Moonee Valley Preview

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

Race 1 is the Schweppes We Get Golf Plate over 1000 metres, it’s a race for two year old fillies that have not won a metropolitan race and my ride here is KIBIBI, who is trained by James Cummings. This daughter of Exceed And Excel is raced by Godolphin. She had one start last preparation where she ran in the Group 3 Gimcrack, which was the first 2 year old race of the new season. She was disappointing in finishing last, but it was noted that she had a slow recovery. She commences a new campaign here and this will be her first time racing the Melbourne way of going. I’m looking forward to seeing her in the mounting yard and how she performs at her second lifetime start. 

Pakenham Preview

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

Race 1 is the Racing.com 2YO Maiden Plate over 1200 metres, my ride here is LANDSTRASSE who is trained by James Cummings. This two year old colt by Sepoy is raced by Godolphin. He has had one lifetime start at Geelong and although he finished 7^th, he was less than two lengths from the winner and finished the race off strongly. He had no early speed when he jumped from the barriers and wasn’t able to take advantage from his inside barrier draw. I expect he will have taken natural improvement from his first up run and if I can utilise his favourable barrier draw and have him close to the speed throughout the early stages, I expect him to be very competitive in this.

Race 7 is the Superior Food Services F&M BM64 Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is CATARACTA (NZ) who is trained by Ciaron Maher & David Eustace. I’ve ridden this four year old mare by Niagara some 6 months ago, when winning her maiden at Sandown over 1200 metres. She is lightly raced and from her four lifetime starts has recorded one win and a second placing, both of those being in her first racing campaign. This preparation she has had two starts and it seems she hasn’t recaptured the good form she displayed in her first campaign. She races here in the right class and grade for her and is stepping up to the 1400 for the first time. She will start from an outside barrier and if we have luck in running and she can find her best form, which has been on soft ground so the cushion surface that Pakenham provides should benefit her, she can be competitive.

Sandown Preview

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

Race 1 is the Ladbrokes Plate over 1200 metres for two year old fillies that have not won a metropolitan race, my ride here is REWARD who is trained by Michael Kent. This daughter of Reward for Effort runs in the colours of Joan Walker and is a half-sister to Amadeus. She has had one start at Flemington where she finished six lengths behind Jedastar, who finished second in the fillies Group 3 Blue Diamond Preview at Caulfield on Saturday. In preparation for her second up run I rode her for the first time in an official trial at Pakenham over 1000 metres on January 15^th. She was very professional with a good attitude and I felt she would benefit from the step up in distance and will appreciate the 1200 metres of this race.

Race 2 is the Mypunter.com Plate over 1200 metres, it’s a maiden race for three year old’s and upwards, my ride here is VICTORY KINGDOM who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This daughter of Animal Kingdom (USA) is raced by Team Valor and wears the colours made famous by her father, Animal Kingdom, who was a champion dirt horse in America and also the winner of the 2013 Dubai World Cup at Meydan. VICTORY KINGDOM has had one start where I rode her at Moonee Valley, she jumped in the air and bound at the start on that occasion and closed the race off extremely well to finish in second placing. The horse that beat her at Moonee Valley has franked the form, running well at his next two city appearances. I feel she will have taken a great deal of natural improvement from her first up run and has the addition of blinkers to her head gear. If we can utilise her inside barrier draw and she jumps cleanly from the barriers, then she will be winning.

Race 4 is the BM78 Spicer Thoroughbreds Handicap over 1600 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is PURE SCOT who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. I’ve ridden this four year old mare by Purrealist in her last two starts, finishing fourth at Flemington before winning last time out over the same course and distance. She goes up in grade and drops half a kilo in weight from her last start victory. She meets a small field here and tactics will play a big part throughout the early stages. She comes into this a mare who is racing in consistent form, full of confidence and is one of the main chances in this competitive race.

Race 6 is the BM70 Clanbrooke Racing Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is FREE FLY TOO who is also trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This lightly raced four-year-old gelding by Teofilo (IRE) is raced by Eric Wong. I rode him first up this preparation at Caulfield over the same distance where he got back in the field and I felt he would benefit from having clearer galloping room, as he didn’t appreciate racing behind and inside of horses, when he gained room in the straight he closed the race off very well. Having taken natural fitness benefit from his first up run, he comes into this with a great second up record and from a nice middle barrier will make his presence felt.

Caulfield Preview

Today I’m riding at Caulfield where it’s the Australia Day meeting. The rail is out 3 metres and the track is rated in the good range. All of the horses racing in Victoria with the number one saddle cloth are honoured with their riders wearing the Australia Day colours.

Race 1 is the Cape Grim Beef Plate over 1100 metres for three year old fillies, my ride here is EMBRACE ME (NZ) who is trained by Danny O'Brien. She’s a lightly raced filly by Shamexpress (NZ) that is building a progressive record and from her seven career starts has won on three occasions. She has won her last two starts with both being over 1200 metres at Moonee Valley. She drops back slightly to 1100 metres here and will carry two kilos less than her most recent run, due to the set weights and penalties conditions of this race. She does have to beat the favourite in Crack The Code, but with luck in running she can continue her good form and make it three wins in a row.

Race 2 is The Mary Bell handicap over 1100 metres, it’s a race for fillies and mares, my ride here is QUEEN ANNABEL who is trained by Rebecca Kelly. This five year old mare by Bel Esprit has been racing well this preparation although we had no luck last time out when racing over the same course and distance on January 5^th. She comes into this three weeks between runs and will start from a low barrier draw, and if she can find her best form she will make her presence felt.

Race 4 is the Listed Ladbrokes Blue Diamond Preview over 1000 metres, it’s the colts and gelding’s division, my ride here is LODESTAR who is trained by Colin Little. This two year old colt is by the highly popular stallion in Zoustar. I’ve ridden him twice in the lead up to his debut run, once in a jumpout at Caulfield and most recently in an official trial at Werribee on Tuesday where she showed vast improvement. He is an amorous colt with his trainer stating “if he performs half as good as he thinks he is, he will be winning this”. I expect him to be very competitive from a favourable, inside barrier draw but his chances will depend on how he copes with the raceday experience and how he handles himself pre-race. He has shown me very good ability and I’m looking forward to seeing him in the mounting yard and riding him under raceday conditions for the first time.

Race 5 is the Group 3 Ladbrokes Blue Diamond Preview over 1000 metres for fillies, my ride here is SHIH TZOU who is trained by Michael Kent. This two year old filly is also by Zoustar and is having her first lifetime start. This looks to be a very strong edition of the Fillies Preview with five of her rivals having been to the races before and all are coming into this from different form lines. I have ridden SHIH TZOU recently in an official trial at Pakenham where she was professional and she showed me very good ability. She will start from the widest barrier and we will need some luck in running. If she produces her trial form on raceday, she will take a lot of beating in this.

Race 7 is the Ladbrokes Handicap over 2000 metres, my ride here is AL GALAYEL (IRE) who is trained by Ciaron Maher & David Eustace. I’ve ridden this five year old gelding by Zoffany (IRE) in his past two starts at Mooney Valley over 2040 metres and have been successful on him both times. He has been very well placed and carries 1.5 kilos above the minimum here. He is a horse that appreciates his races being spaced out and races here four weeks between runs, which is the same formula that saw him successful last time out. He is a horse that has a few tricks up his sleeve and even though he faces a small field here, it will be a tactical race. I expect he will have taken a great deal of confidence from his last start victory and if he has taken the improvement required, I am confident he can make it three wins on end.

Moonee Valley Preview

Tonight I’m riding at the Moonee Valley night meeting. The rail is out 3 metres and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 3 is the Crown Resorts VOBIS Gold Carat over 1200 metres, my ride here is JARMANAGIC who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This race is for three year old’s and is restricted to VOBIS Gold qualified horses only. I’ve ridden this gelding by Starspangledbanner twice, with both being in his first up runs in his last two campaigns. He was beaten when racing fresh last start at Sandown over 1300 metres by just over a length, finishing third. He drops back to 1200 metres here and meets Hawkshot, who finished second in that race better at the weights. JARMANAGIC is a horse that gets back in his races and needs luck in running but if he has luck throughout and things go his way, he will make his presence felt.

