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Sandown Preview

Today I’m racing at Sandown on the hillside circuit. The track is rated a good 4 and the rail is out fourteen metres. There are eight city meetings left in the countdown to the end of the season and I hold a two win lead over Damian Lane. He’s back riding at this meeting and I’m looking forward to the good competition.

Race 2 is the Le Pine Funerals Handicap Two-Years-Old Colts and Geldings Handicap over 1000 metres, my ride here is BEN HERCULES who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This colt by I Am Invincible has had three career starts and resumed this preparation with a win on heavy ground at Bendigo. I rode him in his two runs in his first preparation where he ran second on debut before doing a few things wrong at his next start at Group 3 level at Caulfield before being spelled. He races on a firmer surface here and will have taken a good deal of confidence from his first up victory. He stays at the same distance as his first up run and if he reproduces that effort, is the horse to beat.

Race 3 is the Mypunter.com Handicap BM64 Handicap over 1800 metres, my ride here is LEGALE who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This three year old gelding by Nicconi runs in the Mcanulty Racing colours. He is lightly raced having had three lifetime starts and hasn’t missed the top three in his runs. I rode him for the first-time last start where he was successful on heavy ground at Ballarat. He now steps up in distance, is racing against the older horses and has drawn a nice barrier. With confidence from his last start win and the feel he gave me at Ballarat I believe he can take the next step.

Race 4 is the Clanbrooke Racing Handicap BM78 Handicap over 2400 metres, my ride here is VILLARDO who is trained by Matthew Smith. This four year old gelding by Jukebox Jury has been imported from Germany. Before arriving in Australia, he was successful in Germany over 2200 metres. He has had three starts in Australia and has been progressing nicely each run. The step up in distance will suit him and I expect he will produce a forward showing.

Race 5 is the Ladbrokes Handicap Fillies and Mares BM70 Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is ALMA’S ROSSA who is trained by Matthew Williams. This mare by Testa Rossa closed off nicely last time out at the same course and distance. She looks like she has been building towards another win throughout this preparation, however, is a horse that tends to get back in her races. Hopefully if the track is racing evenly and if she doesn’t have too much work to do she is going to be very competitive.

Race 6 is the Le Pine Funerals Handicap Three-Years-Old Fillies BM64 Handicap over 1300 metres, my ride here is SPEAK SOFTLY who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This filly by Nicconi has been a model of consistency throughout her career where she has had seven starts and only missed the top three on two occasions. She won her maiden over the same distance two starts ago on the synthetic surface however has been placed on rain affected tracks previously. She’s started short in the market in most of her career runs to date and if her last start failure can be forgiven and she has luck from an outside barrier, she should be very competitive once again.

Sale Preview

Today I’m racing at Sale where the track is rated a soft 6 and the rail in the true position.

Race 1 is the Laurels Function Centre Maiden Plate over 2200 metres for three year olds and upwards, my ride here is RAKOVSKY who is trained by Mick Kent. I rode this gelding by Gorky Park in his debut run on heavy ground at Bendigo over 1400 metres and finished third. He gave me a lovely feel on that day and I expect he will appreciate the step up in distance here and will be hard to beat in this.

Race 2 is the Maffra Business & Tourism Association Two-Years-Old Maiden Plate over 1200 metres, my ride here is SERGEANT who is trained by James Cummings. This colt by Helmet is raced by Godolphin. He is a flashy type being chestnut in colour with plenty of white on him. He had an official trial in Sydney last year and I’ve had the benefit of watching him gallop at Moonee Valley with an older horse. He looks like a promising type based on the way he worked and handled himself at Moonee Valley and if he brings that work to the races will take a lot of beating.

Race 5 is the Duarts Homestead Three-Years-Old Maiden Plate over 1400 metres, my ride here is COCHADA who is trained by Alexander Rae. This gelding by Von Costa de Hero is having his second lifetime start and is racing first up this preparation. I expected a forward showing when I rode him at Sandown in his first career start, he did a few things wrong on that day and finished in third placing beaten by 1.3 lengths. I feel he will have taken a good deal of benefit from that experience and he has had an official trial at Cranbourne leading into his return to racing. He looks to be a horse with a nice future and is the one they all have to beat.

Race 9 is the Higgins Machinery & Mechanical Service MAFFRA CUP BM70 Handicap over 1717 metres, my ride here is NANGAWOOKA who is trained by Matthew Brown. This is a strong field of gallopers who are all chasing the good prize money on offer here. This gelding by Equiano will be fit from his recent racing and runs fourth up in this. He has the blinkers removed from his head gear which will help him to relax as he seemed to race a bit keenly last time out. I rode him two starts ago at Sandown where he ran well and was beaten by less than two lengths. He is a very honest horse who has had three runs at the track and distance for two placings. He races on speed and if he can relax and gets some luck from the wide barrier will be in this for a long way.

Race 10 is the Ladies Day – 9th Sep. BM64 Handicap over 1000 metres, my ride here is PENALTY who is trained by James Cummings. This three year old filly by Street Cry races in the colours of Godolphin. She had three runs last preparation for a win and two fourth placings. She resumes here and has had two nice jumpouts in preparation for this. She is a quality galloper and if we have luck from an outside barrier will be winning this.

Caulfield Preview

Today I’m racing at Caulfield where the track is rated a good 4 and the rail is out seven metres. The count down to the end of the season and the championships is on and after a double on Wednesday I am one win in front. I hope to further extend my lead today as Damian Lane is absent from this meeting.

Race 1 is the Keno Let's Play Handicap over 1200 metres for two year old, my ride here is RUBAN BLEU who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This colt by Artie Schiller has had one start at Flemington up the straight where he finished the race off nicely, finishing in fourth place. The form from that race has been franked with the second horse winning at Flemington last Saturday. He now steps up slightly in distance and will be racing around a turn for the first time under raceday pressure. I noticed before his first up run he’d had a number of jumpouts and looked to be very versatile being ridden both on and off speed. He has come up with a middle to outside barrier draw and I will be interested to see what my instructions are pre-race. He has winkers added to his head gear for the first time and with luck from the barrier will be one of the main chances.

Race 2 is the BM78 Keno Classic Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is SHE’S GOT SPEED who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This mare by Speed ’n’ Power was very gallant last time out when she sat outside the leader who was the eventual winner and was beaten by an official margin of 2.45 lengths at the same distance in a fillies and mares race. This is her preferred distance range as she has won over the mile on two occasions. She will get every favour from an inside draw and will carry the minimum weight of 54 kilos.

Race 4 is the Keno Kwikpik Handicap over 1100 metres for three year old fillies, my ride here is SOUL STAR who is trained by Ciaron Maher. This filly by Hinchinbrook is raced by Dream Thoroughbreds. She is resuming this preparation and recently had a jumpout at Caulfield to have her ready for this assignment. She has had two first up runs and won her maiden when racing fresh in her second preparation. She has come up with a middle barrier draw in what looks to be a strong race with a good deal of pressure on paper. I expect she can run well and make her presence felt.

Race 5 is the BM90 Keno Heads or Tails Margins Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here RILLITO who is trained by James Cummings. This mare by Street Cry is raced by Godolphin. I rode her first up at Moonee Valley where she put in a terrific effort to finish the race off strongly after being impeded on two occasions. Her second up record is very good having won twice from three attempts and she is effective over this distance. She has drawn an outside barrier, however, she is a classy mare and if the track is racing evenly I expect her to be finishing over the top of them.

Race 6 is the Keno Bonus Handicap over 1800 metres, my ride here HURSLEY who is trained by Chris Waller. This gelding by Makfi wears the Qatar Racing colours. He is coming back in distance from his last start at Flemington where he ran over 2500 metres. He seems to race well at Caulfield and from his three starts over the distance has only missed the top two on one occasion. He has drawn a nice barrier and looks well placed here where he will carry the minimum weight. I expect he can make his presence felt in this very competitive race.

