Warrnambool Preview

Today I’m racing at Warrnambool and it’s the second day of the May Carnival. The track raced well yesterday and horses started to get off the fence late in the day. The rail remains in the same position.

Race 2 is the Warrnambool Football Netball Club Maiden Plate over 1700 metres, my ride here is TWO BILLS who is trained by Symon Wilde. He is a lightly raced gelding who had two starts last preparation. He races fresh here and has drawn an economical barrier for his first up assignment. He looks like a strong galloping horse who will be suited by the 1700 metres. If he can utilise his good barrier he will take a lot of beating.

Race 5 is the Bottle-O Warrnambool 3YO Maiden Plate over 1700 metres, my ride here is CREATIVE HARMONY who is trained by John Sadler. This gelding by Denman is raced by David Yu. He has been progressing nicely this preparation, races fourth up here and has the blinkers added for the first time. He has come up with a wide barrier, which I don’t think will be too much of a disadvantage in this small field. If the addition of blinkers has the desired effect he is the horse to beat.

Race 7 is the Silvan Ridge Futurity 3YO BM70 Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is ORIENTAL GIFT who is trained by Mathew Ellerton & Simon Zahra. He ran extremely well in a maiden two starts ago that has proven to be a good form race before going on to win his maiden at Cranbourne last time out. He was keen in the early stages of that event in a slowly run race and showed good acceleration late when gaining an inside run. He comes into this with confidence from his last start victory and should appreciate the slight step up in distance. This is a strong benchmark race but I expect he can make his presence felt.

Race 8 is the feature flat race of the day, the Listed Midfield Group Wangoom Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is DEMONSTRATE who is trained by my father and brother Allan & Jason Williams and my wife is the managing owner. He has won two of his last three starts and at his most recent run was beaten by less than a length at Caulfield. He has been in great form since joining the stable and is a horse with good soft track form who will appreciate today’s conditions. He is well placed here in this handicap race and will carry 1.5 kilos above the minimum. He has drawn an inside barrier and by the time this race jumps we will have a good understanding of how the track is playing. He tends to get back throughout the early stages of his races and always needs luck. On his best form, he is one of the main changes in this strong edition of the Wangoom Handicap. 

Warrnambool Preview

Today I’m racing at Warrnambool and it’s the first day of their three day Carnival. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated in the soft range.

Race 5 is the Callaghan Motors VOBIS Gold Strike for two year old fillies over 1000 metres, my ride here is WRITE ENUFF who is trained by Ken Keys. This filly by Written Tycoon is a full sister to Rich Enuff who was a top three year old throughout this racing career. I have ridden her in a jumpout at Cranbourne and was pleased with the feel she gave me on a track that was in the heavy range. Although at times she can be a highly-strung filly, she has shown good natural ability and with luck from a wide barrier, if she can bring her trial form to the races, she will take a lot of beating as I am also confident she will handle the soft ground here today.

Race 7 is the Cally Hotel BM78 Handicap over 2350 metres, my ride here is POW WOW who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This four year old import by Medicean is having his fourth run this campaign and steps up to a distance range that has seen him successful in Europe. He has shown glimpses of good form in two out of his three runs and if he regains his previous form over the distance range is going to take a lot of beating from a favourable barrier draw.

Race 9 is the Carlton Draught BM64 Handicap over 1000 metres, my ride here is DASH OF PASH who is trained by Symon Wilde. This mare by Dash For Cash is lightly raced having had four starts for a win and a placing. She won her maiden first up last preparation and is resuming here. She has come up with a favourable barrier draw and in this competitive race will be one of the main chances on her home track.

Race 10 is the iDetect BM70 Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is DUECOURSE who is trained by Bill Wilde. She is a progressive mare by Duporth who from her six starts has only missed the top two on one occasion. I rode her two starts ago when she finished second at Sandown on February 7th over 1400 metres where she was beaten by an official margin of 0.1 length. Since then she has had her races spaced and at her most recent run finished second at the same course and distance on March 29th. Although she has drawn a wide barrier, with luck from the draw, she will be winning this as she looks very well placed with the 2 kilos allowance for mares in her favour.

Caulfield Preview

Today we are racing at Caulfield where the track is rated good and the rail is out 3 metres.

Race 1 is a three year old fillies handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is DIAMOND BOW who is trained by Wendy Kelly. This filly by Sebring is lightly raced and has won or placed at two of her four lifetime starts. Her official trial at Cranbourne and her first up run were both pleasing where she closed off well at Sandown over 1200. She now steps sharply up in distance and although this is her first time over the mile, the way she is relaxing and racing this preparation looks well placed here. Although she has drawn the outside gate she settles in the second half of the field, she will carry the minimum weight here and I am looking forward to riding her over this distance.

Race 2 is a mares race over 1200 metres, my ride here is HEAR THE CHANT who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This mare by Nicconi is race by Devitt and Gordon and wears the well know pink and royal blue diagonal stripe colours. She won first up this preparation and her subsequent two starts have also been very good. She comes into this race with the blinkers on for the first time and although she has drawn a wide barrier, if she doesn’t have to do too much work to take up an on-speed position in the early stages will take a lot of running down.

Race 4 is a BM70 handicap over 1100 metres, my ride here is ANNRHON who is trained by Heath Conners. This mare by Von Costa de Hero races first up here and has a good record when resuming. She has also won twice and finished third out of six attempts over the distance. She has had a recent jumpout at Terang where she looked in good form to have her ready for this assignment. She has come up with an outside draw in a race where there looks to be a good amount of pressure and speed on paper. Hopefully they run along and spread out which will make my job easier from the draw. She is an honest mare, who on her best form will be one of the main chances in this competitive field.

Race 5 is three year old handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is SHE’S POPULAR who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes, Dabernig team. This filly by Savabeel races in the Chittick colours of Waikato Stud. She won on debut at Kilmore where she went forward and made all the running. She then stepped up to Group 3 company where I rode her at Flemington and was lost up the straight for the first time. She then stepped up in distance to 1400 and put in a pleasing effort when finishing second. She is first up here and resumes with a favourable barrier draw and will carry the minimum weight in this field where she is taking on the boys. There was the option to run against her own sex but the team have chosen to run in the open three year old class. I am looking forward to riding her and seeing how she has developed and matured from her first preparation.

Race 6 is the Listed Redoute’s Choice Stakes for two year olds over 1200 metres, my ride here is DALSWINTON who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes, Dabernig team. This colt by Denman is also raced by Devitt and Gordon. I was impressed with his first up run at Bendigo where he got back in the field and closed off well. He had the benefit an inside drawn on that day and has drawn wide here today. I am looking forward to seeing him parade pre-race and expect with natural improvement from his first up run he can be one of the horses that is closing off strongly in this very competitive field.