Sandown Preview

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

Race 5 is the Spicer Thoroughbreds Handicap over 2400 metres, my ride here is SO BELAFONTE who is trained by Dan O'Sullivan. I rode this five year old gelding by Medaglia d’Oro (USA) two starts ago on the Hillside course at Sandown over the same distance. He over-raced on that occasion and was gallant in his effort to finish in second placing, half a length behind the winner. His most recent start was at Geelong where he dropped back in distance and had the blinkers removed and ear muffs applied. He controlled the race at a slow tempo and looked to be more settled but obviously the stable feel he didn’t perform at his best as he has a gear change and will wear the ear muffs pre-race only with the blinkers staying off. He will start from a high barrier draw and if he can relax and conserve his energy and returns to his form from two starts ago, he will take a lot of beating in this.

Race 8 is The Big Screen Company BM78 Handicap over 2100 metres, my ride here is TEA FOR CHOUX (NZ) who is trained by Greg Eurell. She’s a five year old mare by Jimmy Choux (NZ) that is lightly raced having had only 16 starts in her career and she has won or placed in eight of those. She has had four runs this campaign and is stepping up to a distance range where she is very effective, having had two runs for a win and a second placing. She will start from a middle barrier and is a mare that races close to the speed and will give herself every opportunity to continue her solid form over the distance. She comes into this carrying half a kilo above the minimum and is one of the main chances.

Flemington Preview

Today I’m riding at Flemington. The rail is out 9 metres and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 2 is the Voting Opens Monday for All-Star Mile over 2500 metres, my ride here is PLEASURING who is trained by Darren Weir. This four year old mare by Hard Spun runs in the colours of Contract Racing. She has had three runs at this distance for a win and a third placing, with her win being in the Group 3 SA Fillies Classic at Morphettville after she finished fourth in the Oaks. Her last start effort at Moonee Valley signalled that she is finding that form again and if she does, with the minimum weight here of 54 kilos she can challenge the favourite, LYCURGUS.

Race 5 is the Inglis Dash over 1100 metres for three year olds, my ride here is THORONDOR who is trained by Robbie Laing. This colt by Fastnet Rock is raced by the Montague family and partners and wears the Montague Apple colours. On ratings and performance, he is clearly the best credentialed horse in the field and he is very well treated under the set weights and penalties conditions of this race. This will be my first ride on him and I’m looking forward to riding him. I have competed against him, as I beat him in the Group 2 Danehill Stakes at the same course over 1200 metres in the Spring. He is a well performed horse who has experience and good form racing over the straight course and if he brings his best form, he will be winning this.

Race 6 is a BM84 over 1400 metres, my ride here is KING’S COMMAND who is trained by Leon & Troy Corstens. This seven year old gelding by Commands is raced by Brad Spicer and partners. He races here on his rating of 84 and carries the top weight of 60 kilos. He has been racing very well without winning recently and it’s interesting to note that he won two races during the late Summer period last year. He has drawn an inside barrier and should gain an economical run in transit. This is a track and distance that really appreciates and races well at and with a record of 6: 2-1-1, he will take a lot of beating.

Race 7 is the Listed Kensington Stakes over 1000 metres, my ride here is CHAMPAGNE CUDDLES who is trained by Bjorn Baker. She is a four year old mare by Not a Single Doubt who is out of the Group 1 winning mare Sky Cuddle. She is the best performed horse in the field as she has competed in the highest grade of Group racing for the majority of her career. She races here first up for the campaign and has a good record when racing fresh as from her five attempts, she hasn’t missed a top three placing. She has trialled nicely at Warwick Farm in preparation for this race and I will be mindful that this will be her first attempt over the straight course. She is clearly the class runner of the field and based on her honest and consistent form in higher grade, she will be winning this.

Race 8 is the BM84 Bitalli Handicap over 1800 metres, my ride here is AMADEUS who is trained by Mick Kent. This six year old entire by Amadeus Wolf (GB) runs in the colours of Joan Walker. I’ve ridden him in all of his runs this preparation and we have finished first, second and third. This will be his first attempt over the 1800 metres and I have felt at his past two starts that he will appreciate racing on a bigger, more spacious track that Flemington provides. He has drawn a wide barrier and there looks to be a lot of pressure on paper and if they run along at a solid tempo it will be to his advantage. This is a strong field and if he runs out the distance he will be very competitive again.

Race 9 is the BM84 Victorian Owner Gold Card Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is INTUITION who is trained by James Cummings. This four year old gelding by Street Cry is raced by Godolphin. He has had 15 career starts for a record of five wins and two placings. He races here third up for the preparation following on from two very good runs in NSW. This will be his first start in Victoria and his first attempt over the straight course. He has drawn a high barrier and if the field goes to the outside fence having the rail on the right hand side will be of no disadvantage to him. If he handles the straight course he will take a lot of beating in this. 

Sandown Preview

Today I’m riding at Sandown where it’s a twilight meeting. We are racing on the Lakeside circuit with the rail in the true position and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 2 is the Blue Star Print Plate over 1200 metres, it’s a maiden race and my ride here is RONAN’S ROCK who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This three year old colt by Fastnet Rock is raced by Brad Spicer and partners. He had two runs in his first racing preparation before going for a spell and he resumes here. He stumbled out of the barriers badly at Caulfield in his first run, still managing to close off strongly to finish second behind Brutal. The form around Brutal is very strong with the colt remaining unbeaten in this three runs. RONAN’S ROCK then started favourite at today’s course and distance at his next run, where he pulled up lame and with a throat abnormality. I have ridden him in a jumpout in preparation for his return to racing where he gave me a solid feel in his work and he can make his presence felt in this. He has drawn a wide barrier and it will be interesting to see what my instructions are pre-race in this small but competitive field. He also has a cross-over noseband added to his head gear for the first time.

Race 5 is the BM70 Spicer Thoroughbreds Handicap over 1600 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is PURE SCOT who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. I rode this four year old mare by Purrealist last start at Flemington where she finished fourth in open BM70 grade. She goes up two kilos in weight from that run as she is returning to fillies and mares class here. This is a small field that has been further reduced by the scratching’s and she will face four other horses. There doesn’t look to be much pressure on paper and it will be a tactically run race. I’m looking forward to finding out what my instructions are pre-race as she is a horse that usually settles back in the field but has also been ridden close to the speed in a strong race at Caulfield, where she ran a very good race. I will have a good understanding of how the track is playing by this race and she is clearly one of the main chances.

Race 7 is the BM70 NJTcricket.com.au Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is TIN HAT who is trained by James Cummings. This three year old gelding by Helmet is raced by Godolphin. I’ve had two rides on him for two wins, with the most recent being last time out at Sandown on the Hillside track over 1300 metres where he was dominant when winning first up. He drops back in distance here, steps up in grade and drops 1 kilo from his most recent run. This field has been depleted by scratching’s and he comes into a more favourable barrier draw. He is a horse that races on speed and with natural improvement and confidence from his first up win, he will be the horse to run down.

Race 8 is the BM70 Mypunter.com Handicap over 2100 metres, my ride here is RIPPLEBROOK who is trained by Sharyn Trolove. He is a four year old gelding by Hinchinbrook that is raced by the Gray family. I rode him at his most recent run at Flemington where he was very unlucky, finishing just over six lengths from the winner. He is a big, strong horse and if we can utilise his stamina and have him racing on-speed, he will take a lot of running down. He reared as the barriers opened last start and subsequently ended up back in the field and was blocked a number of times in the straight, running extremely well with no luck. Hopefully today he can leave the barriers more efficiently and we can use his strengths to race on-speed and he will take a lot of beating in today’s race. 

Gold Coast Preview

Today I’m racing at the Gold Coast where it’s the Magic Millions raceday. It’s one of the richest raceday’s in the world with $10 million in prizemoney on offer and is restricted to horses purchased through a Magic Millions sale that have paid the entry fee for eligibility or won a wildcard race. There are capacity fields today and around this tight circuit favourable barriers and luck are an advantage. The rail is out 1.5 metres from the 1000 – 400 and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 1 is the PACIFIC FAIR MAGIC MILLIONS MAIDEN PLATE over 1200 metres for three year old’s and upwards, my ride here is ADDOCARR who is trained by Tony Gollan. This three year old gelding by Sizzling is raced by Joe O’Neill and partners. From his five lifetime starts he has placed four times only missing a top three placing once, when he finished fifth at the end of his last campaign. He has had three runs this preparation and has been beaten by a small margin in all of those. He won a recent official trial at Doomben in preparation for this and has the benefit of a low barrier draw, which suits his racing pattern of racing close to the speed. It would be terrific for him to win his maiden here as this race is worth $250,000 in prizemoney.