Race 7 is the Keno Bonus HandicaKeno Replay Handicap over 1400 metres for three year olds, my ride here ELUDED who is trained by Mathew Ellerton & Simon Zahra. This gelding by Excelebration is raced by Hesket Bloodstock, managed by David Moodie. He is a horse that races on-speed or leads and dominates his races. He resumed this preparation with a solid effort in a strong race at Swan Hill where he was narrowly beaten on heavy ground. He comes into this race having taken natural improvement from his first up run and will carry half a kilo above the minimum weight. From an inside barrier, I expect he will be in this for a long way.

Race 8 is the BM84 Keno Superplay Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here MALAISE who is trained by James Cummings. This gelding by Helmet is raced by Godolphin. I rode him first up at Moonee Valley where he had no luck and put in a very good effort to finish in third placing. He now steps up in distance to the 1400 and from his five starts over the trip has only missed the top two on two occasions. He has excellent second up form, will get an economical run in transit from an inside barrier and is the horse to beat.

Race 9 is the BM84 Keno Jackpots Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here CHATUCHAK who is trained by James Cummings. This mare by Lonhro is also raced by Godolphin. She was successful last time out at Sandown when the blinkers were applied over the same distance. Although she takes a step up in class here she comes into this with confidence from her last start victory, carries the minimum weight and will jump from a low barrier. I expect she can run well and make her presence felt in this strong race.

Moonee Valley Preview

Today I’m racing at Moonee Valley where the track is rated soft and the rail is out seven metres.

Race 1 is the Big Swing Golf Handicap over 1200 metres for two year old fillies, my ride here is BRIGHT EYES who is trained by Shea Eden. This filly by Bel Esprit races in the colours of Noorilim Park Thoroughbreds and is raced by Peter Carrick and partners. At her first lifetime start she finished fourth at Swan Hill where she ran really well when faced with heavy track conditions and an outside barrier draw. She has drawn more favourably here and will have taken natural improvement from her first up run. The form from that race has been franked with the winner being very competitive at its next start. It is a small field and shapes as a very competitive race.

Race 2 is the Woodside Park Stud Handicap over 1000 metres, a BM64 for three year olds, my ride here is JUNGLE QUEEN who is trained by Christopher Davis. I’ve ridden this filly by Jungle Ruler previously when finishing second on her at the start of this preparation over the same distance at Sandown. Since then she’s been very competitive racing in her own age group and against the older horses at her most recent start. She’s come up with a wide barrier draw here and if the track is evenly, as there looks to be a lot of pressure on paper, I expect her to be highly competitive and run an honest race.

Race 3 is the Ladbrokes Multimaker Handicap over 2040 metres, a BM78 for fillies and mares, my ride here is ROCK AWAY who is trained by Rachael Cunningham. This is a course and distance that she enjoys and runs really well at, from her three starts at the track and trip she has only missed the top three on one occasion. She is a mare that generally settles in the second half of the field and in this race where she has drawn an outside barrier, providing there is no track bias, I expect her to be closing off strongly.

Race 4 is the BM78 Banta App Handicap over 2040 metres, my ride here is HARDERN who is trained by David Brideoake. He comes into this race full of confidence following on from a last start victory at Geelong. He’s had two runs at the track and distance for a third placing and from his three career starts at the track, has run two placings. He looks well placed to continue his recent consistent form here and if he doesn’t have to do too much work from a tricky draw I expect him to be one of the main chances.

Race 7 is the BM84 Sheamus Mills Bloodstock Handicap over 1000 metres, my ride here is GATLINBURG who is trained by Chris Meagher. This Husson gelding is raced by Waratah Thoroughbreds. I feel he is returning to his preferred distance of 1000 metres and if he can replicate his effort from two starts ago at Sandown that will hold him in good stead for this. He is a horse that does over race and appreciates a fast tempo so this race looks suitable for him as there is a good amount of speed on paper. He has unfortunately drawn a wide barrier and will need luck in running. If the track is racing evenly and the race is run to suit him, he will be one of the main chances.

Race 8 is the BM70 Mittys Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is DEMOLITION who is trained by James Cummings. This gelding by Street Cry races in the colours of Godolphin. He is a lightly raced and highly talented galloper who resumed this preparation with a very good effort over the same distance at Sandown on June 6^th. He races well on all track conditions and on his best form is the horse to beat.

Ballarat Preview

Today I’m racing at Ballarat where the track is rated a heavy 8.

Race 1 is the City of Ballarat 2YO Maiden Plate over 1600 metres, my ride here is WHITEMORE who is trained by Robbie Griffiths. This colt by Statue Of Liberty is raced by Australian Thoroughbred Bloodstock. He has had four lifetime starts and has always run a competitive race. In three of his starts he has drawn wide barriers and has still put in pleasing efforts. He is stepping up to the 1600 for the first time as are the majority of runners. Again, he has drawn a wide barrier and I will be interested to see what my instructions are from the draw. Based on the good form around him, he is the horse they all have to beat, providing he handles the heavy ground.

Race 2 is the Hertz Ballarat 3YO Maiden Plate over 1600 metres, my ride here is LEGALE who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This gelding by Nicconi runs in the Mcanulty colours. He is lightly raced having had two starts, where he finished third on both occasions. He now steps up in distance to the 1600 metres for the first time and has drawn the widest barrier. If he handles the ground and has luck in running he will take a lot of beating.

Race 3 is the Stamford Tyres Ballarat Maiden Plate over 1600 metres, my ride here is OCEAN WALZER who is trained by Darren Weir. This German four year old gelding by Wiener Walzer is raced by Australian Bloodstock and partners. He had one start in Germany where he finished second over 2200 metres before being imported to Australia. I rode him at his first start on Australian turf where he finished fourth at Sandown over 1400 metres. He presented in a fresh manner on that day pre-race and I feel he will have benefited greatly from the exposure to our raceday conditions. He was slow to begin then over raced during running and even though he closed the race off well, he had a tendency to hang to the right, so he is still a work in progress. He steps up in distance here which he will appreciate and I expect him to have taken a good amount of natural improvement from his first up run. This isn’t the strongest race on paper and if he handles the track conditions he won’t be beaten.

Flemington Preview

Today I’m racing at Flemington. There are 11 meetings to go in the run down to the championships and I’m equal with Damian Lane. The track is rated a soft 5 and the rail is out nine metres.

Race 1 is the Gippsland Region Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is REAL SUCCESS who is trained by Matt Laurie. This two year old gelding by Reset runs in the colours of Lucky Racing. He has had two life time starts where he won on debut over 1200 metres before stepping up in distance to 1400 where he finished third. He has been racing very consistently throughout his short career and is a horse that in his two starts to date has drawn a wide barrier on both occasions, as he has done again here today. His racing pattern is generally on-speed and if we don’t have to work too hard from an outside draw he will be there for a long way.

Race 4 is the 2018 Country Achiever Quinton Scott Handicap, a BM78 over 1400 metres, my ride here is KNOWABLE who is trained by Steve Richards. This four year old gelding by Hinchinbrook has been in excellent form this preparation and his last three runs have been at this course. His most recent run was over the same distance where he got a long way back from an outside barrier draw and closed off nicely. He placed at Listed grade two starts ago and comes back in class here. He has come up with an inside barrier and is the horse they all have to beat.

Race 5 is the High Country Handicap over 2520 metres, my ride here is FALAGO who is trained by Darren Weir. This gelding by Fastnet Rock is raced by Australian Thoroughbred Bloodstock. He’s been racing really well recently and is a horse with good form at the course and distance, from five runs he has a record of one win and three placings. He will carry the minimum weight and has drawn a low barrier, in what looks to be a high pressure race which will really suit him. He looks well placed here and is one of the main chances.

Race 6 is the Macedon and Goldfields Handicap for three year olds over 1600 metres, my ride here is WOULDA THOUGHT SO who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This gelding by So You Think races in the colours of Seymour Bloodstock. If you can forgive his last start effort at Moonee Valley he has excellent credentials. Although he has drawn an outside barrier he is a horse that gets back in running. This race looks to map like there will be a lot of pressure which will allow my horse to close off strongly if the track is racing evenly.