Race 7 is a three year old fillies handicap over 1100 metres, my ride here is CHATEAU GRIFFO who is trained by Robbie Griffiths. This filly Sebring races in the colours of Australian Thoroughbred Bloodstock. She is a filly that is highly regarded by the stable and in her six starts to date has only missed the top three on two occasions and in all of her starts with the exception of her most recent run, has started favourite. I feel she didn’t handle the way the race was run last time out at Sandown and she looked to struggle down the hill. I feel she will appreciate the flat Caulfield surface and although she has drawn an outside barrier, if her last run can be forgiven, on her best form is one of the main chances in this very competitive race.

Race 8 is a BM84 over 1400 metres, my ride here is CARRAIG AONAIR who is also trained by the Hayes, Hayes, Dabernig team. This gelding by Fastnet Rock is race by Australian Thoroughbred Bloodstock. I have won on him twice and finished second on him over the Flemington Carnival in the Spring. He is a horse that will improve sharply from his first up run as he is better over further and is gradually stepping up to his preferred distance range. His second up form is very good and from a middle gate, with luck in running should be thereabouts.

Race 9 is BM84 handicap over 2000 metres, my ride here is HURSLEY who is trained by Chris Waller. This gelding by Makfi races in the Qatar Bloodstock colours. I have been successful on him on a number of occasions and he is a horse who really appreciates soft ground. Although he won’t get that here today he has also won on a good surface. I expect him to improve from his first up run and he is now stepping up to his preferred distance on a track that he races extremely well at. I expect him to be one of the main chances against this strong field. 

Flemington Preview

Today is ANZAC Day, the day we celebrate and remember the sacrifices made by so many men and women in the armed services and their families during the wars which enable us to have our freedom and our great country to be as it is today.

We race at Flemington where the track is rated good and the rail is out 10 metres.

Race 1 is the Flt Lt Peter Armytage Handicap over 2530 metres for four year olds and upwards, my ride here is CHARLEVOIX who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This gelding by New Approach hasn’t won for over 300 days. I have been successful on him previously and on other occasions have ridden him with no luck. From an inside draw and with the minimum weight here, if he can regain his good form can be competitive in this race. He has had an official hurdle trial since his most recent effort at Bendigo which will help to keep him sharp and focused for this event.

Race 2 is the Battle of Villers-Bretonneux Handicap over 1800 metres, my ride here is JACQUINOT BAY who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This horse would be the omen runner of the day given Jacquinot Bay was a landing site in WW2 where the allied forces and notably the Australian fifth division secured that bay as a supply route to help the allied forces against Japan. This horse is a well performed ten year old gelding who has won over a million dollars in stakes money. If we forgive his most recent run which was out of character for him and he runs to his better form he can be competitive here again.

Race 3 is the Listed ANZAC Day Stakes for two year olds over 1400 metres, my ride here is GREEN IVY who is trained by Ken Keys. This gelding by Fighting Sun is raced by Ken and his daughter Casey. He has had two lifetime starts and I have ridden him on both occasions. He is having the blinkers added to his head gear here for the first time and stays at the same distance as his most recent run at Sandown. He has drawn the outside barrier and I will be interested to see what my instructions are from the draw given he has jumped slowly from the barriers in both of his runs. If the track is racing fairly and he has luck from the draw I expect him to be one of the main chances.

Race 4 is the Battle of Coral-Balmoral Handicap a BM84 for fillies and mares over 1620 metres, my ride here is DOMINO VITALE who is trained by Colin Little. I have ridden this mare with success previously and she is most effective in this distance range having won six races over the mile, she is also a winner at this course and distance. This is a competitive field however on her best form she will be in this for a long way if we have luck from an outside draw.

Race 5 is the William Newton VC Handicap over 1720 metres for three year olds, my ride here is NOTHIN’ LEICA HIGH who is trained by Robbie Griffiths. This gelding by High Chaparral stared this preparation off when winning first up at Pakenham over 1600 metres on April 12^th. He steps up in grade and drops in weight here where he carries the minimum. Unfortunately, he too has come up with a tricky barrier draw having drawn wider than mid-field. This is a highly competitive field and I will be interested to see how he presents in the yard and if he has taken improvement from his first up run. This race will provide a good guide on possible targets throughout the Winter months.

Race 6 is the feature race of the day, the Listed VRC St Leger for three year olds over 2800 metres, my ride here is ASTORIA who is trained by James Cummings. This colt by Medaglia d’Oro is raced by Godolphin. He is coming back in grade here having raced in the Group 1 ATC Derby at his most recent run and prior to that finished second in the Group 2 Tulloch Stakes behind Levendi, who subsequently is now a Group 1 winner. He is stepping up in distance to the 2800 for the first time and can be forgiven for his failure in the Debry. He is a high quality colt and if he can run out the extended trip will be winning this.

Race 7 is the Auckland Racing Club Trophy for three year olds over 1400 metres, my ride here is EVIL CRY who is trained by Robbie Laing. This colt by Street Cry runs in the colours of the Montague family. I rode him in an official trial at the start of this preparation and he gave me the feel of a colt that could progress to Stakes grade. He has had three starts since that trial and has won his past two runs. He steps up in grade here and has come up with a favourable barrier draw and will carry the minimum weight. I expect him to be full of confidence following his past two wins, he will also appreciate the step up in distance and will be hard to beat if he can get clear galloping room in the straight.

Race 8 is the ANZAC Appeal Handicap a BM84 handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is BRAHMOS who is trained by John Sadler. This gelding by Smart Missile is raced by Owen Egan and partners. He has been a model of consistency this preparation and has had three starts over the distance for two wins and a second. This will be his first time racing up the straight and I will be mindful of that, he also has the blinkers removed from his head gear. He goes into this as one of the main chances and will be very hard to hold out given his recent good form. 

Caulfield Preview

Today I’m racing at Caulfield where the rail is in the true position and the track is rated good. It’s a terrific day of racing being the Victorian Owners and Breeders Race Day, showcasing the VOBIS and VOBIS Gold Schemes.

Race 1 is the Heritage Finance VOBIS Gold Distaff over 1400 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is FUDGED who is trained by Cindy Alderson. This mare by Casino Price is racing first up here and has a good record when racing fresh and she has won previously over the distance. She has drawn an outside barrier and with luck from the draw can be very competitive.

Race 2 is the IRT VOBIS Gold Mile, my ride here is SWORD OF LIGHT who is trained by Mathew Ellerton & Simon Zahra. This mare by New Approach is raced by Contract Racing. She has been successful on two occasions at the course and distance from three starts. She took on a strong field in a Listed race last start where she was beaten by just over half a length. From a nice barrier draw in this small field she will make her own luck and will take a lot of running down. The form around her is strong with the first three horses that beat her home two starts ago also in this race.