Race 3 is the RACING QUEENSLAND MAGIC MILLIONS QTIS OPEN over 1300 metres, my ride here is OURS TO KEEP who is trained by Chris Munce. He is a four year old gelding by Seidnazar that is raced by Mrs Munce. After racing over 1050 metres first up this preparation he stepped up in distance to 1200 metres and has been in good form, finishing second at his next run before winning last time out at Eagle Farm. He comes into this with confidence from his last start victory and carries the minimum weight of 54 kilos. He is a horse that races close to the speed and if we have luck and don’t have to do too much work from an outside barrier, he will take a lot of running down.

Race 4 is the SKY RACING MAGIC MILLIONS TROPHY over 2200 metres, my ride here is BENZINI who is trained by James Bull. This nine year old gelding by Tale of the Cat has been a regular visitor to Australia from his New Zealand base having raced in the country a number of times throughout his career. Most notably he finished third in last year’s Port Adelaide Cup at Listed grade and third in the Group 3 Lord Reims, also at Morphettville. He is also the Group 2 Brisbane Cup winner from 2016. He has had two runs this preparation in Melbourne where he has been racing well and will appreciate the step up in distance to the 2200 metres. From his eight runs over the distance he has a record of one win and three placings. He will start from a wide barrier here and is a horse that usually settles in the second half of the field and carries the light weight of 54.5 kilos. If he finds his best form he can really make his presence felt in this.

Race 6 is the MOËT & CHANDON MAGIC MILLIONS FILLIES & MARES over 1300 metres, 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. She started her racing career in Western Australia where she had excellent form, achieving multiple black type status. At her first run in Victoria she finished second at Group 2 level over 1400 metres as a three year old. She completed her next two campaigns racing in Victoria and Western Australia with her former trainer before changing into the care of the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. She looks to be a mare that races very well fresh and comes into this 8 weeks between runs, which should really suit her. She has drawn an inside barrier and as a three year old she was able to race on speed and be very competitive, while last preparation she was ridden back in the field, closing her races off strongly. It will be interesting to see what my instructions are pre-race from the favourable barrier. This is a highly competitive field and on her best form, she is the horse to beat.

Race 8 is the feature race of the day, THE STAR GOLD COAST $2M MAGIC MILLIONS 2YO CLASSIC over 1200 metres, my ride here is CHAMPAGNE BOOM who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. She is a filly by Spirit of Boom that I know well having ridden her in all three of her race starts. She was very impressive at her debut run where she came from off the speed, displaying great acceleration to win in dominant fashion at Caulfield. Her next run was at Flemington on Melbourne Cup day and after torrential rain I felt, even though she was only beaten by 0.3 lengths, she wasn’t able to quicken on the soft ground and the track stopped her showing the same turn of foot she displayed first up. She then went to Wyong in preparation for this race, it is a tight turning track that is similar to the Gold Coast and was her first start going right handed. After suffering interreference at the beginning of the race she settled last and finished the race off nicely. I felt she would take further fitness benefit from that run as she was five weeks between runs. If she shows the same acceleration and performance as her first up run at Caulfield, she will really challenge this race.

Race 9 is the WOODFORD RESERVE MAGIC MILLIONS CUP over 1400 metres, my ride here is REDOUBLE who is trained by Bjorn Baker. He is a five year old gelding by Redoute’s Choice who has won or been placed in 50% of his race starts. He is a very consistent galloper who is in great form this preparation and hasn’t finished further back than fourth from his four runs. He comes into this a last start winner over the same distance and is a very fit horse. He also has blinkers added to his head gear again. If we are able to utilise the favourable barrier draw and he is still able to accelerate at the end of the race he will take a lot of beating. He also has the advantage of carrying the minimum weight of 54 kilos which is a big weight drop given the weights he has been carrying this preparation.

Caulfield Preview

Today I’m racing at Caulfield where it’s a twilight meeting. The rail is out 12 metres and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 3 is the BM64 Ladbrokes Multiverse Handicap over 1600 metres for three year old’s, my ride here is EUGENE’S FOREST who is trained by Greg Eurell. This gelding by Reset has had five lifetime starts with a record of one win and two third placings. He has been racing consistently throughout his career and makes his own luck in running by racing close to the speed. He comes into this fourth up for this preparation and has drawn a favourable barrier. He is stepping up in distance and the rail placement of being out 12 metres should help his racing style. This is a small but competitive field and I expect he can make his presence felt.

Race 5 is the BM70 Ladbrokes Info Hub Handicap over 2420 metres, my ride here is HIGH SIERRA (NZ) who is trained by Luke Oliver. This five year old mare by Redwood is raced by Grand Syndicates. I’ve ridden her twice last preparation where we finished third at Ballarat and fourth at Geelong on rain affected tracks. She is adaptable and races well on all surfaces and will be at peak fitness having had four runs this campaign. She is stepping up to this distance for the first time and based on her last start effort over 2200 metres, it is a distance that should suit her. She meets CHARLTON again here and comes in better at the weights than him. With the benefit of carrying the minimum of 54 kilos here and if she can find her best form, she will be competitive again.

Race 7 is the BM70 Ladbrokes Cash Out Handicap over 1440 metres, my ride here is FREE FLY TOO who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This four year old gelding by Teofilo is raced by Eric Wong. I won his maiden on him in 2017 and also rode him last preparation where we finished fourth in a strong three year old handicap race over 1600 metres at Moonee Valley. I have ridden him in a jumpout in preparation for his first up run this campaign and was pleased with the feel he gave me. This is a highly competitive benchmark race and with luck from a tricky barrier draw, I am sure he will make his presence felt.

Race 8 is the BM70 Ladbrokes Odds Boost Exotics Hcp over 2000 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is QUEEN LEONORA (NZ) who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This four year old mare by Savabeel is raced by Waikato Stud and partners. I’ve ridden her in her past two starts with both being at Moonee Valley. Two starts ago she raced in fillies and mares BM84 grade over 1600 metres, finishing fourth and was just over a length from the winner. She then dropped back to BM70 grade, again in fillies and mares company and stepped up in distance to the 2000 metres for the first time, where she finished second. She should gain a favourable run from an inside barrier and will take a lot of beating in this.

Caulfield Preview

Today I’m racing at Caulfield. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated in the good range. There is rain predicted throughout the afternoon so it will be interesting to see if it arrives and how it alters the track conditions. There has been a lot of debate recently about the way tracks are prepared to race in Victoria in regards to having them with a bit more give in the Summer months and I’m looking forward to walking the track today and seeing how it may play.

Race 2 is the BM64 Dale Foenander Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is LEILA’S STAR who is trained by Peter Chow. She’s a four year old mare by Bel Esprit that is named after a family member in recognition of The Leila Rose Foundation. I’ve ridden her once earlier in her career at Moonee Valley where she didn’t handle the circuit. Having watched her recent replays, she has really matured and developed as a racehorse and is in career best form this preparation. From her four runs this campaign she hasn’t finished further back than third placing and comes into this off very solid runs. She finds herself well placed in this BM64 race and has the benefit of a weight allowance for being a mare. She has drawn a low barrier and will gain an economical run in transit from the draw. Tactically she is able to race close to the speed, being able to take advantage of the gate and will make her presence felt.

Race 3 is the BM70 Donya Van Pampus Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is MAGNESIUM ROSE who is trained by Matthew Lindsay. She’s a four year old mare by Magnus that I’ve ridden to success in a previous preparation at the track. She has good statistics at the distance as from her six career starts over the 1200 she has only been out of the top three placings twice. She races here second up following on from an excellent first up run at Moonee Valley. She drops back in grade here and will be five weeks between runs. She will start from an inside barrier and is the horse they all have to beat.