Race 7 is the Brian Beattie Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is MORTON’S FORK who is trained by James Cummings. This gelding by Ad Valorem is raced by Godolphin. I rode him at the end of his last preparation when he won a handicap over 1700 metres. He ran extremely well first up where he was beaten less than 4.5 lengths behind Ozi Choice. He will jump from an outside barrier and remains at the same distance of 1400 metres for his second up run. I expect he will have taken a good amount of natural fitness improvement from his first up run and am looking forward to seeing how he presents in the yard. He is a quality galloper having won the Group 2 Sandown Guineas and that form is good enough to see him winning this.

Race 8 is the David Bourke Provincial Plate over 1600 metres, my ride here is CARRAIG AONAIR who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This BM90 race is restricted to horses that have had three runs in the past 12 months in the country. This four year old gelding by Fastnet Rock is raced by Australian Thoroughbred Bloodstock. I rode him last preparation and was successful on him twice. I rode him three starts ago when he was second up and I was pleased with his effort where he raced on-speed and was beaten by 2 lengths. His last run was in BM78 grade and he goes up in class but comes down in weight here and will carry the minimum. He races very well at the distance and has good overall statistics at the track. He has drawn ideally in a low barrier to get an economical run in transit and will take a lot of beating on his best form.

Geelong Preview

Today I’m racing at Geelong. The track is rated a heavy 8 and the rail is out six metres.

Race 1 is the bet365 Geelong 2YO Fillies Maiden Plate over 1225 metres, my ride here is NESHMIYA who is trained by Peter & Paul Snowden. This filly by Medaglia d’Oro races in the colours of Sheikh Mohammad Bin Khalifa Al Maktoum. She is extremely well bred being half sister to Pride Of Dubai who was a Group 1 winner. She has had several official trials in NSW and at a recent jumpout at Flemington she showed nice speed and was able to extend away from the field in her heat. She, as is the majority of the field, is having her first lifetime start and if she produces her trial form she will be one of the main chances.

Race 2 is the Bendigo Bank – Own your own happy place Maiden Plate over 1225 metres, my ride here is COSMOLOGICAL who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This three year old gelding by Medaglia d’Oro is raced by Gerry Harvey. He has had two preparations and placed once from his four career starts. He is resuming this preparation as a gelding and runs first up here. He has shown good versatility as he has been ridden on-speed and has also been effective when ridden quietly. I will be interested to see how he presents in the yard and what my instructions will be from a middle to outside barrier draw.

Race 3 is the Lara Community Bank Maiden Plate over 1225 metres, my ride here is RIVERINA DANCER who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This two year old filly by Kaphero is third up this preparation and has the blinkers applied for the first time. She is a horse that has shown good natural speed in previous runs and if we don’t have to work too hard from an outside barrier and she handles the track conditions, she can run a competitive race against this strong field.

Race 7 is the Bendigo Bank – Commercial and Equipment Finance Rivette Series Heat 4 over 1425 metres, it’s a BM64 for three year old fillies, my ride here is DIAMOND BOW who is trained by Wendy Kelly. I’ve ridden her in her past four starts, she has had a freshen up following on from her most recent effort at Caulfield on April 28^thwhere she finished fourth. She was racing over the mile for the first time on that day and raced extremely well considering she did a few things wrong. She comes into this race dropping back in distance with the blinkers on for the first time. She has unfortunately drawn an outside barrier and as she usually gets back in her races will need some luck. She is the best credentialed horse in this race and provided the track is playing fairly, she will be winning this.

Race 8 is the Bendigo Bank Cup F&M BM64 Handicap over 1225 metres, my ride here is WIRED who is trained by Anthony Freedman. This three year old filly by Sharkbite runs in the colours of Pinecliff Racing. She has had three runs this preparation and two starts ago she finished third when racing on heavy ground. She has come up with an inside barrier draw in a race where there looks to be good speed on paper, from the draw she should get an economical run in transit and she looks to be one of the main chances. She will have the blinkers removed again from her headgear.

Race 9 is the Bet365 Geelong BM70 Handicap over 1525 metres, my ride here is SEARCH SQUAD who is trained by Doug Harrison. His form on heavy ground is excellent as he has had one start for one win. Although he has drawn an outside barrier this doesn’t look to be a disadvantage for his racing pattern as he is a horse that gets backs and when he starts to travel this will allow me to build his momentum up. He can over race so if there is a solid tempo and they run along and he can relax for the first half I expect him to be strong late.

Race 10 is the Bet 365 BM64 Handicap over 1733 metres, my ride here is HIGH SIERRA who is trained by Luke Oliver. This four year old mare by Redwood is raced by Grand Syndicates. I rode her last time out and was pleased with her performance on testing ground. I expect her to have improved from that run, be suited by the step up in distance here and feel from a favourable barrier draw she will take a lot of beating if she maintains her good form.

Bendigo Preview

Today I’m racing at Bendigo. The track is rated a heavy 9 with rain forecast throughout the afternoon and the rail is out nine metres.

Race 3 is the “Thanks Kenny Keating” Maiden Plate over 1400 metres, my ride here is RAKOVSKY who is trained by Michael Kent. This four year old gelding by Gorky Park is having his first lifetime start and has not been sighted at the official trials. It usually is a question mark when a horse is having his debut run on heavy ground over 1400 metres, however, history has shown that Mick Kent is one of the trainers that conditions, prepares and places his horses so they are ready to win first time out. I hope this is the case here today and he can get the job done. I am looking forward to seeing him for the first time pre-race and will be interested to see how he presents in the yard.

Race 9 is the Mosstrooper Steeplechase Raceday 22 July BM64 Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is BIRDS OF TOKYO who is trained by Luke Oliver. This mare by Nicconi hasn’t been racing up to her best form of late but she is a superior wet tracker and the conditions will favour her here today. She is racing at a distance where she has raced four times and only missed the top three on one occasion. If she can regain her best form she will be competitive.

Moonee Valley Preview

Today I’m racing at Moonee Valley. The track is rated soft and the rail is out four metres after racing in the true position two weeks ago. With 12 meetings left until the end of the season in the run down to the championships, I am one winner behind Damian Lane. He is suspended today so hopefully I can get ahead of him after today’s race meeting.

Race 2 is the Friends of Epworth Plate over 1600 metres, a BM84 for fillies and mares, my ride here is ROCK AWAY who is trained by Rachael Cunningham. This six year old mare by Elvstroem races first up here. She has won first up previously and her statistics over the distance are good having had eight starts for two wins and a second placing. At the track and distance, she has had three starts for a win and second placing and her overall form at the track is very good. She will carry the minimum weight and her recent racing pattern of getting back means she will need the track to be racing evenly and the race run to allow her to finish off.

Race 4 is the Silver Thomas Hanley Plate, a BM78 over 1200 metres, my ride here is MOONLITES CHOICE who is trained by Darren Weir. This mare by Bushranger is raced by John Richards. She is a horse that I rode at the end of her three year old season where I had three rides on her for a win, a second and a fifth. She then had a long break and I rode her first up this preparation when she raced at the same course and distance on June 2nd. I was impressed with her appearance and felt she had matured and furnished from her three year old year. She competed very well on that day, although she was a little bit fresh she raced extremely well. She has come up with the outside barrier draw here and will need some luck. If this race is run to suit her and she has some luck, she will be winning.

Race 5 is the Catanach’s Jewellers Plate, a handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is MALAISE who is trained by James Cummings. This gelding Helmet is raced by Godolphin. He races first up here and although he hasn’t won when resuming previously he has run well and placed at his three attempts. He has previous exposure to the course and distance and I have ridden him once when finishing second at Sandown last year. From a favourable barrier draw in what is a small but competitive field, on his best form I expect him to be finishing the race off strongly and he can run well, if the track is racing evenly.