Race 3 is the Avenel Equine Hospital 2YO VOBIS Sires over 1200 metres, my ride here is COZHECANCAN who is trained by Darren Weir. This colt by Canford Cliffs also races in the Contract Racing colours. His first lifetime start saw him finishing off strongly over the concluding stages at Ballarat on April 3^rd. He has drawn favourably in barrier 2 and having taken natural improvement from his first up run will be one of the main chances in this strong field of restricted two year olds.

Race 4 is the Goldners VOBIS Gold Heath over 2000 metres, my ride here is ROYAL ORDER who is trained by Mick Kent. He races third up here this preparation and has closed off well at both starts this time in. Although the favourite Kiwia will be hard to beat my horse has beaten him last preparation at Flemington over the same distance. Although he has drawn an outside gate he generally settles in the second half of the field. If the track is racing fairly and there is good speed throughout the early stages I expect him to be finishing off strongly in the straight.

Race 5 is the Yulong VOBIS Gold Dash over 1100 metres, my ride here is NATURE STRIP who is trained by John Sadler. This gelding by Nicconi is race by Rod Lyons and partners. He looks very well placed first up here on his home track over the 1100. He is an exciting sprinter that has won four of his five starts and in his only defeat finished second. I have ridden him recently in a jumpout and was impressed with the feel he gave me. He is a very professional gelding who has the ability to be a group class sprinter. He has come up with an inside barrier draw in this set weights and penalties race where he will carry 59 kilos. I feel he will be able to account for this field as he progresses towards Group races later in his career.

Race 6 is the Spendthrift Australia 3YO VOBIS Sires over 1600 metres, my ride here is TEMPLE OF BEL who is trained by Tony McEvoy. This filly by Bel Esprit is raced by Briarwood Farm. She races second up here for a new trainer and has won at the course and distance last year. I have ridden her in a trial and am looking forward to riding her under race day conditions. She is a horse that gets back in running so I am hoping there is a lot of pressure and speed in the early stages and she is able to make ground. If the race is run to suit she will be very strong late.

Race 7 is the Listed Ladbrokes Bel Esprit Stakes over 1100 metres, my ride here is PROPERTY who is trained by Henry Dwyer. This race is not restricted to VOBIS or VOBIS Gold horses. This three year old gelding by Starcraft is raced by Price Bloodstock. He is a quality galloper who finished fifth in the Blue Diamond Stakes as a two year old and is a dual Group 3 winner. He had two runs in the Spring where he ran first up against the older horses at Caulfield before going to Flemington where he was disappointing when running up the straight. He has a favourable barrier draw for his first up run and will carry the minimum weight of 54 kilos here where he is one of the main chances.

Race 8 is the Newmarket Grandwest VOBIS Gold Sprint over 1200 metres, my ride here is DEMONSTRATE who is trained by my father and brother Allan & Jason Williams. This gelding by New Approach is raced and managed by my wife. He has been racing in consistent fashion since joining the stable and has won his past two starts at Flemington and Moonee Valley. He has had a six week freshen up since his most recent run and has had the benefit of a recent jumpout in preparation for this assignment. With a rating of 95 he is well placed under the set weights conditions and I expect him to take a lot of beating.

Race 9 is the Listed TROA Anniversary Vase over 1400 metres, my ride here is FASTNET TEMPEST who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This race is not restricted to VOBIS or VOBIS Gold horses. This gelding by Fastnet Rock is raced by OTI Racing. This import was trained by William Haggas when he raced here through the Spring with his best performances a second before winning at Flemington on November 11^th over 1600 metres. If he can regain his Spring form he will be one of the main chances.

Pakenham Preview

Tonight I’m racing under lights at Racing.com park, Pakenham. The rail is in the true position and the turf track is rated good. Given the end of the turf night racing season is approaching I will be interested to walk the track and see how it may race as the rail was in the same position last meeting. As the weather is getting colder this grass blend tends to go dormant leading into the Winter months.

Race 1 is a maiden race for three year olds and upwards 1600 metres, my ride here is SUBUTAI who is trained by Danny O’Brien. This Pour Moi gelding races in the stable colours. I have had one ride on him when finishing second at the same distance and he has been racing in consistent fashion without winning, he has had eleven starts for five placings. He races first up here and has the benefit of a recent official trial at Cranbourne to help his fitness levels for this, it would be a good training effort if he is able to win first up over the 1600. There are a few strong chances in this race and on his best form he is one of those.

Race 2 is a maiden for three year olds and upwards over 1400 metres, my ride here is MULLIGAN FALLS who is trained by my father and brother Allan & Jason Williams. This three year old gelding by Hinchinbrook is raced by Price Bloodstock. He resumed with a pleasing effort at the same track where he was beaten by less than two lengths over 1200 metres on March 29^th. He had a tendency to hang in on that occasion and has had the winkers removed here this evening. He steps up in distance, however, we have the outside barrier to contend with. With luck in running from the draw he will take a lot of beating in this event.

Race 3 is a maiden plate for three year olds over 1200 metres, my ride here is THE ROUSEABOUT who is trained by Cindy Alderson. This gelding by Hard Spun has had two lifetime starts where he finished second on debut at Sandown over 1300 metres and finished third at this most recent run when stepping up in distance to 1400. He comes back to the 1200 here and having drawn an outside barrier I would assume my instructions will be to go back and save him for one late burst. If the track is playing fairly and they are able to make ground I expect him to by finishing strongly over the concluding stages.

Race 5 is a Class 1 over 1200 metres, my ride here is WASSERGEIST who is trained by Trent Busuttin & Natalie Young. This three year old colt by Fastnet Rock runs in Shane Baertschiger’s colours. I have had two rides on him last preparation when running second before winning his maiden on him at Sandown. The stable feels he appreciates a firmer surface and is better on top of the ground, so hopefully the conditions suit him here this evening. He competed in Group and Listed grade in the Spring and gained a black type placing. He is clearly the horse with the best credentials in this field and although he has 60kgs the spread of weights is relative to his rivals and he looks well placed here.

Race 7 is a BM70 over 1600 metres, my ride here is BALCAZAR who is trained by Lee and Shannon Hope. I rode him at his most recent start over 1800 metres where he closed off strongly to finish third and he drops back in distance to the 1600 here. He is a horse that tends to settled in the mid to second half of the field and needs luck in running. He also can hang in when placed under pressure so needs to be balanced to produce his best, I feel the spacious track will suit his racing style. There doesn’t look to be much speed on paper and he has drawn an outside barrier. If the track is racing fairly with no bias I expect him to run a competitive race and be finishing off strongly.  

Sandown Preview

Today I’m racing at Sandown on the Lakeside circuit. The track is rated good with the rail out 5 metres.