Race 4 is the BM78 Richard Cotter Handicap over 1600 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is VITANI who is trained by Wendy Kelly. She’s a four year old mare by Animal Kingdom that I know well, having ridden her regularly throughout her career and I won her maiden on her at Sandown. She is a filly that I’ve always thought her performances could warrant to be of stakes class ability. She is building a progressive record and from her nine starts has only been out of the top three on two occasions. Last time out at Moonee Valley we had no luck in running over the same distance, finishing in fourth place. I feel she appreciated the soft track conditions last time out and her chances will further be enhanced here if the rain arrives. I like that she is carrying the minimum weight of 54 kilos but she has unfortunately drawn an outside barrier. Assuming she will be ridden quietly from the draw, the light weight will give her every opportunity to show her good acceleration and if the track is racing evenly and the race is run to suit her, she will be finishing off strongly over the concluding stages.

Race 5 is the BM84 In Memory of Aila Hinton-Tooley Hcp over 1100 metres, my ride here is QUEEN ANNABEL who is trained by Rebecca Kelly. I’ve ridden this five year old mare by Bel Esprit twice last campaign for a win and a third placing. We had the advantage of having favourable runs and I had to work with her to help her to relax and travel kindly for me in those races. This will be my first ride on her this preparation and she races here fifth up. Having watched her replays, she looks like she has matured and is able to close her races off more effectively and she has been racing in consistent form against quality opposition. She has drawn a wide barrier in a race where there looks to be a lot of pressure, if I can get it right with her and and things go her way, she will be winning this.

Race 6 is the BM84 Nicholas Rehfisch Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is AMADEUS who is trained by Michael Kent. This six year old entire by Amadeus Wolf (GB) runs in the colours of Joan Walker. I’ve ridden him at his last two starts, winning on him at Pakenham before running second at this track over 1400 metres. He drops down in grade here and goes up in weight. He has drawn the inside barrier and will gain an economical run from the draw. He is a horse that will appreciate any give in the track, should the forecast rain arrive. He is racing in great form and will take a lot of beating in this.

Race 7 is the BM78 Peter Missen Handicap over 2000 metres, my ride here is CREEDENCE who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. I rode this four year old gelding by Helmet for the first time last start at Flemington where we were disappointed for a run at the top of the straight, he made good ground finishing in fourth placing, two lengths behind the winner. His form this preparation has been excellent and this will be his sixth run for the campaign. He has drawn to gain an economical run from the barrier and without knowing my instructions yet, I hope we can utilise the favourable draw. He stays at the same distance as last start and meets three of the same horses that contested that race better at the weights. With his good form and the advantage of a favourable barrier, I feel he will take a lot of beating in this.

Race 9 is the BM84 Alicia White Handicap over 1100 metres, my ride here is DEMOLITION who is trained by James Cummings. This five year old gelding by Street Cry is raced by Godolphin. He comes into this third up, his two runs this preparation have seen him finish second on both occasions, at Moonee Valley over 1200 metres and then Flemington over 1000. He is racing extremely well this campaign and he looks well placed here and is the horse to beat. 

Geelong Preview

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

Race 1 is the Bet365 SV 2YO Fillies Maiden Plate over 1125 metres, my ride here is LA TENE who is trained by James Cummings. This daughter of Helmet is out of the Group 3 winning mare in Celts, is having her first lifetime start and is raced by Godolphin. This is a small field of fillies having their debut runs with only two of her rivals having been to the races before. She has had a jumpout at Werribee and I’ve ridden her in a jumpout at Flemington in preparation for this. She showed nice speed and was very professional when I rode her. She has drawn a wide barrier here and it will be interesting to see how she handles the raceday conditions and pressure, but if she displays the same professionalism as when I rode her in her jumpout, it will hold her in good stead for this.

Race 7 is the Batman Management Group Bellarine Cup BM64 Handicap over 1733 metres, my ride here is ROCK DOVE who is trained by James Cummings. She’s a three year old filly by Epaulette that is also raced by Godolphin. She is a lightly raced filly taking on the older horses here today with the favourite, who beat us home last start at Moonee Valley, the only other three year old filly in the race. I felt my horse didn’t appreciate the soft ground at Moonee Valley last start as she travelled well but failed to quicken. That was my first ride on her and she was stepping up to BM64 grade after winning her maiden the start prior. If she brings her form from last start and appreciates being back on top of the ground today, she might be able to turn the tables on the favourite.

Sandown Preview

Today I’m racing at Sandown on the Hillside circuit. The rail is out 12 metres and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 3 is the BM64 Ladbrokes Handicap over 1500 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is CRYPTIC JEWEL (NZ) who is trained by Brent Stanley. She’s a lightly raced four year old mare by Savabeel and from her five lifetime starts has a record of one win and one placing. I’ve ridden her in both of her runs this preparation, she put in a good effort first up over 1200 metres at Moonee Valley, before going on to win her maiden in dominant fashion at her next start at Caulfield over 1440 metres. I feel the long straight on the Hillside circuit will be to her advantage and with confidence from her last start victory she is the horse to beat.

Race 4 is the BM64 Mypunter.com Handicap over 2400 metres, my ride here is SO BELAFONTE who is trained by Dan O'Sullivan. This five year old gelding by Medaglia d’Oro (USA) started his career off in South Australia before being transferred to Dan O’Sullivan. He won two starts ago over 2150 metres and at his first attempt over this distance was keen in running when leading the field and was beaten by just under four lengths last time out. With the benefit of a run over the distance I hope he can settle a bit more here today as he has drawn a wide barrier and there looks to be a lot of pressure on paper. If I can get him to settle and conserve his energy he will be competitive in this.

Race 5 is the BM64 Clanbrooke Racing Handicap over 1800 metres, my ride here is SHAQ (NZ) who is trained by Brent Stanley. This five year old gelding by Savabeel races in the colours of Cloud 9 Thoroughbreds. I rode him at his most recent start over the same distance at Caulfield where he finished second. He races well over this distance range as from his five starts he hasn’t missed a top three placing and has won at the track. I was instructed that he is a horse that needs his run timed to perfection, so that he doesn’t get to the front too early as he waits for other horses. We were momentarily held up last time out when he finished second to the promising Tavistock Dancer (NZ) and I was pleased with the feel he gave me to the line. He has drawn a middle barrier and if we can gain a nice run in behind the speed and he has a horse to follow for as long as possible, he will take a lot of beating in this. I feel I understand his racing pattern a lot better for having ridden him last time out and that will help me to get the best out of him today.

Race 7 is the BM64 Araza Handicap over 1300 metres for three year olds, my ride here is JARMANAGIC who is trained by Danny O'Brien. He is a lightly raced gelding by Starspangledbanner who has had eight starts for a win and third placing. I have had one ride on him at the start of his last preparation where he resumed on soft ground, he started favourite on that day finishing in fourth place and was beaten by just over two lengths. His only win has been over this distance on the synthetic surface at Geelong. He races first up here and has trialled nicely at Cranbourne in preparation for this and his recent jumpout at Werribee, where he finished behind subsequent Flemington winner in Poised To Strike, looks good form for this. This is a very competitive race and if the track is racing evenly and he has some luck from the draw he will make his presence felt.

Race 8 is the BM64 The Big Screen Company Handicap over 1300 metres, my ride here is TIN HAT who is trained by James Cummings. This three year old gelding by Helmet is raced by Godolphin. He is lightly raced and from his five career starts has only been out of the top three placings twice. He races first up here and has jumped out very well in preparation for this and was sharp in a Flemington jumpout last Friday. He should get every favour from his barrier and will take a lot of beating in this race.

Flemington Preview

Wishing all of my supporters a Happy New Year and a safe and successful 2019.

Today I’m racing at Flemington where it’s the traditional meeting on New Year’s Day. The rail is out three metres and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 1 is the New Year Plate over 1000 metres for two year old fillies, my ride here is the first starter ITALIAN WITNESS who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. She is by Star Witness out of the mare Italian Alps and is raced by Ultra Racing. I’ve ridden her in two jumpouts and she has pleased me on both occasions. The stable has a good opinion of her and if she brings her jumpout form to the races she will be the horse to beat. She feels like she has a lot of scope and is a strong filly with plenty of upside and reminds me of Catchy.