Race 6 is the Epi Café Plate, a BM84 handicap over 1000 metres for mares, my ride here is RILLITO who is trained by James Cummings. This five year old mare by Street Cry is also raced by Godolphin. I have had one ride on her for a win at this track when she was a three year old. She is resuming here and her first up record is excellent as she has only been out of the top three on one occasion. She has had two official trials in Sydney to have her ready for this where she trialled extremely well both times. Although she has drawn an outside barrier I expect her to be closing off strongly, if the track is racing with no bias and allowing horses to get back and finish off, then she will be winning this.

Race 8 is the GJK Facility Services Plate, a handicap over 2040 metres, my ride here is RAW IMPULSE who is trained by Darren Weir. This galloper by Makfi, is raced by Australian Bloodstock. He has excellent statistics on soft ground as he has won or placed at half of his starts. He has been building progressively towards his preferred distance and reaches that range, racing fifth up here. He looks well placed here in this very competitive race where he will carry one kilo above the minimum and I expect him to be one of the main chances.

Race 9 is the Bidfood Travis Harrison Cup, a handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is MAGIC CONSOL who is trained by Paul Preusker. This is a very special race to myself and my family as it is named in honour of my cousin, the late Travis Harrison. Magic Consol is the horse I rode in this race last year and we were denied victory by a nose. It would be great to go one placing better this year and he looks to be building towards that. His trainer is very confident with the way the horse has come through his recent racing and his only concern would be if the track were to become rain affected throughout the afternoon. It would be great to win this race and I feel he is the right horse and this race profiles well for him. He comes in on the minimum weight, in good form and will jump from a nice barrier draw with the ground the only concern if it were to rain. No doubt we will have the heavens on our side and it would be a big thrill to win the race in honour of Travis.

Sale Preview

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

Race 3 is the Laurels Function Centre 2YO Maiden Plate over 1200 metres, my ride here is JARMANAGIC who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This gelding by Starspangledbanner has raced against Group 1 winners in his previous campaigns. He is an experienced two year old as he is now resuming his third preparation. He has jumped out well at Flemington in preparation for his first up run and from a nice middle barrier draw he looks the horse to beat.

Race 4 is the TRFM Silver Bowl Series Heat 3, a BM64 for three year olds over 1500 metres, my ride here is GALAPAGOS who is trained by James Cummings. This gelding by Teofilo is raced by Godolphin. He was successful on debut where he put in a dominant display at Geelong over 1200 metres in an open maiden. He now steps up in distance with the experience and confidence from his first up win and is back to racing against his own age group. Although he is the least experienced horse in this field of seven he looks to be a horse that will progress through his grades based on his first start performance.

Sandown Preview

Today I’m racing at Sandown on the Hillside circuit. The track is rated good and the rail is out seven metres. I’m looking forward to walking the track given the rain that has fallen this week.

Race 1 is the Le Pine Funerals Handicap for two year old fillies over 1000 metres, my ride here is KOBE PRINCESS who is trained by Luke Oliver. This filly by Reward For Effort has had three starts and has not missed a placing. I rode her at her most recent start at the same track and distance where she closed the race off strongly and was beaten by less than a length. The horse that finished in fourth placing on that day has since won, putting in a dominant display at Sale. The have spaced her runs and she comes into this some four weeks between starts. She performed so well at this track and distance last time, if the track is racing evenly and there is no disadvantage to being out wider, which is usually the case in the 1000 metres races here, then she will be the horse to beat.

Race 2 is the Sheen Group Handicap, an open maiden over 1400 metres, my ride here is OCEAN WALZER who is trained by Darren Weir. This four year old imported gelding is by Wiener Walzer and races in the colours of Australian Bloodstock. He has had just the one start at Cologne where he finished second when racing over 2200 metres. He is having his first Australian start here and although I haven’t ridden him, I watched him have an official trial at Werribee recently where he performed well. He has come up with an inside barrier draw and is a horse who will no doubt improve further when he steps up in distance but I expect he can make his presence felt as he looks to be a gelding of high quality.

Race 5 is the Polytrack Handicap, a BM70 over 1000 metres, my ride here is FLASH CASH who is trained by Matt Laurie. This three year old gelding by Pluck has been very consistent throughout his 11 lifetime starts with a record of two wins and six placings. He started this preparation off in good style with a win on the Pakenham synthetic track, he then went to Sale and closed off well to finish in second place behind Parwan Prince who was dominant when racing on speed. His racing style is to settle mid field and from a nice barrier draw I’m hoping for a little bit of luck for him to show his great acceleration and continue his good record. He looks well placed in this class of race and will be one of the main chances.

Race 6 is the Clanbrooke Racing Handicap, a BM70 over 1600 metres, my ride here is WINKELMANNwho is trained by Danny O'Brien. This four year old mare by Rip Van Winkle has one of the best form references in this race, if you can forgive her last start. She has had nine runs at the distance and has finished in the top three at more than half of those. She has had three runs at the track and has won here previously. If she regains her normal form she will give herself every chance from a favourable barrier and will be hard to run down.

Race 7 is the Moorookyle Park Handicap, a BM70 race for mares over 1400 metres, my ride here is MISS ADEQUATE who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This mare by O’Reilly races second up here and of her three second up runs has only missed the top three on one occasion. She has had four runs at the distance and although she hasn’t won over the distance, she has placed three times. She is mare that races on speed and with natural fitness improvement from her first up run and stepping up slightly in distance, she should be more comfortable and can make her own luck racing close to the speed. If she has a nice run in transit she will take a lot of beating.

Mornington Preview

Today I’m racing at Mornington where it's a city meeting on the Queen’s Birthday. The metropolitan status of this meeting means it’s included in the race for the championships. The track is rated soft and the rail is in the true position.

Race 2 is the Steller.com.au Plate over 1600 metres, a maiden for fillies and mares, my ride here is RED JEWEL GIRL who is trained by Mick Kent. This four year old mare by Red Giant is having her first lifetime start and has had an official trial at Cranbourne on May 21^stin preparation for this. She has come up with a nice middle barrier and I will be interested to see how she parades pre-race and performs under raceday pressure.

Race 3 is the Luke Duhig Memorial Plate, a three year old maiden over 1200 metres, my ride here is CREATIVE HARMONY who is trained by John Sadler. This gelding by Denman is raced by David Yu. I rode him last start at Warrnambool over 1700 where he had the blinkers on for the first time, he made all the running and weakened in the straight. He has now had a freshen up and comes back in distance. If he can find his best form he can be competitive in this.

Race 4 is the Handyman Steel Supplies Plate, a three year old maiden over 1200 metres, my ride here is EDMONIA who is trained by Clive Balfour. This filly by Statue Of Liberty is having her first lifetime start here. I have ridden her previously in an official trial at Cranbourne where I felt she would take a good amount of benefit from the trip away from her home track of Mornington and would have benefited from the experience of being in amongst a group of horses. It’s been some five weeks since her official trial and hopefully she has come on from that experience and has luck from an outside barrier draw here today.

Race 5 is the Anchor Point Engineering Handicap, a BM64 for three year old fillies over 1200 metres, my ride here is RIVERINA ROMANCE who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This filly by Equiano has had two runs at the track for win and a second, she won her maiden at this track over 1000 metres. This preparation she has been racing well and steps up to the 1200 for the first time this campaign. She has come up with an outside draw and is a horse that races on speed. If the track were to become affected by rain throughout the afternoon it would further enhance her chances as she has been previously exposed to a heavy track when finishing second.

Race 6 is the Hoad Construction Handicap, a BM64 over 1600 metres, my ride here is MEOWIE WOWIE who is trained by Rob Blacker. This six year old mare by Globetrotter has the advantage of being trained on track at Mornington. I have been encouraged by watching the replays of her recent starts. She is a horse that, from the draw, might have to go back but if the track is racing evenly and the race is run to suit her I expect her to be right there in the finish.