Race 1 is a maiden for three year olds over 1300 metres, my ride here is VITANI who is trained by Wendy Kelly. This filly by Animal Kingdom has had two starts and finished second on both occasions. Her first start saw her beaten by a subsequent Group 3 placegetter in Harmattan, who then went on to run well in the Adrian Knox Stakes at Randwick on the opening day of The Championships. At her next run, she was beaten by the impressive gelding in Usain Bowler who looks to have above average ability, so she has run into two progressive horses at both starts. She has found another strong maiden race here and from a middle barrier draw I expect her to be winning this given the strong form lines from her previous starts.

Race 4 is a BM64 over 1600 metres, my ride here is THE SLEDGEHAMMER who is trained by John Sadler. This gelding by So You Think is raced by Dennis Pagan. I have ridden him twice at the end of his last preparation and finished second against the older horses over 2000 metres at Cranbourne and then in the Group 2 Moonee Valley Vase. His first up effort was at Sandown on April 2^nd and he stays at the same distance again here. He is a horse that seems to get back in his races and closes off strongly. I expect him to be competitive in this BM64 race although he is a maiden taking on the older horses. He is a horse with a nice future that will appreciate racing over further as he progresses through his campaign.

Race 5 is a BM78 handicap over 2100 metres, my ride here is SEATTLE PARK who is trained by Mick Kent. I have had one ride on this Reset gelding when he finished second in a maiden at Geelong over 1300. He went on to win his maiden two starts later over 1500 metres. He is a horse that has been racing well over the staying distances. If his form from two starts ago measures up here he is capable of winning this with a nice draw and the minimum weight.

Race 6 is a BM64 race for three year old fillies over 1400 metres, my ride here is DENTAL who is trained by Leon & Troy Corstens. This filly by Fastnet Rock is raced by Pinecliff Racing. I have ridden her at her past two starts and at Sandown on March 14^th rode her quietly from an outside barrier draw with the tongue tie on for the first time, where she stayed on nicely. At her most recent start at the same course she drew a better barrier and maintained a position behind the leaders and was beaten less than three lengths. She has pacifiers added to her head gear here for the first time and having drawn favourably in barrier two can make her presence felt.

Race 7 is a BM70 over 1400 metres, my ride here is WHAT A SHOCK who is trained by Mathew Ellerton & Simon Zahra. This gelding by Shocking runs in the First Light Racing colours. He has strong form lines around him from his last preparation and his most recent run where he dropped back in distance to 1200 metres at Moonee Valley was pleasing and he finished the race off well. He now steps up in distance to a range where he has been effective in the past and should appreciate the spacious Sandown track. The horse that beat him at his most recent run went on to win again at Cranbourne on Friday night by 5 lengths. He has drawn well and with the form lines around him proving strong I expect him to be one of the main chance.

Race 8 is a BM70 for fillies and mares over 1200 metres, my ride here is MAHLANI who is trained by Andrew Noblet. This Swiss Ace three year old is raced by the Alteri family and Gerry Harvey. This filly ran in a Group 2 race at the end of her last preparation over 1400 metres at Caulfield suggesting the stable has a high opinion of her. Her first up effort was over 1100 metres and she steps up in distance here second up. She is lightly raced and won her maiden over 1100 metres as a two year old. From an inside barrier she should get every favour here and with the minimum weight, although she is taking on older, more seasoned mares, on her best form can be competitive. 

Terang Preview

This afternoon I’m racing at Terang where it’s their feature race meeting. I haven’t ridden at Terang for many years and I’m looking forward to riding there again today.

Race 6 is the Sungold Terang Cup over 2150 metres, my ride here is Yogi who is trained by Darren Weir. This gelding by Raise The Flag is raced by Australian Thoroughbred Bloodstock. I rode him throughout most of his last preparation and was successful on him. He is a very relaxed horse in running and is a horse that is hard to get motivated to travel. He seemed to appreciate racing over extended trips and on spacious tracks which saw him successful at Sandown and Flemington. His first up effort at Caulfield was pleasing as he handled the track well and although was slow out travelled strongly throughout the early stages. I am looking forward to seeing how he parades pre-race and if he has matured mentally and physically. He has come up with a wide barrier draw and will appreciate the rain affected track conditions. I am looking forward to riding him and he will progress on to the Warrnambool Cup after this run.

Race 8 is a BM78 handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is Sabotage who is trained by Symon Wilde. I have been impressed with him performances since his arrival from New Zealand and his most recent effort was the only time he has finished out of the top four when he stepped up in distance. He now come back in distance and from a middle barrier is the horse the others will have to beat. 

Randwick Preview

Today I’m racing at Randwick where it’s the second day of The Championships. The track is rated good and the rail is out three metres.

Race 4 is the Polytrack Provincial Championships Final over 1400 metres, my ride here is Mandylion who is trained by Gwenda Markwell. This three year old filly by Nicconi is taking on the older horses which she did with success last time out, ensuring her of a start in this series final. She has shown good speed in her four starts to date and is a filly that settles on pace. Her last start effort was solid and from an inside draw here will be in this for a long way against what is a highly competitive field.

Race 6 is the Group 1 James Boag’s Premium Australasian Oaks for three year old fillies over 2400 metres, my ride here is Contessa Vanessa who is trained by Graeme Rogerson. This filly by Bullbars is the most experienced runner in the race having had 18 lifetime starts. She has won two of her past three runs and at her most recent effort was second in the Group 1 NZ Oaks over 2400. The stable has reported that she has improved since her arrival from New Zealand. From a nice barrier draw here she will make her own luck in running and is a filly that is very tough and tenacious in her racing style.

Race 7, the feature race of the day is the W.F.A Group 1 Longines Queen Elizabeth Stakes 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 Japanese form is far superior to any horse we have seen race in Australia. He showed a great deal of improvement from his first up run at Flemington to his most recent run at Rosehill in the Group 1 Tancred Stakes over 2400 metres where he finished second behind Almandin at an extended trip. He now comes back in distance to a range where he has been most effective at in his career. He has drawn a slightly wide barrier and I will be interested to see how the track is racing throughout the day and what my instructions are from the draw. He is a high-class galloper who I expect to be one of the horses challenging Winx.

Race 8 is the Group 1 Sydney Cup over 3200 metres, my ride here is Lord Fandango who is trained by Archie Alexander. This German bred entire by Lord Of England is raced by OTI Racing. He finished fourth in the Caulfield Cup in the Spring where his effort to finish 1.85 lengths from the winner was very good. His recent effort in the Group 1 Australian Cup over 2000 metres to be beaten less than three lengths was also pleasing. He comes into this race with a light weight of 51.5 kilos as a fit horse who will appreciate the step up in distance and is one of the main chances.