Race 2 is the Summer Racing Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is BEACON who is trained by James Cummings. He is a four year old gelding by Lonhro that is raced by Godolphin. His last start effort was better than it reads on paper as we lost our position and got shuffled back through the field and should have finished closer. He now steps up to 1400 metres which is a distance that he should be suited by and in this small but competitive field he will be one of the main chances.

Race 5 is the BM70 George Watson Handicap over 2000 metres, my ride here is RIPPLEBROOK who is trained by Sharyn Trolove. This four year old gelding by Hinchinbrook races in the Gray family colours. Mr Gray helped me when I was in the initial stages of my apprenticeship in giving me opportunities when he was training horses, so I’m looking forward to the opportunity to repay the favours that he showed me all those years ago. RIPPLEBROOK comes into this a last start winner at the same distance and is stepping up in grade here. He looks to be a solid and strong galloper who can hopefully make it two from two over the 2000 metres.

Race 6 is the Group 3 Standish Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is CALL ME HANDSOME (IRE) who is trained by Peter Gelagotis. This six year old gelding by Kodiac (GB) runs in the colours of trainer David Hall, who is now training in Hong Kong. I rode him to win his last start over 1700 metres at Caulfield in Listed grade before he went for a spell and have ridden him in a recent jumpout in preparation for his first up run today. He is going extremely well and is a very consistent horse that has had 15 starts and only missed the top three placings on one occasion. This will be his first test in Group 3 company and I am confident he will take this in his stride and go onto better races. He doesn’t know how to run a bad race and will be one of the main chances in this.

Race 7 is the Listed Bagot Handicap over 2800 metres, my ride here is ETYMOLOGY who is trained by James Cummings. This six year old gelding by New Approach (IRE) is raced by Godolphin. He is a horse that loves racing at Flemington and has a great record at the course. He won last time out here with the same weight over 2500 metres and it looks like the step up in distance will also be in his favour as he placed second at his only attempt over the distance in the St Ledger. He has drawn a middle barrier and based on his last start effort and statistics at the track, he is the horse they all have to beat.

Race 8 is the BM70 Head Wind Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is PURE SCOT who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This four year old mare by Purrealist finished second last time out at Bendigo in BM78 grade and drops back to BM70 here. She has been racing very consistently this preparation and won first up at the start of this campaign. She has drawn a wide barrier and with some luck from the draw, will be one of the main chances.

Moonee Valley Preview

Today I’m racing at Moonee Valley. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated in the good range. The rail is in the same position as the last meeting seven days ago when we received a lot of rain and I’m looking forward to walking the track to see how it has recovered and how it may race throughout the day.

Race 1 is the Punters.com.au Plate over 1200 metres for two year olds, my ride here is MAKTABBA who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. I rode this daughter of Per Incanto (USA) at her debut run at the same track over 1000 metres on December 7^th. She started favourite on that occasion and was ridden quietly from an outside barrier. She stayed on very well and I feel the extra distance will suit her. Her effort was further enhanced with the pattern of racing at that meeting showing no horses won from being ridden off the speed. She has the addition of ear-muffs pre-race to help her stay relaxed and it will be interesting to see the natural improvement she has taken. She has unfortunately drawn a wide barrier again and although I haven’t received my instructions yet, it is likely that she will be giving them a head start. She has very good ability and I like the feel she gave me on debut. Providing she has taken natural improvement and the track is racing evenly, I expect her to be finishing off strongly.

Race 2 is The Junction Club Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is LYNCH MOB who is trained by Tony McEvoy. He’s a five year old gelding by Wanted that is lightly raced and has a record of 17 starts for two wins and eight placings. His first up effort was pleasing at Caulfield where he resumed over the same distance and was closing off well for third place. He is a horse that generally doesn’t show any speed from the barriers and takes some time to muster speed. This race looks like it maps well for him with a good amount of speed and I expect him to be one of the main chances.

Race 3 is the BM70 $99 Summer Membership Handicap over 1200 metres for three year old fillies, my ride here is SORA who is trained by Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This daughter of I Am Invincible is lightly raced having had two lifetime starts. She made her debut in a city race that I won on My Pendant, who has since won her next two starts, so the stable must have a high opinion of her. Sora won her next start at the same track and distance as today where she produced a dominant effort when racing on speed. There looks to be a lot of pressure on paper and this race will be run at a fast pace. With confidence and experience from her last start win she is the horse to beat.

Race 4 is the BM70 Ladbrokes Handicap over 1000 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is CARIBBEAN PEARL who is trained by Mark Young. She’s a four year old daughter of Barbados that wears the colours of Rosemont Stud. She has been very competitive throughout her career and has run bold races in stronger company than this. I like the fact she is dropping back in distance as she looks to get a bit keen in her races. It will be my first ride on her and I’m looking forward to riding her over the short course from an inside barrier draw. There looks to be a good amount of pressure and speed on paper and she should get an economical run and can make her presence felt.

Race 5 is the BM70 Dean & McPherson Catering Handicap over 1600 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is ROSSO ANTICO who is trained by Stephen Lenehan. She’s a six year old mare by Gallo Di Ferro (USA) that finished second two starts ago at Sandown in BM64 grade to Zou York who is the favourite in an earlier race today, so we will have an indication if the form is going to measure up before she runs. She then dropped back to 58 grade at Colac and produced a dominant effort to win by over two lengths last start. She steps back up in grade here, carries two kilos off the minimum and has confidence from her last start win. If she can utilise her inside barrier as she races close to the speed, I feel she can make her presence felt as this is not an overly strong BM70 race. 

Race 6 is the Events @ The Valley Handicapover 2040 metres, my ride here is AL GALAYEL (IRE) who is trained by Ciaron Maher & David Eustace. He’s an imported five year old gelding by Zoffany (IRE) that hasn’t run a bad race since arriving to Australia. I had my first ride on him last time out at the same course and distance and his winning effort was full of merit. He goes up in grade here but drops two kilos in weight and will carry half a kilo above the minimum. This is a small and competitive field but based on his last start effort, he is the horse to beat.

Race 7 is the BM78 New Year’s Eve at Legends Handicap 2500 metres, my ride here is STORMY SHORE who is trained by Ken Fythe. She is a seven year old mare by Bramshaw that comes into this race with a gear change of the ear-muffs being removed at her first attempt over the extended distance. She is a mare that can get keen in running and it is important that I can get her to relax and conserve her energy. She has been finishing her races off nicely and her trainer is confident that she is now looking for this distance at this stage of her career.

Race 9 is a handicap over 1000 metres, my ride here is THERMAL CURRENT who is trained by Darren Weir. This eight year old gelding by Exceed And Excel is raced by Contract Racing and partners. He has been racing in excellent form this preparation and won a Listed race at Flemington over the carnival. He is horse that gets back and settles off speed, needing luck in running and there looks to be a good amount of speed in this race which will suit him. If the track is playing favourably for horses to run on and things go his way, he can win this and I’m really looking forward to riding him as he is racing in very good form. 

Caulfield Preview

Today I’m racing at Caulfield where it’s the Boxing Day meeting. The rail is out six metres and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 2 is the BM70 Joe Brown Handicap over 1100 metres, my ride here is Redcore who is trained by Greg Eurell. This four year old gelding by Choisir is raced by Lionel Krongold and partners. He races here third up and on his best form, will be winning this. He has drawn the outside barrier and will need some luck in running. There looks to be a good amount of pressure and speed on paper and the quicker the field travels the more likely they are to spread out and I can find a nice position. He is a horse that appreciates a strong tempo where he can finish off strongly over the concluding stages.

Race 3 is the BM84 Dennis Hanrahan Handicap over 1400 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is Flying Krupt who is trained by Phillip Stokes. This four year old mare by Krupt is in excellent form this preparation having won her past two races. This will be her fourth run this campaign and her first run in Melbourne for the preparation. Although this is her first attempt at the 1400, she was strong through the line last time out over 1300 and it looks like the extra distance will be of no disadvantage to her. It is a small but competitive field and if she continues her consistent form she can make it three wins in a row.