Race 7 is the Clanbrooke Racing Handicap, a BM64 over 2000 metres, my ride here is RETICENT who is trained by Tony Parker. This grey gelding by Pentire is reaching his preferred distance range with good form over the distance. He has previously raced at the course and distance when finishing second. He looks like he has been building throughout his preparation towards this and looks well placed here. With a good amount of pressure in this race it should suit him and I expect him to settle in the first five or six throughout the early stages and be one of the main chances.

Doomben Preview

Today I’m racing at Doomben. The track is rated soft and the rail is in the true position. There has been two weeks between meetings on this track leading into their feature raceday for the year and the club has been working tirelessly to ensure the track is in great order and races fairly.

Race 1 is the Listed Makers Mark Hinkler Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is STELLA OMBRA who is trained by Kelly Schweida. This gelding by Dane Shadow races second up here and although he has never won second up he has finished third on two occasions. His first up effort was pleasing where he was ridden back and closed the race off nicely. He has come up with an outside barrier draw here and I will be interested to see what my instructions are pre-race. They could adopt his normal racing style which is to go forward and hopefully get some luck or they might ask me to ride him back as he raced well when ridden in that manner last time out. He comes into this race on the minimum weight and will need luck from the draw.

Race 2 is the Listed Radiotab The Wayne Wilson over 1600 metres, my ride here is COLDSTONE who is trained by Mick Kent. This gelding by Gold Away has had two runs in Brisbane at the same course and distance where I’ve ridden him on both occasions. He drew inside gates on those occasions and got a nice run behind the speed and in both races he was beaten by less than two lengths. His most recent start was under W.F.A conditions and he drops back to set weights and penalties here which are more favourable seeing him carry 56.5 kilos. He has come up with an outside barrier and with good natural gate speed and the addition of blinkers for the first time, with luck from the draw I expect he will be one of the main chances.

Race 4 is the Group 2 Pages Event Hire Brisbane Cup over 2200 metres, my ride here is AMBITIOUS who is trained by Anthony Freedman. I’ve ridden this six year old entire by Deep Impact in his last three runs and he has had four starts in Australia since arriving from Japan. He came into the races last start with a different racing style as he had been aggressive when racing in NSW and he was unable to hold a position last time out. He got back in the field at Doomben and raced extremely well, I feel if he had clear galloping room the whole way up the straight he would have gone close to winning under W.F.A conditions. He is now stepping up in distance and returns to racing under handicap conditions where, as the highest rated horse will carry the most weight. I feel he is potential Caulfield Cup horse based on his last run and if that is the case, he will be winning this.

Race 5 is the feature event of the QLD racing calendar, the Group 1 UBET Stradbroke Handicap over 1350 metres, my ride here is SPIETH who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This Thorn Park entire is raced by Aquis Farm and partners. He has had one start for his new trainers where I rode him at the same course over 1200 metres at W.F.A conditions. He was beaten by less than two lengths on that occasion and I was pleased with the way he closed the race off. He had a setback following that run however the stable are pleased with his progression and he finds himself racing in this feature Group 1 handicap. Although his usual racing pattern is to settle in the second half of the field, we will need luck in running from an outside barrier draw. I expect him to have taken natural improvement from his first up run and if that’s the case, dropping 5 kilos from W.F.A to handicap conditions, with luck in running and the track racing fairly, he will be one of the main chances to win his first Group 1 race as he has been close on a couple of occasions.

Race 6 is the Group 1 Jaguar Land Rover J.J. Atkins Plate over 1600 metres for two year olds, my ride here is FUNDAMENTALIST who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This filly by Not A Single Doubt races in the Aquis Farm colours. She has had five starts and hasn’t missed the top two placings. She has been getting back in her races and closing off solidly. This will be the first time she has been placed under race pressure this way of going however, she has had the benefit of a recent official trial in Sydney to help her, where she trialled nicely. She has drawn a middle barrier and if she isn’t given too much work to do and the track is racing evenly I can see her winning this Group 1 contest.

Magnesium Rose Caulfield 7 January 2018.jpg

Sandown Preview

Today I’m racing at Sandown on the Lakeside circuit with the shorter of the two straights. The rail is out 9 metres and the track is rated good.

Race 1 is the Clanbrooke Racing Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is MANNZA who is trained by Jamie Edwards. This two year old gelding by Fiorente is having his first life time start and had an official trial at Werribee last Monday where he put in a solid effort. He has drawn an outside barrier and will need luck from the draw. It’s a positive sign that his trainer has chosen to start his career off in the city over 1400 metres and indicates that the stable must have a good opinion of him.

Race 3 is the Ladbrokes Back Yourself Handicap BM64 over 1400 metres, my ride here is NANGAWOOKA who is trained by Matthew Brown. This five year old gelding by Equiano races second up here. Although he has no prior second up form, his overall form has been solid and he has been racing consistently. He has come up with an inside barrier which is an advantage to him as he tends to settle on-speed. This is a competitive benchmark race but on his best form he can make his presence felt.

Race 5 is the Dream Thoroughbreds Handicap BM70 over 1200 metres, my ride here is COMRADE NED who is trained by Peter Smith. This five year old gelding by Soldier’s Tale races third up this preparation and is racing over his preferred distance of 1200 metres with his four wins having been over this distance. His two runs this preparation have been solid and he was beaten by less than two lengths last time out where he had limited galloping room over the concluding stages. His form last preparation when racing on the Lakeside circuit was good where he ran fourth before going on to win at Caulfield beating the talented Bord de Gain. From an inside barrier, he is likely to settle in the first half of the field and this looks a winnable race for him.

Race 6 is the Clanbrooke Racing Handicap BM70 for three year old fillies over 1200 metres, my ride here is MAGNESIUM ROSE who is trained by Matthew Lindsay. This filly by Magnus is lightly raced has been racing consistently throughout her career to date. She resumed this preparation first up on heavy ground where she put in a pleasing effort after being slow out of the gates. Although she has drawn an outside barrier, with luck from the draw and on her best form she will take a lot of beating in this very competitive race.

Race 8 is the Ladbrokes Odds Boost Handicap over BM78 1600 metres, my ride here is SPEARHEAD who is trained by Saab Hasan. This five year old gelding by Turffontein has been racing competitively this campaign since he started racing on-speed. He comes into this with race fitness on his side and on the minimum weight of 54 kilos. He too has drawn an outside barrier, in a race where there looks to be a bit of pressure I will have to work closely with him to make sure he can conserve his energy in the first half of the race and can run out the mile solidly. If all goes to plan and he can conserve his energy, he will be in this for a long way.

Ballarat Preview

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

Race 3 is the Eureka Concrete SV Maiden Plate over 2000 metres, my ride here is SUBUTAI who is trained by Danny O’Brien. I’ve had a couple of rides on this gelding and most recently when he resumed this preparation at Pakenham where he was beaten by just over a length. He has got good soft track form and although he has drawn an outside barrier if he doesn’t have to do too much work I expect him to put in an honest performance and run a competitive race.

Race 8 is the Hygain Winner’s Choice BM78 Handicap over 2000 metres, my ride here is ZILBIYR who is trained by Robert Kingston. This imported gelding is by Holy Roman Empire and races third up here. He is now stepping up to his most effective distance range and put in a pleasing effort last start where the blinkers went back on in the same grade of race as he has been placed in here. He was beaten by less than two lengths last time out at Flemington over 1600 metres, has excellent soft track form, is very well weighted and is the horse to beat.

Race 9 is the Craig’s Royal Hotel BM64 Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is HIGH SIERRA who is trained by Luke Oliver. This mare by Redwood is raced by Grand Syndicates. She has been very consistent throughout her racing career with a record of two wins and a placing from only six starts. She put together two wins in a row in March before having a freshen up with one of her wins being at Moonee Valley. Her most recent run was over 1500 metres and she steps up in distance here where she has drawn a favourable barrier and with the run under her belt, I expect her to find her usual form and be very competitive.

Moonee Valley Preview

Today I’m racing at Moonee Valley. The rail is in the true position and I’m looking forward to riding on the rejuvenated surface after a six week break. I galloped horses here on Tuesday morning and was pleased with the way the surface presented.