Race 9 is the Group 1 Coolmore Legacy Stakes for three year old and upwards fillies and mares over 1600 metres, my ride here is Silent Sedition who is trained by Andrew Noblet. Since having the blinkers applied this preparation she has won a Group 3 race at Caulfield prior to her most recent run in Sydney where she finished 0.3 lengths from the winner in the Group 1 Coolmore Classic where she carried 3.5 kilos more than she did last year when she was narrowly defeated. She finished fourth in this race last year when she raced on a rain affected surface which she didn’t appreciate. The surface here today should suit her and from a wide draw, if she can get a nice run in transit I expect she can win this Group 1 contest.

Race 10 is a Group 2 race for three year old and upwards fillies and mares over 1200 metres, my ride here is Fragonard who is trained by James Cummings. This mare by New Approach is raced by Godolphin and with multiple runners in the race will wear a red cap. She is having her first run since returning to Sydney after two runs in Melbourne where she finished second recently at Flemington. She is a horse that would appreciate any rain affected track conditions however that looks unlikely. She has come up with an outside barrier draw and will need luck from the gate in this competitive race. I have had one ride on her for one win and would like to make it two from two. 

Sandown Preview

This afternoon I’m racing at Sandown on the Lakeside circuit.

Race 2 is a two year old handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is Green Ivy who is trained by Ken Keys. I rode this gelding by Fighting Sun at his first lifetime start at Moonee Valley where he finished fifth, he went to the line untested to be beaten less than two lengths in a Listed race. I expect he has taken a good amount of natural improvement from that experience and will also appreciate the step up in distance here. I am looking forward to seeing how he parades pre-race and what my instructions will be given he has drawn a wide barrier. He is a horse I have a good opinion of and provided he has taken natural improvement is the horse to beat.

Race 3 is a BM78 for fillies and mares over 2100 metres, my ride here is Rodin’s Doll who is trained by Henry Dwyer. This mare by So You Think is in great order having won her past two starts at Pakenham over 1600 and 2000. She displayed good determination in her most recent effort where she fought on strongly to win by a narrow margin. She steps up slightly in distance here and as she is going up in grade, drops two kilos from her last performance. I have had two rides on her for two wins as I was aboard her when she won her maiden here over 1800. I am hoping to keep this record intact and make it three from three on her.

Race 5 is a BM64 for three year old fillies over 1200 metres, my ride here is Diamond Bow who is trained by Wendy Kelly. This filly by Sebring races first up here this preparation and I was pleased with her recent official trial at Cranbourne. I have ridden her twice last preparation and noticed that she has matured and furnished into a filly that should progress well throughout this campaign as the distances increase. She has come up with an inside barrier draw and if she can get room in the straight will be closing the race off strongly as her racing pattern is to settle in the second half of the field.

Race 7 is a BM70 handicap for three year olds over 1600 metres, my ride here is Street Sheik who is trained by Patrick Payne. This gelding by Street Boss is lightly raced having had four starts for a win and three placings. He won his maiden at the end of January before having a freshen up. He then had two official trials before his next run that saw him finish second at Sandown on March 28^th to be beaten by an official margin of 0.3 length. From a more favourable barrier draw here and stepping up in distance to the mile for the first time he looks well placed and is the horse to beat.

Race 8 is a BM78 handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is Kazio who is trained by Colin Little. This gelding by Foreplay has been racing consistently this preparation and will be at peak fitness having had four runs this campaign. He is a horse that needs luck in running as he usually settles mid field or worse. There looks to be good pressure on paper here and by the end of the day we will have a good idea if there is any track bias. If the track is racing fairly and there is good speed throughout the early stages I expect him to be closing the race off strongly and can be winning chance. 

Randwick Preview

Today I’m racing at Randwick where it’s the first day of The Championships. The track is rated good and the rail is in the true position.

Race 3 is a Group 3 race for three year old fillies over 1200 metres, my ride here is Demerara who is trained by James Cummings. This filly by Commands is raced by Godolphin. She is undefeated this preparation where she has had two starts for two wins in Melbourne. I rode her in her first up run at Moonee Valley over 1000 metres where her effort was very good, she then ran at Flemington over 1100 in a set weights and penalties race and was dominant in winning there. She now finds herself up in grade and distance and her prior experience racing the Sydney way of going is also to her advantage. She looks well placed here where she has been allocated the minimum weight of 54 kilos and from a good barrier will be given every opportunity to maintain her unbeaten record this preparation.

Race 5 is the Chairman’s Quality, a Group 2 race over 2600 metres, my ride here is Ormito who is trained by Darren Weir. This race is traditionally a stepping stone towards next Saturday’s Sydney Cup. This five year old gelding by Mamool is race by Australian Bloodstock. I have ridden him at his past two starts, on March 18^th he ran at Flemington over 2600 metres, he then finished second in the Adelaide Cup over two miles. I was really impressed with the way he relaxed in Adelaide and the acceleration he displayed. Since then he has had a hurdle trial to keep his fitness up to the mark. Although he is coming back in distance from his last start, on his most recent form he is one of the main chances.

Race 7 is one of the feature races of the day, The Harrolds Australian Derby is a Group 1 race for three year olds over 2400 metres. My ride here is Mongolian Marshal who is trained by Murray Baker and Andrew Forsman. I rode this gelding last week in the Tulloch Stakes where he followed the speed and finished fourth. We felt he would take a great deal of fitness benefit from that run and it was always the plan to back him up in the Derby if he gained a start. He has drawn the outside barrier and from that gate I would assume my instructions will be to go back and allow him the chance to finish off strongly over the concluding stages. This is a highly competitive field this year and we will need some luck from the draw.

Race 8 is The Darley TJ Smith Stakes a Group 1 W.F.A race over 1200 metres, my ride here is Brave Smash who is trained by Darren Weir. This entire by Tosen Phantom is raced by Australian Bloodstock. I’ve ridden him at his past two starts where he was successful at Group 1 level in the Futurity Stakes over 1400 at Caulfield, he then ran second in the Newmarket Handicap over 1200 where he was narrowly beaten by Redkirk Warrior. The forms lines around him are very strong with Redkirk Warrior the only horse to have beaten Redzel recently. He has come up with a favourable barrier and has previously raced over the course and distance when he finished third in The Everest. This is a quality field of the best sprinters in Australia with the exception of Redkirk Warrior. My horse needs to be ridden in a certain way to produce his best, I feel this race should unfold well for him and I can see him winning.

Race 9 is The Doncaster Mile, a Group 1 handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is Tosen Stardom who is trained by Darren Weir. This entire by Deep Impact is also raced by Australian Bloodstock. He is a quality racehorse who came to Australia a Group winner in Japan and has further enhanced his value by winning dual Group 1 races since his arrival. He is a horse that can put in a below par performance for his standard every now and then and that is what happened last time at Flemington. I am expecting him to bounce back to his best form here and on his best form he is one of the main chances.