Race 4 is the Frank O'Brien Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is Lord Tennyson who is trained by Peter Chow. He’s a six year old gelding by Written Tycoon that has been racing well without winning, I rode him to his last win which was in June 2017 and have won two races on him. This is his favourite distance and he has only raced at this track once previously so it’s hard to draw a comparison on track statistics for him. He has come up with a nice inside barrier and on his best form will be one of the main chances.

Race 5 is the Ken Sturt Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is Amadeus who is trained by Michael Kent. He’s a six year old entire by Amadeus Wolf (GB) that is raced by Joan Walker and partners. I’ve ridden this horse consistently throughout his career and have really enjoyed being a part of his development, especially winning the VOBIS Gold Bullion at his last start at Pakenham on Cup Day. He comes into this with confidence from his last start victory, the inside barrier, staying at the same distance and drops 4 kilos in weight. He looks well placed here and is the horse to beat.

Race 6 is the Listed MRC Lord Stakes over 1700 metres, my ride here is Shoreham who is trained by Saab Hasan. He’s a nine year old gelding by Reset that has been a grand campaigner throughout his career, winning five races from 66 starts and amassing over three quarters of a million dollars. He hasn’t won for some time with his last win being the Group 3 Easter Cup where he won at big odds. He will be the outsider in this field and it’s an interesting race as he will be racing against six horses and there is no speed on paper, so it will be a tactical affair. My horse has blinkers added to his head gear again and hopefully it helps him to return to his best form.

Race 7 is the Listed Ladbrokes Christmas Stakes over 1200 metres, my ride here is Native Soldier who is trained by Darren Weir. He’s a three year old colt by Sepoy that is taking on the older horses here. He comes into this second up for this preparation and I had my first ride on him last start at Flemington where he raced over the straight course and was beaten by just over 1.5 lengths. He has a good record at Caulfield and is a dual Group winner around the circuit. I expect he will have taken a good amount of natural improvement from his first up effort and will take a lot of beating in this.

Race 8 is the BM78 Ladbrokes Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is Critical Thinking who is trained by Brent Stanley. This five year old gelding by So You Think (NZ) is raced by Cloud 9 Racing and partners. He has been racing in excellent form this preparation and he comes into this with confidence from his last start win over 1440 metres. He is racing on a seven day turn around that saw him produce a solid effort at the track last week, he steps up in grade but drops in weight. He has drawn a wide barrier and we will need luck throughout the early stages. He is racing in great form and if he maintains that will be very competitive.

Flemington Preview

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

Race 1 is the BM70 Santa's Workshop Plate over 1400 metres for three year old fillies, my ride here is MY PENDANT (NZ) who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This daughter of Pins is raced by Waikato Stud and partners. I’ve ridden her at her past two starts where she has won both over 1200 metres and she now steps up in distance to the 1400 for the first time. I have been very impressed with her performances, at her most recent start at Moonee Valley she settled at the rear of the field and produced a dominant effort to circle the field and win by an official margin of 1.25 lengths. I feel the step up in distance will suit her and this race is a nice stepping stone for her going forward, as she has shown above average ability. I’m looking forward to riding her on the spacious and flat Flemington track and she is the horse to beat.

Race 2 is the BM70 Christmas Raceday Trophy over 1200 metres, my ride here is POISED TO STRIKE who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This three year old gelding by Akeed Mofeed (GB) is raced by Goldin Farms. He had three starts last preparation in Adelaide resulting in a win, a second and fourth placing. I have ridden him in two recent jumpouts in preparation for his first up assignment and have been very impressed with the way that he is going. This will be his first time racing over the straight course, but if he produces the same form from his jumpouts, he will be winning this.

Race 3 is the BM84 Nominate Now for the All-Star Mile over 1600 metres, my ride here is DIAMOND BOW who is trained by Wendy Kelly. I won on her at the end of her last preparation over 1400 metres at Geelong when racing on a heavy track. First up this preparation we had no luck and things didn’t go to plan at Cranbourne. She was slow away from the barriers on that day, as she can be, and had to work the whole way out wide to make ground, she did too much work and finished last. She looks to have found her good form again and her most recent effort at Sandown, with an apprentice riding her, was a good effort. She steps up in distance here, carries the minimum weight and will start from the inside barrier. She is a mare that gets back in running but she won’t have to give up any ground from the barrier. This is not an overly strong BM84 and I expect she can make her presence felt if she runs up to her best form.

Race 4 is the Happy Holidays Handicap over 2500 metres, my ride here is ONCIDIUM RULER who is trained by Michael Kent. I’ve ridden this seven year old gelding by Strategic to victory last year when winning at Moonee Valley over the same distance. He races third up here and should be close to peak fitness with runs over 1600 and 2040 metres this campaign. He has drawn a wide barrier and carrying 2.5 kilos above the minimum, I expect he will be closing the race off strongly over the concluding stages.

Race 5 is the BM64 VRC Christmas Donation Appeal Trophy over 1400 metres, my ride here is FALLEN EMPIRE who is trained by Mathew Ellerton & Simon Zahra. This four year old gelding by Smart Missile is raced by First Light Racing. He is racing on a seven day turn around after racing here last Saturday and is stepping up in distance to the 1400 for the first time. I’ve been impressed with him after watching his replays and I’m looking forward to having my first ride on him. He is a consistent horse that has never finished worse than fifth in his five starts to date, with four of those seeing him finish in the top three. He looks to be a very progressive horse and I expect he can win this on his way to better races.

Race 6 is the BM84 Festive Season Sprint over 1000 metres, my ride here is DEMOLITION who is trained by James Cummings. He’s a five year old gelding by Street Cry (IRE) that is raced by Godolphin. He races here second up and is dropping back in distance. This will be his first attempt racing over the straight course at Flemington. He is a horse that has a racing pattern of settling at the rear of the field but I expect him to show his class here today and be finishing off strongly with a good turn of foot. This is a strong field but on his best form he will be one of the main chances.

Race 7 is the BM84 Yuletide Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is PORTMAN (NZ) who is trained by Danny O'Brien. He’s a six year old gelding by Makfi (GB) that I know well and have ridden regularly throughout his career when he was owned by Qatar Bloodstock. I rode him in a recent jumpout at Werribee and was pleased with the feel he gave me. The soft track conditions will be to his liking and if he finds his best form he can figure in the finish.

Race 8 is the BM78 Summer On The Lawn Handicap over 2000 metres, my ride here is CREEDENCE who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. He’s a four year old gelding by Helmet that is lightly raced and from his 11 starts has a record of two wins and four placings. He has really matured this preparation and is racing very consistently, at his last three starts he has won and been narrowly beaten twice. He has drawn a wide barrier and has a versatile racing pattern and can be ridden on or off speed. He is in great form and looks well placed here where he will carry 1.5 kilos above the minimum. I feel with luck in running he can add a third win to his name.

Race 9 is the BM78 Merry Christmas VRC Members Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is BEACON who is trained by James Cummings. This four year old gelding by Lonhro is raced by Godolphin. He is a lightly raced consistent galloper that always runs well and from his 11 starts has a record of two wins and five placings. His most recent run was at the end of the Spring Carnival where he finished just over 4.5 lengths behind Order Of Command, who is one of the favourites in an earlier race today. Beacon comes into this six weeks between runs and I rode him in a recent jumpout at Werribee in preparation for this assignment, where he went extremely well. He has drawn an outside barrier so it will be interesting to see how the track is racing throughout the day. On his recent form and the way he jumped out at Werribee, he will be one of the main chances. 

Moonee Valley Preview

Tonight I’m racing at the Moonee Valley night meeting. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated in the good range. There are showers forecast throughout the evening and I’m looking to walking the track to see how it will race.

Race 1 is the Daemco Plate over 1200 metres, my ride here is VICTORY KINGDOM who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. She’s a three year old filly by Animal Kingdom that is having her first race start and wears the colours of Team Valor. Although I haven’t ridden her in a jumpout, I have ridden against her at a set of recent jumpouts as she prepared for this. She looked to show nice ability and did everything correctly. If she brings her professional attitude and can produce the same ability she displayed in her heat, she will take a lot of beating.