Race 3 is the Ladbrokes Back Yourself Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is MOONLITES CHOICE who is trained by Darren Weir. This mare by Bushranger is raced by John Richards. I am looking forward to seeing her pre-race as it has been sometime since she last raced. I have had two rides on her for a win and a second. She comes into this race following on from an impressive trial win on Monday at Werribee with a first up record of three starts for two wins. Her four runs over the distance have netted her three wins and she is effective on all surfaces. She has drawn a nice barrier and comes into this race one kilo above the minimum. I expect a forward showing from this extremely honest mare.

Race 4 is the Dominant MVRC Partnership Handicap over 1000 metres, my ride here is TUSCANY HERO who is trained by Wendy Kelly. This gelding by Kaphero is coming off a last start win on heavy ground. He is a horse that gets back in running and conserves his energy for a late run. He does require luck in running as he is giving the leaders a head start. This is a big field and there looks to be a lot of pressure on paper which should suit him.

Race 5 is the Goodlife Essendon Handicap over 1500 metres, my ride here is EVIL LIL who is trained by Lee & Shannon Hope. This mare by Hold That Tiger has had two runs this preparation and has run extremely well on both occasions. At her most recent run over 1400 metres I rode her when we finished second and she steps up in grade here and will carry half a kilo above the minimum. This is a small but competitive field and there looks to be good pressure, the faster they go and the more the field spreads out will enhance her chances. I was delighted with the way she performed last time and she meets the horse that beat her home 3 pounds better at the weights. I’m expecting her to hold her form and be one of the main chances.

Race 6 is the Cafetto Kate O’Sullivan Mile, my ride here is TARQUIN who is trained by James Cummings. This gelding by Hard Spun is raced by Godolphin. I’ve been pleased with all of his runs this preparation and he has good statistics at the track. He is dropping back in distance, has the blinkers added again to his head gear and will jump from a middle barrier. I know him well having ridden him previously when he was a three year old and was successful on him. I’m looking forward to being reunited with him and feel he is one of the main chances in this competitive event.

Race 7 is the Dominant Martin Ralston Cup over 2040 metres, my ride here is THE WILLYBE who is trained by Peter Gelagotis. This gelding by Alamosa is a genuine stayer and comes into this third up and reaching his most effective distance range where he will jump from an inside barrier and will carry the minimum weight. He runs well on all surfaces and his chances would be further enhanced if there were to be rain throughout the day. He is a horse that will be upfront and should be there for a long way.

Race 8 is the Dominant 60 Years Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is FREE FLY TOO who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This gelding by Teofilo is raced by Eric Wong. I have ridden him last preparation when he won maiden before stepping up in distance and raced over the Flemington Spring Carnival. Since then he has been gelded and he was successful two starts ago and he also put in a pleasing effort at his most recent run where he was there for a long way. He stays at the same distance, is having his first start at Moonee Valley and from an inside barrier will be given an economical run before being asked for an effort. He also has the benefit of being race fit and will carry the minimum weight.

Sale Preview

Today I’m racing at Sale. The rail is out 5 metres and the track is rated good.

Race 1 is the John Allman 2YO Fillies Maiden Plate over 1008 metres, my ride here is UNIFY who is trained by James Cummings. This filly by Sepoy is raced by Godolphin. She is having her first lifetime start here and had an official trial at Randwick last year before having a break from training. She has had a recent jumpout to have her ready for this first up assignment. I like the way she closed off in her jumpout and feel she has above average ability. If she can bring that form to the races she will be one of the main chances.

Race 3 is the Helen Cantwell BM64 Handicap over 1000 metres, my ride here is VALENTE who is trained by Robbie Laing. This three year old colt by I Am Invincible is raced by the Montague Family and partners. I have ridden this horse twice last preparation for a fifth placing at Pakenham before going on to win on him next time out at Cranbourne on January 5th. At his next start he took on Nature Strip at Sandown in what was an above average field. The form out of that race would warrant him being very competitive in this. He has had a break between runs however has had multiple jumpouts and official trials, so I will be interested to see how he performs again under raceday pressure. Based on his last start effort and the form out of that race, he will be one of the main chances.

Race 6 is the Thelma Coster BM70 Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is BONFIRE GOLD who is trained by Matthew Enright. This five year old gelding by Golden Snake is very lightly raced having had only two career starts last preparation. He ran second on debut before breaking his maiden on heavy ground over 1400 metres at Cranbourne on January 12th. He is a horse that will have taken a great amount of benefit from last preparation and has had two jumpouts in preparation for his first up run. He has drawn a nice barrier and should the track deteriorate with any rain throughout the day that will also increase his chances. Although he is the most inexperienced horse in the field I feel he has plenty of upside and a good amount of ability.

Race 8 is the Tony Hart / Bill Jones Gippsland Middle Distance Series Heat 2 over 1600 metres, my ride here is DOMINANT GENE who is trained by Paul & Tracey Templeton. This four year old gelding by Dash For Cash has had three starts for a win and two placings. This is the first time he is stepping up in distance and he looks like he will appreciate the mile. He was narrowly defeated at this track last time out over 1400 and with luck in running from an outside barrier will be one of the main chances.

Doomben Preview

Today I’m racing at Doomben where it’s the QLD Winter Carnival. The rail is out 4.5 metres and the track is rated good.

Race 1 is the WILPAK WHOLESALE MEATS BenchMark 95 Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is ECHO EFFECT who is trained by Kristen Buchanan. I rode this horse last start where he finished second following on from a freshen up and the stable was confident he would run well. He has been kept to a benchmark race here where he has come up with a tricky barrier draw and is stepping up slightly in distance. I will have a better understanding of him having ridden him previously as he has a tendency to be keen in running. If we have luck from the draw and he races kindly for me and can conserve his energy, he is a horse that will take a lot of beating.

Race 2 is the Group 3 MULLINS LAWYERS GRAND PRIX STAKES over 2200 metres for three year olds, my ride here is OMINECA who is trained by Chris Waller. This gelding by Makfi is raced by Qatar Bloodstock. I rode him last start when he made heavy contact with the barriers when jumping from the gates and sliced my knee, he was slowly away from the machines missing the start by six lengths. He gave me a really nice ride throughout the race and wasn’t beaten far given the circumstances. Having drawn a better barrier here, provided he can jump cleanly at the start and travels in the same way as last start, he will be one of the main chances at the end of this staying trip.

Race 3 is the Group 3 CHANNEL SEVEN PREMIER'S CUP over 2200 metres, my ride here is MAURUS who is trained by John Thompson. This seven year old gelding by Medicean is raced by Waratah Thoroughbreds. He has drawn a nice inside barrier, is stepping up in distance and is racing at a track and distance that he has been successful at previously. His form over this distance range is very good and on his best form he is going to take a lot of beating in this competitive edition of The Premier’s Cup.

Race 4 is the WFA Group 3 PROGRAMMED PROPERTY SERVICES LORD MAYOR'S CUP over 1630 metres, my ride here is COLDSTONE who is trained by Mick Kent. I rode him last start when he gave me a nice ride at Doomben and was beaten less than two lengths in a Listed race. The weight for age conditions of this race are not an advantage to him based on his rating but nevertheless this doesn’t look like a traditional WFA field. From an inside barrier draw he will make his own luck and he will appreciate any give in the track.

Race 5 is the Group 2 MITAVITE BRC SIRES' PRODUCE STAKES over 1350 metres for two year olds, my ride here is MISCHIEVOUSMARILYNwho is trained by Kelly Schweida. This filly by Real Saga is raced by Ramsay Pastoral. Her two runs this preparation have given me confidence and although she is a maiden she has been closing her races off solidly. She is a horse that settles in the second half of the field and if the track is playing evenly and the race is run to suit her, I expect she will be closing off late.

Race 6 is the Group 3 GLENLOGAN PARK STAKES over 1350 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is DANISH TWIST who is trained by Kris Lees. At her last start she was beaten by just over a length and a half in a strong race in the same grade. She has drawn an outside barrier and is a horse that usually gets back in running. On her best form and with some luck, she will be one of the main chances in this highly competitive fillies and mares race.