Sandown Preview

This afternoon I’m racing at Sandown on the Hillside circuit.

Race 1 is a maiden for four year olds and upwards over 1600 metres, my ride here is Silence The Stars who is trained by Deanne Taylor. This five year old gelding by Valixir is very lightly raced having had five starts where he has finished second twice. This is his first time stepping up to the mile but his racing pattern suggests he is a horse that will appreciate the extra distance. Although he has drawn an outside barrier I feel he will appreciate the galloping room. He has nice form lines for this race and is the horse to beat.

Race 3 is a BM64 for three year old fillies over 1400 metres, my ride here is Dental who is trained by Leon and Troy Corstens. This filly by Fastnet Rock is raced by Pinecliff Racing. She won two starts ago at Sale and then stepped up in distance to 1300 when I rode her at Sandown where she has a tongue tie added to her head gear for the first time. I was instructed to ride her conservatively from the wide draw on that occasion and thought she ran well to be beaten less than three lengths. While a few of her competitors come from that same form line, we have drawn a better barrier here today and I feel she can make her presence felt.

Race 4 is a BM70 handicap for fillies and mares over 1500 metres, my ride here is Isle Of Capri who is trained by Chris Waller. This mare by Street Cry has been racing in consistent form recently and put in a very good effort at Sandown where she was narrowly beaten and finished in second placing. Since then she has raced over 2000 metres twice and comes back in distance to 1500 here. She is a mare who is at peak fitness and from an inside draw will be given every opportunity in this small but competitive field of fillies and mares.

Race 5 is a BM70 over 1400 metres, my ride here is High Hopper who is trained by Ray Matthews. This seven year old gelding by Gonski has raced consistently throughout his whole career with his record showing that he has finished in the top three in more than half of his race starts. His most recent effort at Bendigo was very good where he finished second and the horse he beat on that occasion in Chequered Flag has gone on to win a Country Cup, franking the form. He meets a strong field here and from a middle barrier can make his own luck in running and looks to be one of the main chances.

Race 6 is BM70 over 1300 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is Coral Coast who is trained by Anthony Freedman. This three year old filly by So You Think races in Robert McClure’s colours and is having her first start for her new trainer. After winning her maiden she went to Sydney where she contested a Group 3 race and finished third behind eventual VRC Derby winner Ace High. She then raced again in Sydney, this time in Group 1 company over 2000 metres before returning to Victoria to run in the Group 3 Etheral Stakes before being spelled. She has winkers removed from her head gear and although this race will be well below her most effective distance I expect her to show her class and be finishing the race off strongly.

Race 7 is a BM70 over 1000 metres, my ride here is Mossman Gorge who is trained by Matthew Dale. This three year old gelding by Mossman is racing first up here and has an unbeaten first up record. He has had five runs over the distance for two wins and two placings. This is his first time racing the Melbourne way of going and if he brings his good first up form is one of the main chances. This is a quality field for a mid-week race and his main rivals look to be the other three year olds being Esperance and William Thomas.

Race 8 is a BM64 over 1300 metre, my ride here is Top Cookie who is trained by Jason Warren. This three year old gelding by Reward For Effort is having his second lifetime start here. He looked promising in his trial before being sent to the races where he was successful on debut at Colac. He is taking on older and more experienced horses here and from and inside draw will be given every chance to make it two from two as he looks a very professional type with good natural ability. 

Rosehill Preview

Today I’m racing at Rosehill Gardens where it’s the last day of their Autumn Carnival. The feature races on the card are the Group 1 Tancred Stakes and the Vinery Stud Stakes for three year old fillies.

Race 1 is a Group 3 race for two year olds over 1400 metres, my ride here is OSORNO who is trained by James Cummings. This colt by Exceed And Excel is raced by Godolphin. He is a maiden galloper who has had four stars and been competitive in his runs without winning. He had blinkers added to his head gear for his last run when stepping up to the 1400 for the first time and produced a good turn of foot after settling in the second half of the field. With a favourable barrier draw here and the race mapping like it will suit him he is the horse to beat.

Race 2 is a Group 3 set weights and penalties race for four year olds and upwards over 2000 metres, my ride here is MCCREERY who is trained by Chris Waller. This six year old gelding by Big Bad Bob is raced by Magic Bloodstock and partners. I rode him last start over 1500 metres and felt the track was too firm for him. Hopefully the track conditions are more favourable for him here today with more give in the surface. He steps up in trip here to a distance he has been effective over in the past and has previous winning form at the track and distance. He has drawn an outside barrier in a race where there looks to be a good amount of pressure so this should suit his racing style of settling mid-field or worse. He looks well placed under the set weigh and penalties conditions and I expect him to be very competitive.

Race 5 is the Group 2 Tulloch Stakes for three year olds over 2000 metres, my ride here is MONGOLIAN MARSHAL who is trained by Murray Baker & Andrew Forsman. This gelding by High Chaparral has had six starts for a record of two wins and two placings. He has done all of his racing in New Zealand and makes his Australian debut here. He is a versatile galloper who has performed well on all track conditions and has won his past two starts. He has drawn a low barrier and having watched his replays is a horse who can take advantage of the draw. He looks to be a very progressive type who, if successful in this, will no doubt line up in next Saturday’s AJC Derby. I am looking forward to riding him and hoping he takes the next step here with a view towards the Derby.

Race 6 is the Group 1 W.F.A Tancred Stakes over 2400 metres, my ride here is AMBITIOUS who is trained by Anthony Freedman. This Japanese entire is by Deep Impact and raced by Ozzie Kheir and partners. He has outstanding Japanese form having raced against the best stayers in the world. His first Australian start saw him put in a pleasing effort where he closed the race off nicely. He now steps up in distance and this will be a query for him as his previous winning form is over distances up to, and including 2000 metres. I feel whatever he does this preparation he will improve again on next time in, once he has the benefit of a preparation to acclimatise and will live up to his Japanese form in the Spring. He has drawn an inside barrier here and I am looking forward to seeing how he parades pre-race and expect he can make his presence felt against this competitive field.

Race 7 is the Group 1 Vinery Stud Stakes for three year old fillies over 2000 metres, my ride here is SEMARI who is trained by Trent Busuttin and Natalie Young. This filly by Sebring is having her first run the Sydney way of going. She is a lightly raced filly with a good record of four starts for two wins and a second placing. She comes into this full of confidence having won her past two runs impressively. She has been well placed by the team in her career to date and I expect her to handle the step up in class, in what will be her strongest test to date.