Race 2 is the Salt&Pepper Homewares Plate over 1600 metres, my ride here is NECESSITAS (NZ) who is trained by Mathew Ellerton & Simon Zahra. She’s a three year old filly by Zacinto (GB) who is having her fifth lifetime start. She has solid form and has been consistent throughout her career. Her strong grounding as a two year old should hold her in good stead for this campaign and her future racing. She started favourite in her first up run at Cranbourne this preparation where she was beaten by less than a length. She steps up in distance here and from a middle barrier will be able to settle where she is comfortable in running. I feel she will be one of the main chances in this race.

Race 3 is the BM64 Ladbrokes Handicap over 1500 metres for three year old fillies, my ride here is ROCK DOVE who is trained by James Cummings. This daughter of Epaulette is raced by Godolphin. She comes into this race with confidence from her last start victory at Cranbourne where she had blinkers applied to her head gear for the first time and produced a dominant effort. She comes through the same race as NECESSITAS who I am riding in race 2, so it will be interesting to see how she performs and if she can frank the form. Rock Dove has drawn an inside barrier and with confidence from her last start win, and the fitness benefit of racing third up for her preparation, will be one of the main chances.

Race 4 is the Bertocchi Magical Kingdom Handicap over 1500 metres, my ride here is TAVISOCKS (NZ) who is trained by Luke Oliver. This four year old mare by Tavistock (NZ) is raced by Grand Syndicates. This will be my first ride on her, she looks well placed in this distance range as having watched her replays, she looked to be over-racing at her most recent runs over 1900 metres. She has drawn a good barrier and should gain an economical run in transit. In this small but competitive race, based on her best form she can make her presence felt.

Race 6 is the BM64 Xtreme Freight Handicap over 2500 metres, my ride here is MAN ALIVE (NZ) who is trained by Archie Alexander. This four year old gelding is by Reliable Man (GB) and is raced by Robert McClure and partners. He is lightly raced having had four starts and has only missed a top three placing once. Although this will be my first ride on him, I have been impressed by his replays. He is a progressive horse that based on his breeding will appreciate the step up in distance to the 2500. He has a good racing style as he races close to the speed and should be suited around the circuit. He has drawn favourably and will gain an economical run at his first time over the extended distance and he should take a lot of beating.

Race 8 is the Crown Resorts Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is CINCINNATI RED (NZ) who is trained by Leon & Troy Corstens. She’s a four year old mare by Reset who always runs a good race and has a record of 10 starts for one win and five placings. She has been in great form at her two runs this preparation when winning first up at Geelong and then finishing second at Sandown. She has drawn a wide barrier and if we have luck from the draw and she maintains her good form, I expect her to be the horse to beat. 

Caulfield Preview

Today I’m racing at Caulfield where it’s a twilight meeting. The rail is out 12 metres and the track is rated in the good range. This is the first meeting on the track since the Caulfield Cup Carnival and I’m looking forward to walking the track and seeing how it races throughout the day.

Race 2 is the Ladbrokes Plate over 1440 metres, it’s a maiden for three year old’s and upwards. My ride here is CRYPTIC JEWEL (NZ) who is trained by Brent Stanley. This four-year-old mare by Savabeel races second up for the preparation here and is having her fifth career start. I rode her in her first up run at Moonee Valley over 1200 metres and she now steps up in distance which will really suit her. She has drawn an inside barrier and in this small but competitive field, I feel if she has taken natural improvement coming into this, she will be hard to beat.

Race 8 is a BM64 handicap over 1600 metres my ride here is SHAQ (NZ) who is trained by Brent Stanley. This five year old gelding by Savabeel has raced consistently throughout his career and has a record of four wins and nine placings from his 30 starts. He has had five runs this campaign and drops back in distance to the mile from 2040 metres. This is his favourite distance range as from his four starts at the distance he hasn’t missed a top three placing. He has drawn a middle barrier and is a horse that can settle in the first half of the field. On his recent solid form and with a small amount of luck in running, he can win this. 

Flemington Preview

Today I’m racing at Flemington. The rail is out 10 metres and the track is rated in the soft range.

Race 1 is the SecondBite Plate over 1100 metres for two year olds, my ride here is MOVIE ROLE who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. She’s very well bred being by Fastnet Rock and out of the mare Aspen Falls (USA), making her a full sister to Irish Lights who won the Group 1 Thousand Guineas. Her most recent jumpout was at Werribee on Monday where she wore blinkers and made all the running and was solid through the line in her heat. She comes into her debut run without blinkers and will wear winkers instead. She has drawn a high barrier in a small field which is usually not a disadvantage when racing over the straight course. This will be my first time riding her and I’m looking forward to seeing how she presents pre-race and performs under raceday pressure for the first time.

Race 2 is the BM70 Sports Environment Alliance Handicap over 1400 metres for three year olds, my ride here is REALLY SWISH who is trained by Leon & Troy Corstens. He is a colt by Real Saga who has had 10 career starts and has won or placed in half of those. He comes into this with confidence from his last start win at Sandown over 1600 metres and drops back in distance here. He has drawn a middle barrier and with the confidence from winning his maiden last start and his overall good form, he is capable of winning this competitive race.

Race 3 is the BM84 VRC Employee Volunteer Program Trophy over 1720 metres, my ride here is ETYMOLOGY who is trained by James Cummings. This six year old gelding by New Approach (IRE) is raced by Godolphin. He has a great affinity with this track as from his four starts here he has finished second on three occasions. He ran extremely well here three starts ago where he finished second when racing in BM90 grade over 2000 metres. He then returned to Sydney for his next two runs with his most recent run which was last Saturday, looking a plain effort on face value. On his best form and on his Flemington form, in this small field he can be one of the main chances. He also has the advantage of racing well on rain affected track conditions, so should any further rain arrive throughout the day it won’t be a disadvantage to him.

Race 6 is the BM70 VRC Schools Program Trophy over 1720 metres, my ride here is LORICAIN who is trained by Symon Wilde. This race is restricted to three and four year olds only. Loricain is a four year old mare by Americain (USA) that is lightly raced and from her four lifetime starts has won twice and placed once. She comes into this race with confidence after a dominant effort last start at Warrnambool where she won by seven lengths when racing on soft ground. I rode her younger sister over the carnival and I’m looking forward to riding this mare today. She has drawn a low barrier in this competitive race and with the benefit of confidence from her last start win and the soft track conditions in her favour, she will be one of the main chances.

Race 7 is the Saddle Up School Holiday Program Sprint over 1100 metres, my ride here is NATIVE SOLDIER who is trained by Darren Weir. He is a three year old colt by Sepoy that is taking on the older horses here. He has excellent form and is a dual Group 3 winner from last preparation where he won the McNeil Stakes and Guineas Prelude. He is a horse that races on speed and has previously raced over the straight course, he pulled up with a vet issue after that run and still produced a good effort to be beaten by only 2.15 lengths. He has drawn a high barrier and although he has raced once on a soft track, his best form has been on a firmer surface. He races first up here and is on a path towards the Magic Millions three year old race in January. I’m looking forward to having my first ride on him as he is a talented colt that will be prominent in the three year old races throughout the Summer and Autumn months.

Race 8 is the BM78 Make-A-Wish Australia Trophy over 2540 metres, my ride here is EARTH ANGEL who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. She’s a four year old daughter of Animal Kingdom (USA) out of the mare Miss Finland. Miss Finland was a horse I had great success on as she was champion two and three year old and she also won the Golden Slipper and VRC Crown Oaks. This will be my first ride on Earth Angel and she will be at peak fitness having had three runs this preparation. She is a mare that has been placed in Group 3 company at her only attempt at the distance. She can over race and do things wrong so I will be mindful of that in running, if I can get her to relax and she runs out the distance strongly, with the benefit of carrying half a kilo above the minimum, she will be one of the main chances.

Race 9 is the BM84 Wingate Avenue Community Centre Trophy over 1100 metres, my ride here is CHATUCHAK who is trained by James Cummings. She’s a five year old mare by Lonhro that is raced by Godolphin. She races here second up and has a consistent record of four starts for a win and two placings when second up. With previous exposure to the straight course and the track conditions to her liking, on her best form she can make her presence felt in this very competitive field. 

Moonee Valley Preview

Tonight I’m racing at the Moonee Valley night meeting. The rail is out 6 metres and the track is rated in the slow range with showers predicted throughout the evening. The last two meetings the rail has been in the true position so we will be racing on fresh ground but when the rail is in this position it usually favours horses racing close to the speed. It will be interesting to see how the track walks and if any pattern has developed prior to my first ride for the evening.