Race 8 is the Group 1 TREASURY BRISBANE QUEENSLAND OAKS over 2200 metres for three year old fillies, my ride here is PROTEST who is trained by Bryan & Daniel Guy. This filly by Smart Missile is raced by Aquis Farm. She has had one win and a second placing from her eight starts. She is a filly that likes to get back and run on in her races. She has drawn a wide barrier here and looks like she will be giving the leaders a head start. Her racing pattern and recent form suggest she appreciates the distance and her last start second placing was a solid effort.

Race 9 is the Group 3 SKY RACING FRED BEST CLASSIC over 1350 metres, my ride here is THE MISSION who is trained by Paul Perry. This colt by Choisir is raced by Aquis Farm and partners. All of his runs this preparation have been at Group 1 and 2 level, WFA or against the older horses. He has been running well and is coming back to his own age group here. With favourable conditions for him under the set weights as he is the highest rated horse in this event, he looks well placed. He will need luck from the draw but I believe he is the strongest horse and if the track is playing evenly he will take a lot of beating.

Doomben Preview

Today I’m racing at Doomben where it’s the QLD Winter Carnival. The track is rated good and the rail is out 2 metres.

Race 3 is the CANADIAN CLUB BenchMark 75 Handicap over 1350 metres for two year old fillies, my ride here is SKULDUGGERY who is trained by Damien Batters. This five year old gelding by Krupt races in the Australian Thoroughbred Bloodstock colours. He is having his first start for his new trainer and has drawn a wide barrier for his first up assignment. On his best form in Melbourne he would be a horse that would be closing off strongly over the concluding stages. He is a horse that will improve throughout his campaign as he steps up in distance to his most effective range.

Race 5 is the Listed IPG MARKETING SOLUTIONS CHIEF DE BEERS over 1050 metres, my ride here is KHALAMAwho is trained by KHALAMA Tony Gollan. This mare by Starspangledbanner is raced by Allan Bell. Her form last preparation was solid and she resumed with a pleasing first up effort on May 5^thwhere she was only beaten by three lengths. She has drawn favourably in barrier two which is advantageous over this distance on this track. There is a lot of speed and early pressure in this race and she generally settles in the mid to second half of the field. She comes into this strong race on the minimum weight and on her best form can be competitive.

Race 6 is the JAPAN RACING ASSOCIATION QTIS 3YO Plate over 1200 metres run under set weight conditions, my ride here is PROM QUEENwho is trained by Kenny Rae in New Zealand. This filly by Super Easy is having her first run in Australia and she has an excellent record having had 13 starts for 8 wins and a third placing. She was undefeated in her first two starts before running third, she then went on to win at her next six starts. It has been her four most recent runs that have seen her finish out of the placings, she started favourite in the Group 1 Guineas where she didn’t run out the 1600 metres. She started this preparation off with a good first up effort over 1200 metres where she was beaten by half a length before being disappointing at her next run. She come into this race well placed under the set weights conditions as she is a horse who has amassed a good amount of prizemoney and has 8 wins to her name. If she finds her best form and has luck from an outside draw she is the horse they will have to run down.

Race 7 is the Group 3 FLIGHT CENTRE BRC SPRINT over 1350 metres, my ride here is PRIVLAKAwho is trained by Robert Heathcote. This Mossman gelding was beaten less than three lengths at his most recent run in the Group 2 Victory Stakes run under WFA conditions. He comes into this with a good barrier, minimum weight and is a horse that will appreciate the step up in distance. Even though this is a very strong field I feel he will take a lot of beating on his home track.

Race 8 is the feature race of the day, the Group 1 HARDY BROTHERS DOOMBEN CUP over 2000 metres, my ride here is AMBITIOUS who is trained by Anthony Freedman. This entire by Deep Impact is raced by Ozzie Kheir and partners. His three runs since arriving to Australia have seen him improve each time. He made good natural progress from his first up run to when I rode him in the Group 1 Tancred Stakes where he was narrowly beaten. At his most recent run in the Group 1 Queen Elizabeth Stakes he pulled up missing three of his four shoes, over raced during running and was galloped on behind, so he clearly had excuses. If he brings his former Japanese form to this race, he will not be beaten.

Race 9 is the Listed AMGROW BRIGHT SHADOW QUALITY for fillies and mares over 1200 metres, my ride here isPOMELOwho is trained by Gwenda Markwell. This mare by Lope de Vega is lightly raced and has been very consistent throughout her career. She was competitive in the Provincial Championship over the Sydney Autumn and at her most recent start sat on speed before compounding over the concluding stages and was disappointing. Most of the horses here have similar form lines to her and if she can regain her previous good form and has luck from an outside draw can be competitive here.

Sandown Preview

Today I’m racing at Sandown, we are on the Hillside track and the rail is out 5 metres.

Race 2 is the Ladbrokes Odds Boost Exotics Handicap over 1000 metres for two year old fillies, my ride here is KOBE PRINCESS who is trained by Luke Oliver. This filly by Reward For Effort is lightly raced having had two lifetime starts and will be racing on a soft track for the first time in her career. She finished third at her debut run on March 21^stbefore finishing in second placing at Werribee on April 7^th. She has shown a good amount of natural speed in her races that have been over 1100 and comes back in distance here. Although she has drawn a wide barrier there is only one dog-leg turn which usually doesn’t cause too much of a disadvantage. It is a highly competitive field with the majority of runners having no exposed form. With race experience in my horses favour and the drop back in distance I expect her to be competitive.

Race 5 is the Polytrack Handicap BM70 over 1400 metres, my ride here is VITANI who is trained by Wendy Kelly. This filly by Animal Kingdom as had three runs for two seconds and a win. Her most recent start saw her win at Sandown over 1300 metres and I was pleased with her effort on that occasion as I have always had a big opinion of her. She has been well placed by her trainer and has been allowed plenty of time to mature and develop naturally. She comes into this four weeks between runs and will be full of confidence following on from her last start victory. She steps up slightly in distance which will suit her and I have always been confident that the step up in distance, along with her breeding, that she will appreciate the soft track conditions. I am looking for to riding to her as I believe she will progress to black type level. She looks well placed in this race where she will carry a light weight and this the horse to beat.

Race 6 is the Dream Thoroughbreds Handicap BM78 for mares over 1400 metres, my ride here is EVIL LIL who is trained by Lee and Shannon Hope. This seven year old mare by Hold That Tiger has been racing consistently throughout her career and has won or placed a total of 10 times out of her 27 starts. She is very effective on soft ground and has only been out of the top three on one occasion from seven starts. She closed off well first up when resuming at Caulfield on April 21^st, stays at the same distance here and has the advantage of racing on her preferred surface. She generally runs well second up however hasn’t registered a placing from her four attempts. With luck from an outside barrier draw, on her best form on this type of surface she will be one of the main chances.

Doomben Preview

Today I’m racing at Doomben where it’s the start of the Brisbane Winter Carnival.

Race 1 is the SWIRE SHIPPING Class 6 Plate over 1110 metres, my ride here is ECHO EFFECT who is trained by Kristen Buchanan. This gelding by Reset looks very well placed under the conditions of this race as he is an 88 rated horse who comes into this two kilos off the minimum, he has also been placed in Group 2 and 3 company last preparation. If he finds that form and is able to close off from back in the field he will be very strong over the concluding stages. His recent barrier trial where he finished behind English suggests he is in good form and will take a lot of beating.

Race 3 is the IPG MARKETING SOLUTIONS MEMBERS' HANDICAP over 1600 metres at Listed grade, my ride here is COLDSTONE who is trained by Mick Kent. This French import by Gold Away is having his first run in Brisbane following on from racing consistently in Melbourne in preparation for this. He will appreciate the drying track conditions here and has come up with a favourable barrier draw. I have ridden him previously at Caulfield in the Lord Stakes over 1700 metres where he produced a solid effort and finished third. I feel racing over the 1600 from an inside barrier should give him every chance and he is well weighted here only carrying one kilo above the minimum.