Race 8 is the Doncaster Prelude a Group 3 handicap over 1500 metres, my ride here is SPECTROSCOPE who is trained by James Cummings. This gelding by Medaglia d’Oro is raced by Godolphin and will wear a rep cap as they have multiple runners in the field. He won this race last year where he carried 53 and will carry 56 in today’s event. His first up effort was very good where he was beaten by less than two lengths to finish in fourth placing. I have ridden him previously when he came to Melbourne last preparation and feel, if he has trained on well can maintain his excellent second up record and make it back to back wins in this race.

Race 9 is a BM93 over 1400 metres, my ride here is INVINCIBLE KNIGHT who is trained by John Thompson. I rode this gelding first up where he was slow to being and after giving the leaders a big start managed to close the race off nicely. With the benefit of stepping up slightly in distance, an inside barrier, useful second up record and distance statistics, I expect he can run well in this competitive benchmark race. 

Pakenham Preview

Tonight I’m racing under lights at Racing.com park, Pakenham. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated good.

Race 2 is a fillies and mares BM70 over 2000 metres, my ride here is Rodin’s Doll who is trained by Henry Dwyer. I have ridden this mare previously when I was successful on her when winning her maiden at Sandown over 1800 metres. She then went to Tasmania and contested the Listed Strutt Stakes where she was beaten by less than three lengths. She has had two runs this preparation and following on from a solid first up effort at Ballarat, won her next start over 1600 at this track in dominant fashion. Although she has drawn an outside barrier draw the field has been depleted by scratchings and she is the horse to beat.

Race 5 is a three year old maiden over 1200 metres, my ride here is Mulligan Falls who is trained by my father Allan and brother Jason Williams. This Hinchinbrook gelding is owned by Price Bloodstock. He had two runs last preparation and was competitive on both occasions. His two recent official trials at Cranbourne have been pleasing and will have him forward enough to run well and I expect him to be one of the main chances.

Race 8 is a BM70 handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is Vainstream who is trained by John Pascoe. This colt by Bel Esprit is lightly raced with a good record of three starts for two wins at Moe and a third placing at Sandown where he took on the older horses. He takes on the older horses again here this evening and steps up in distance to the 1200 for the first time. Watching his replays, he seems to hang out when placed under pressure but looks to be a capable horse who can make his presence felt here. 

Sandown Preview

This afternoon I’m racing at Sandown on the Hillside circuit.

Race 2 is a two year old fillies race over 1100 metres, my ride here is Tatiara who is trained by Robbie Laing. This filly by Snitzel returns to racing here following on from a short freshen up. I rode her recently in an official trial at Cranbourne and was pleased with the feel she gave me. She has come up with a favourable barrier draw here and having had previous exposure to raceday pressure looks one of the main chances.

Race 4 is a BM64 handicap over 1500 metres, my ride here is Stornaway who is trained by Robbie Laing. This gelding by Denman has been racing in consistent form although he only has one win to his name from his 19 lifetime starts. His win came Bendigo over 1400 metres where he was able settle close to the speed. He has drawn an outside barrier here and there does look to be good pressure to his inside, dependant on the early speed the leaders may be vulnerable late. It will be interesting to see what my instructions are from the draw but it is likely he will be in the second half of the field and be closing off strongly over the concluding stages. His recent effort at Pakenham after a short freshen up was pleasing when he was ridden conservatively.

Race 5 BM64 for three year old fillies over 1000 metres, my ride here is Jungle Queen who is trained by Christopher Davies. This filly by Jungle Ruler won on debut over 1100 metres at Echuca and had two more runs before being spelled. She resumes first up here and her recent effort at Tatura was pleasing when winning her official trial. She looks to be a filly who is still learning her craft but has good stamina and a competitive nature.

Race 6 is a BM64 handicap for three year olds and upwards over 1300 metres, my ride here is The Consigliere who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This galloper is by I Am Invincible and the last time I rode him he was a colt. He has since been gelded and also has a gear change of pacifiers being added to his head gear recently. He looks to be a little bit aggressive in his racing style at times and the inside barrier here is to his advantage. He looks well placed here in his right grade to be able to add another win to his record.

Race 8 is a BM70 handicap over 1800 metres, my ride here is Balcazar who is trained by Lee and Shannon Hope. This gelding by Sebring has been racing in very good form this preparation. I have ridden him last year at Flemington when he finished third over 1600 metres and was beaten by one length. He is a horse who still can do things wrong and watching his recent replays has a tendency to hang in. it’s important that I am mindful of this and keep him straight and in a smooth rhythm. He looks very well placed here with strong recent form and coming back in grade in his favour, this looks a winnable race for him.

Rosehill Preview

Today it’s Golden Slipper Day and I’m racing at Rosehill Gardens. The track is rated heavy and the rail is out two metres on their feature day.

Race 1 is a three-year-old Listed race over 1200 metres, my ride here is Twilight Song who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes, Dabernig team. This filly by Fastnet Rock is raced by Gerry Harvey. She is a lightly raced filly who has had three career starts to date and has been racing in consistent fashion with a record of two wins and a third placing, including gaining black type when running third at Listed level last start at Flemington. She races for the first time the Sydney way of going here where she takes on the boys and will jump from an inside barrier draw. A one-eyed blinker has been added to her head gear for the first time. This is a highly competitive race and her performance will dictate the path she takes for the rest of the Autumn.

Race 2 is a Group 3 set weights and penalties race for three-year-old and upwards fillies and mares over 1900 metres, my ride here is Domed who is trained by John Thompson. This mare by Duke Of Marmalade is lightly raced and in her 9 career starts to date has only been out of the top three on one occasion. She is coming into this with the confidence of a last start win over 1900 at Canterbury. She has shown versatility in her racing style and having drawn a wide barrier here it will be interesting to see what my instructions are from John. With good soft track form in her favour as well as carrying only 54 kilos I feel she is the one the other will have to beat and looks well placed here.

Race 3 is a Group 3 Quality over 2400 metres, my ride here is Peribsen who is trained by John O’Shea. This entire by Lonhro is raced by Finemore Thoroughbreds and partners. Since arriving to Australia he has had four runs and has been successful on two occasions. He won his most recent outing at the same course and distance on February 28^th when having the blinkers applied for the first time. He has come up with a wide barrier draw, has a versatile racing pattern and the rain affected track conditions are also in his favour. Having taken confidence from his last start win and no weight on his back he looks to be one of the main chances.

Race 6 is the Group 1 Rosehill Guineas for three-year-olds over 2000 metres, my ride here is So You Win who is trained by Chris Waller. This gelding by So You Think races in the Magic Bloodstock colours made famous by Winx. This lightly raced galloper has had five career starts to date and has only been out of the top three on one occasion. He is a horse who races off speed and should appreciate the step up in distance. Although he is taking a big step up in class here his breeding suggests that he will relish the distance and the rain affect track conditions are also in his favour.

