the industry that has been able to help a lot of injured riders and their families, both past and present. The rail is out 3 metres and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 1 is the Cobcroft Support National Jockeys Trust Trophy over 1200 metres for two-year old’s, my ride here is SEBRAKATE who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This colt by Sebring is raced by Seymour Bloodstock and partners. He had six starts in his first racing preparation, winning at his first two run and has only missed a top two placing twice. He has raced in South Australia, New South Wales – where he ran second to the subsequent Golden Slipper winner in Kiamichi and wasn’t far behind the group performer Athiri, and in Queensland where he contested the Magic Millions two-year-old race before being spelled. He has jumped out well in preparation for his first up run and is the horse to beat.

Race 2 is the Donate to NJTappeal.com.au Trophy over 1600 metres for three-year old’s, my ride here is TOWER ROAD (NZ) who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This gelding by Savabeel has had five starts and has only missed a top three placing once, when he finished fourth. He resumed this preparation with a solid win at the Warrnambool May Carnival over 1400 metres and races second up here. He drops in weight from his first up effort and with the natural improvement and confidence from that run, he will take a lot of beating in this.

Race 3 is the BM78 LUCRF Super Handicap over 1100 metres, my ride here is EURACK who is trained by Nathan McPherson. This five-year old mare by Oneworld is lightly raced having had six starts, winning four of those. She has had an official trial and jumpout in preparation for her return to racing and I rode her in the jumpout. I loved the way she relaxed for me and displayed a good amount of acceleration to win her jumpout at Cranbourne. She is very well placed in this ratings race and barrier 18 shouldn’t be a disadvantage over the straight course. I’m looking forward to having my first race ride on her and expect she will be hard to beat.

Race 4 is the TAB Support National Jockeys Trust Trophy over 1600 metres, my ride here is ODEON (NZ) who is trained by Mathew Ellerton & Simon Zahra. This five-year-old gelding by Zacinto has had 31 starts and has won or placed in almost half of those. He is a horse that has shown good ability throughout his career and has competed at Group level. This will be his fifth run this campaign and he is dropping back in distance with the blinkers being applied for the first time. I rode him in an official trial at Werribee on Monday with the blinkers and liked the way he responded to them. He is a horse that races close to the speed and has drawn a low barrier. He has been racing consistently without winning for some time but I feel the gear change is a positive one and he can win this.

Race 5 is the BM78 PFD Food Services Handicap over 1400 metres for three-year old fillies, my ride here is FABRIC (NZ) who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This daughter of Ocean Park runs in the colours of Waikato Stud. I know this filly well having done a lot of work on her early in her career at the trials and had my first race ride on her at the start of this campaign, where she won her maiden at Geelong. I also rode her in her second up run this preparation in a strong 3F BM64 at Sandown where we had no luck and finished third, less than a length from the winner. Her most recent run was at this course and distance where she was just over three lengths from the winner. She will start from a middle barrier and has the minimum weight of 54 kilos for her fourth-up run. If she has luck in running she will run a competitive race and has the ability to win here.

Race 6 is the BM84 Heritage Finance Handicap over 1800 metres, my ride here is DR DRILL (GB) who is trained by Ciaron Maher & David Eustace. This four-year-old imported gelding by Dansili is raced by Glenvallen Investments. He’s had two runs since arriving to Australia, closing off nicely to finish second and fourth respectively and was beaten by less than a length on both occasions. He has drawn a low barrier, is stepping up in distance from his most recent run which was over 1620 metres and will carry two kilos above the minimum weight. He looks to be a progressive horse that will make his presence felt.

Race 7 is the Listed Hilton Nicholas Straight Six over 1200 metres, my ride here is HAUNTED who is trained by James Cummings. This four-year-old gelding by Lonhro is raced by Godolphin. He is lightly raced and has built a very good record, from his 13 starts he has only missed a top three placing once and has won six races. He hasn’t missed a top three placing from his four attempts at the distance and from his three runs at the course, also hasn’t missed a top three placing. He races here third up and is stepping up in distance to the 1200 metres which is the distance he won over first up this campaign. He is the class galloper of this field and is the horse to beat.

Race 8 is the Listed Andrew Ramsden over 2800 metres, my ride here is SHEEZDASHING who is trained by Mathew Ellerton & Simon Zahra. This race is restricted to three, four- and five-year old’s with the winner gaining a ballot exemption from The Melbourne Cup. SHEEZDASHING is a four-year-old mare by Myboycharlie that is raced by Dominic Romanelli and partners. Although she has only had the one win she has raced in group and listed races for the majority of her career. She is well into her campaign having had five runs and this will be her first attempt over the extended distance, at her most recent run she finished second in the Warrnambool Cup over 2350 metres. She is a mare that has a relaxed style of racing that will help her run out the distance and she will appreciate the spacious Flemington track. This is the first time this race has been a ballot free exemption for the Melbourne Cup and it would be a great race to win looking forward to the first Tuesday in November.

Race 9 is the Furphy Ale Plate over 1100 metres for three-year old’s, my ride here is AKKADIAN who is trained by Matt Cumani. This colt by Nicconi races here fourth up this campaign and I’ve ridden him twice this preparation. I won on him first up at Pakenham over 1200 metres and finished second on him at his most recent start at Caulfield over 1100 metres where he took on the older horses, was dropping back in distance and had the blinkers on for the first time. He finished less than half a length behind William Thomas, which is a strong form reference for this time of the year. If he handles his first attempt racing over the straight course he will be one of the main chances.

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.