Race 4 is the ASCOT GREEN CHAIRMAN'S HANDICAP over 2000 metres, my ride here is KAHARAU who is trained by Kenny Rae. This gelding by Ad Valorem won three starts ago over 2400 metres and on that occasion he beat Sir Charles Road who went on to be placed in the Sydney Cup. On those credentials and running over a distance that has seen him successful previously, with the added benefit of an inside barrier draw, he will give himself every opportunity.

Race 7 is the Group 2 MAGIC MILLIONS THE ROSES over 2000 metres for three year old fillies, my ride here is CHILLY CHA CHA who is trained by Kris Lees. She comes to Brisbane with solid Sydney form as she ran third in the Group 3 Adrian Knox before running eighth in the Group 1 ATC Oaks. She comes back in distance to the 2000 here and from an inside draw will be able to take advantage of the barrier to find her usual on-speed position. She also has the blinkers removed from her head gear.

Race 8 is the Group 1 W.F.A KIRIN DOOMBEN 10,000 over 1200 metres, my ride here is SPIETH who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This entire by Thorn Park is raced by Aquis Farm and partners. He has recently been purchased by his new owners as a stallion prospect and is having his first start for the new stable. I rode this horse at the start of his preparation and have had four rides on him for two wins and a second. I haven’t ridden him for a couple of seasons and I am very much looking forward to riding him again. He has drawn a wide barrier however the more early speed and pressure that is applied to the leaders, the better chance that will give him. He has been narrowly defeated at Group 1 level previously and on his best form and with luck in running can make his presence felt here if the race is run to suit.

Race 9 is the Group 3 MITTYS ROUGH HABIT PLATE over 2000 metres for three year olds, my ride here is OMINECA who is trained by Chris Waller. This gelding by Makfi is raced by Qatar Bloodstock. He is a lightly raced galloper who has had only three lifetime starts. He won his maiden two starts ago when he was ridden in the second half of a small field over 1600 metres. At his most recent run over 1630 metres, from a wide barrier draw he was given a very economical run in transit as he cut the corner at the top of the straight and closed the race off nicely to finish in third placing. He now steps up in trip which looks like it will suit him but again has drawn an outside barrier. I will be interested to see what my instructions are from the draw as there doesn’t look to be too much pressure on paper. I’m looking forward to seeing how he parades pre-race as he is a progressive type who might be a contender to run in the QLD Derby later in the carnival.

Morphettville Preview

Today I’m racing at Morphettville where is the first weekend of their May Carnival.

Race 4 is the Group 2 UBET Euclase Stakes over 1200 metres for three year olds, my ride here is NATURE STRIP who is trained by John Sadler. This Nicconi gelding is raced by Rod Lyons and partners. He is a lightly raced galloper who in his six lifetime starts has not been out of the top two placings, producing four wins. The two occasions he has been beaten have both been by Sam’s Image at Moonee Valley and Caulfield. I rode him in his first up run this preparation when he finished second at Caulfield from an inside draw. We tried for him to take a sit behind the speed and unfortunately he over-raced badly which took its toll in the end. He has given me the feel of a top line sprinter if he does everything right. He races second up here and has come up with a nice barrier in gate 4. This will be his first attempt at 1200 metres and with the benefit of having ridden him previously under raceday conditions, I think all going well and he races kindly for me, they won’t beat him.

Race 6 is the Group 1 Schweppes Oaks over 2000 metres for three year old fillies, my ride here is TEMPLE OF BEL who is trained by Tony McEvoy. This filly by Bel Esprit is raced in the colours of Briarwood Farm. I rode here last time at Caulfield where she ran against the males in the VOBIS Sires race. I loved the way she ran so well and the natural improvement she took from her first up run. She was having her first start for a new trainer on that day and was beaten by an official margin of 0.1 length. She steps up in distance here which I think will suit her. She has drawn a wide barrier and is a horse that gets back in running giving the leaders a head start and needs luck. If luck goes our way, I expect her to be one of the strongest horses late.

Race 7 is the W.F.A Group 1 UBET Classic over 1200 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is SUPER CASH who is trained by Andrew Noblet. This mare by Written Tycoon races first up here after winning the Rubiton Stakes in February. Her first up record is excellent having had six starts for five wins and a placing when racing fresh. Her most effective distance range is between 1100 – 1200 and she is adaptable on all racing surfaces. She is such a consistent mare who has been successful at Group 2 level but is yet to win at the highest grade. I know she has the ability to win a Group 1 race and I would be delighted to win this for her connections and her trainer Andrew Noblet.

Race 8 is the Group 2 Hughes Limousines Queen Of The South Stakes over 1600 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is JESTER HALO who is trained by Darren Kolpin. This mare by Sharkbite has unfortunately come up with an outside barrier but has a versatile racing pattern where she has been ridden with success on and off the speed. We will need luck from the draw but if she can run up to the good form she showed in February and March when competing in Group races, she is the horse they all have to beat.

Morphettville Preview

Today I’m racing at Morphettville where is the first weekend of their May Carnival.

Warrnambool Preview

Today I’m racing at Warrnambool and it’s the final day of the three day May Carnival. The rail has been moved out to the 4 metre position and with rain forecast it will be interested to see how the track races throughout the day.

Race 2 is the No Fuss Event Hire 2YO Handicapover 1200 metres, my ride here is TEE TRAIN who is trained by Symon Wilde. The ownership group and trainer have won two of the last three editions of this race and I won this event last year on their horse. This colt by Savabeel is having his first lifetime start and I hope for the success in this race to continue. I am looking forward to seeing how this colt presents in the mounting yard on his home track as I haven’t seen him previously.

Race 3 is the Schweppes F&M BM78 Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is FLORIDA PEARL who is trained by Symon Wilde. This mare by Bianconi was scratched from yesterday in preference for this event. This is a small but select field and she comes into this race with excellent first up form, proven statistics at the course and distance and on soft ground. Although she has drawn a wide barrier she usually races on-speed making her own luck and should take a lot of beating.

Race 4 is the Ludeman Real Estate BM64 Handicap over 2000 metres, my ride here is VON RICHTER who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This mare by Von Costa de Hero has been racing consistently this preparation and if she can be forgiven for her disappointing last start she would have to be one of the main chances. The only consideration I would have would be if the track is rain affected as she has never been tried on that ground and is out of a Jeune mare.

Race 5 is the The Standard BM78 Handicap over 1100 metres, my ride here is HIGHLAND BEAT who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This Exceed And Excel gelding has been a model of consistency throughout his racing career. Although he has drawn the widest barrier here he is versatile in his racing pattern and has been effective when ridden both on-speed and from behind, it will be interesting to see how the track is racing and what my instructions are. On his best form, with luck from the draw, he would be one of the main chances.

Race 8 is the Mercedes Benz Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is ARKHAM KNIGHT who is trained by John Macmillan. This gelding by Reaan has been racing in good form of late and has competed at Listed grade at three of his last five starts. He comes into this race on the minimum weight and with the gear change of blinkers off and winkers on. He has good form on soft ground, has drawn a middle barrier and stepping up to this distance has had two starts for one win. Watching his replays, he is a horse that seems to makes his own luck and on his best form is the horse to beat.

Race 9 is the Listed Sungold Milk Warrnambool Cup over 2350 metres, my ride here is YOGI who is trained by Darren Weir. This gelding by Raise The Flag is raced by Darren Dance of Australian Thoroughbred Bloodstock. He comes into this race third up and is stepping up to his right distance range for this campaign. He has excellent form on soft ground and at his most recent run I rode him on a heavy 10 in the Terang Cup in preparation for this. I felt like he would take further improvement from that run and I am looking forward to riding him here as he drops to the minimum weight for this assignment. He is a horse that gets back in running giving the leaders a big head start. I am pleased with the way he has developed physically and mentally from last preparation and I expect him to give a very forward showing here today.