Race 5 is the BM70 Ladbrokes 55 Second Challenge Heat 8 over 955 metres, my ride here is SISTER KITTY MAC who is trained by Symon Wilde. She’s a five year old mare by Kaphero that I won on last preparation at the course and distance. She comes into this fifth up for this campaign with the blinkers removed from her head gear. She has drawn an outside barrier and is a mare with good natural speed from the gates. There looks to be a lot of pressure and speed in this race and if she races to her best form she will be in this for a long way.

Race 6 is the BM64 Australian Unity Handicap over 2040 metres, my ride here is VELLASPRIDE who is trained by Danny O'Brien. He’s a lightly raced four year old gelding by Clangalang who, from his six career starts has recorded one win and one third placing. He races here third up this preparation and stayed on nicely at his most recent run over 1600 metres at Bendigo when the blinkers were applied for the first time. He steps up to this distance range for the first time and if we get some luck from a wide barrier draw I expect him to be staying on well.

Race 8 is the BM70 Drinkwise Handicap over 1600 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is VITANI who is trained by Wendy Kelly. She’s a lightly raced four year old mare by Animal Kingdom that is building a strong record and from her eight career starts has only missed a top three placing once. She finished fourth on that occasion to Fifty Stars (IRE) who went on to win two races through the Spring Carnival. Vitani won two starts ago at Cranbourne and at her most recent run was pleasing in the same grade at Sandown over 1400 metres. She steps up in distance to the mile for the first time and will appreciate the rain affected surface and her chances will be further enhanced if the predicted rain arrives. I trialled her before she had her first race start on a heavy surface at Cranbourne and she handled it very well. She is a very adaptable mare that is racing consistently and has drawn a good barrier to gain an economical run in transit and should be hard to beat.

Wyong Preview

Today I’m racing at Wyong where I have one ride for the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig training partnership. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 6 is the Magic Millions Wyong 2yo Classic over 1100 metres, my ride here is CHAMPAGNE BOOM. She’s a lightly raced filly by Spirit of Boom that I have ridden in both of her race starts. She won on debut in dominant fashion at Caulfield over 1000 metres and had her second start at Flemington on Melbourne Cup day where she finished third. Although she closed the race off nicely, I felt she didn’t show her great turn of foot at Flemington due to the torrential rain we had prior to and during the race. She now returns to a firmer surface and this will be her first attempt racing the Sydney way of going. She is contesting this race in the lead up to the 2 year old Magic Millions race that will be held on the Gold Coast in January. I’m really looking forward to seeing the improvement she has taken from her last run when she presents in the mounting yard and how she copes going right handed under raceday pressure for the first time. She has shown very good natural ability and I expect her to be very hard to beat. 

Werribee Cup Preview

Today I’m racing at Spendthrift Australia Park where it’s Werribee Cup Day. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 5 is the Welsh Homes F&M BM64 Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is MISS ADEQUATE who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This five year old mare by O’Reilly (NZ) races first up for her preparation, she has won or placed in half of her first up attempts. She is well placed in this race as she is racing on her rating and has been allocated the top weight of 60 kilos. This is only a small field and she has drawn favourably in barrier one with her usual pattern to settle on-speed. She has trialled nicely at Cranbourne in preparation for this and will give herself every opportunity to win from a good barrier draw.

Race 6 is the TAB Werribee Cup over 2000 metres, my ride here is SECOND BULLET who is trained by Danny O'Brien. I rode him in this race last year where we drew an outside barrier in a big field and carried 58 kilos. He drops to 54.5kgs this year which is half a kilo off the minimum and has drawn a wide barrier in a small field of nine gallopers. He races second up here and this is his favourite distance with a record of six wins, five seconds and six third placings. He is versatile in his racing style and it will be interesting to see how the track is racing throughout the day and if there is any pattern or bias. With no weight on his back and his versatility with his racing style, this looks a really good race for him to win. 

Pakenham Cup Preview

Today I’m racing at Racing.com Park where it’s Pakenham Cup Day. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 1 is the John Duff & Co 3YO BM70 Handicap over 1000 metres, my ride here is SYMPHONETTE who is trained by Phillip Stokes. This filly by Helmet has had four lifetime starts and has only missed a top two placing once. Her two runs this preparation have been in Adelaide where she was impressive when winning both of those. She comes into this third up and three weeks between runs. She will start from an outside barrier and with some luck in running in this competitive field she will be one of the main chances.

Race 3 is the Fulmen Park F&M BM78 Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is IT’S A MYTH who is trained by Phillip Stokes. She’s a four year old mare by Sepoy that is raced by Mill Park Stud and Mills Breeding. I rode her at her most recent run at Sandown where she was very slow to begin and closed the race off nicely to finish in fourth place. She is stepping up in distance and it will be important that I can get her to jump with the field so she doesn’t give them too much of a head start. If she can jump and travel where she is comfortable and shows her good acceleration she will be closing off strongly. She will appreciate the drop in weight to the minimum here and carries 4.5 kilos less than her last start.

Race 4 is the Grand Vue Springlands BM78 Handicap over 2000 metres, my ride here is ROYAL ORDER who is trained by Mick Kent. This five year old gelding by Commands has been racing in good form this preparation and comes into this fourth up. He hasn’t been out of the top three placings this campaign and has been a very consistent galloper throughout his career. He stays at the same distance as his last start where he finished second at Moonee Valley and looks to be a strong middle-distance horse. He looks well placed here and with luck in running from an outside barrier I expect he will produce another strong effort.

Race 5 is the Nasahi AAC Plate over 1000 metres, my ride here is PREZADO who is trained by Mathew Ellerton & Simon Zahra. He’s a four year old gelding by Denman that has had 12 starts for a record of one win and five placings. He is racing on a seven day turn around and on his best form would be one of the main chances. He has displayed good ability throughout his career against high quality sprinters and if everything falls into place for him today, which I think it will, he can continue his consistent form.

Race 6 is the Schweppes David Bourke Memorial Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is FASTNET LATINA (IRE) who is trained by Archie Alexander. This six year old imported gelding by Fastnet Rock is raced by OTI Racing and partners. He is a lightly raced horse that is very talented. From his 13 career starts he has a record of four wins and four placings. He is versatile in his racing pattern and has raced well when ridden on speed and from a mid- field position. He has drawn a wide barrier so it will be interesting to see what my instructions are pre-race. He has the benefit of the minimum weigh of 54 kilos and this will give him every opportunity against this competitive field.

Race 7 is the Listed Sportsbet Pakenham Cup over 2500 metres, my ride here is TALLY who is trained by James Cummings. This six year old gelding by Street Cry is raced by Godolphin. I rode him to success in his three year old season and hadn’t ridden him for some time until his most recent start at Sandown where we were successful in the Group 3 Eclipse Stakes. He steps up in distance here with three weeks between runs and should gain an economical run in transit from a low barrier. He has been racing consistently this preparation in Group level throughout the Spring against our best horses and will take a lot of beating in this.

Race 8 is the Racing.com VOBIS Gold Bullion over 1400 metres, my ride here is AMADEUS who is trained by Mick Kent. This race is restricted to VOBIS Gold horses only. Amadeus is a six year old entire by Amadeus Wolf (GB) that is raced by Joan Walker and partners. He won this race last year and he comes into this fourth up for the preparation. His runs have been spaced and this is a formula that he seems to appreciate. I rode him in a jumpout on Monday in preparation for today’s assignment. He is going very well and with luck from an outside barrier is one of the main chances.

Race 9 is the Sportsbet Racing Form Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is SYLPHEED who is trained by Matt Cumani. She’s a five year old mare by Real Saga who is having her first start since changing trainers. She races here fourth up with some eight weeks between runs. She hasn’t won for almost a year to the day, with her last victory on December 9^th2017 at Doomben in Listed grade. She has been racing well without winning in Group races for mares throughout the Spring. She has drawn a good barrier to gain an economical run and will carry the minimum weight. She has a versatile racing pattern and can be ridden effectively on or off speed. On her best form she will take a lot of beating in this.