Race 7 is the main race of the day, the Group 1 Longines Golden Slipper for two year olds over 1200 metres, my ride here is Qafila who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes, Dabernig team. This filly by Not A Single Doubt is raced by Shadwell Stud. She has been exposed to soft ground previously when winning an official trial prior to her first life time start. Her last start effort at Canberra where she closed off nicely to finish in fourth placing was pleasing and I feel she will have taken natural benefit from having raced the Sydney way of going on that occasion. Two starts back she ran in the Group 1 Blue Diamond Stakes where she was finishing strongly over the concluding stages. Having been exposed to high pressure races previously I expect her to run a competitive race again. 

Moonee Valley Preview

Tonight I’m racing at Moonee Valley for the last time this racing season. The rail returns to the true position and I will be interested to walk the track and see how it will race for the evening.

Race 1 is a Listed two year old race over 1200 metres, my ride here is Green Ivy who is trained by Ken Keys. This gelding by Fighting Sun is having his first lifetime start. He had an official trial at Cranbourne on Monday where he wore blinkers to help him focus and trialled nicely. He comes here without the blinkers and with the benefit of an inside barrier, I feel if he can produce his trial form will be very competitive.

Race 2 is a BM70 race over 2040 metres, my ride here is Rock Away who is trained by Rachael Cunningham. This mare by Elvstroem has been racing in consistent form of late and has a good record at the track and distance. At her most recent run she came from last and finished off strongly over the concluding stages for third placing. Early in her career she was an on-speed runner and was dominant over staying distances, but recently she has been ridden conservatively and has been very effective. She races well here and on her best form is one of the main chances, however will need luck in running and the race run to suit her as she races off speed and this is a small but competitive field.

Race 4 is the 55 Second Challenge over 955 metres, my ride here is Thermal Current who is trained by Darren Weir. This gelding by Exceed And Excel races in the Contract Racing colours. He is an honest galloper who I have ridden on two occasions. My first ride on him was at Flemington where he was very unlucky and was beaten by less than a length when he didn’t get clear galloping room. His last start effort at Flemington was pleasing and he wasn’t beaten far behind Secret Agenda who will start as one of the main chances in tonight’s feature race. He has drawn an outside barrier draw and with Super Too a very fast horse there will be genuine speed on. I feel he looks well placed here and if he can regain his old form is a genuine chance.

Race 5 is a Group 3 set weights and penalties race for three year old fillies over 1600 metres, my ride here is Shokora who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes, Dabernig team. This filly by Nicconi is raced by Devitt and Gordon. She has been racing very consistently this preparation and has had five runs to date. Her most recent effort over 1400 at Flemington where she finished second behind Bella Martini in Group 2 company was very good, she wore blinkers and was able to position closer in the run. She has drawn a middle barrier here, is stepping up to the mile for the first time and based on her consistent racing manner I expect her to be one of the main chances.

Race 7 is the Group 1 W.F.A William Reid Stakes over 1200 metres, my ride here is Hellbent who is trained by Darren Weir. I’ve had one ride on him last year when I was successful on him at Caulfield. He finished second in this race last year when ridden by Damian Lane and has been racing in consistent form since then. He has had two runs this preparation, his most recent at Caulfield where he closed off very well in the Group 1 Oakleigh Plate. He has come up with an outside barrier draw and is a horse that settles generally in the second half of the field. I would like the track to be playing evenly and not leaders biased as that would be a disadvantage to my horses racing pattern. With luck from the draw I feel he can go one better than last year.

Race 8 is a set weights and penalties race for three year olds over 1200 metres, my ride here is Truly Discreet who is trained by Dan O’Sullivan. This filly by Teofilo races first up here and has won previously when racing fresh. I won on her at the end of her last preparation at the same track over 1500 metres when she controlled the race from barrier one. She has come up with an outside barrier draw here and I will be interested to see what my instructions are from the draw. She looks to be in good order leading into this with a recent jumpout at Ballarat to have her ready, however will need luck from the draw. 

Wednesday Preview

Today I’m racing at Kyneton at the day meeting and at Sandown on the hillside track for the twilight meeting.

Kyneton

Race 2 is a two year old fillies maiden over 1100 metres, my ride here is Havana Heat who is trained by Trent Busuttin and Natalie Young. This filly by Shamus Award is raced by Ultra Thoroughbreds. Her first lifetime start was at Flemington during the Spring where she ran in a Group 3 race over 1000 metres and finished sixth behind Setsuna. She was within a length of Qafila, who I am booked to ride on Saturday in the Golden Slipper should she gain a start. She resumes first up here after a spell, is in good order leading into this and I expect her to take a lot of beating.

Sandown

Race 2 is an open maiden over 1400 metres, my ride here is Cochada who is trained by Alex Rae. This gelding by Von Coasta De Hero is having his first lifetime start. I have ridden him in a jumpout at Cranbourne where he gave me a good feel. I am looking forward to seeing how he parades in the yard and how he performs under raceday conditions. Although this looks to be a very competitive field I feel he can measure up here and he looks one of the main chances.

Race 4 is a BM78 over 2400 metres, my ride here is Scraps who is trained by Heath Conners. He has been a very consistent horse although he does seem to have an awkward racing style after watching his replays. I will need to get him to relax throughout the early stages and conserve his energy in a race where there doesn’t look to be much pressure to the likely leader in Sherlock Holmes. Although my horse is on the minimum weight he will need to be at his peak to be beating these.

Race 8 is a BM64 over 1300 metres, my ride here is Toga Picta who is trained by James Cummings. This three year old gelding by Lonhro is raced by Godolphin. He has been racing at Black Type grade in Sydney and is stakes placed over 1600 metres. He resumed this preparation with a pleasing first up effort at Moonee Valley where he was narrowly beaten. From an inside draw and with a slight step up in distance he looks well placed here based on his best form.

Rosehill Preview

Today I commence my Sydney Autumn carnival weekend at Rosehill Gardens.

Race 1 is a BM82 handicap for three-year-old and upwards over 1900 metres, my ride here is Sizzling Bullet who is trained by Chris Waller. This gelding by Snitzel races in the Vinery Stud colours. I rode this horse as a three year old in the QLD Derby in a race that was won by Ruthven, who is favourite for Sunday’s Hong Kong Derby at Sha Tin. He has had three runs this preparation and finished fourth at his most recent start over 2000 metres. He is slightly back in trip here, has a favourable barrier draw and in this large field of competitive gallopers I expect him to be thereabouts.

Race 5 is a Group 3 race over 1100 metres for three-year-old and upwards, my ride here is Nieta who is trained by John Thompson. This mare by Nicconi has been very consistent throughout her career and races first up here. Her first up record consists of four starts for three wins and one placing, she has excellent statistics at the track and distance with two starts for a win and second. She is a short course specialist and most effective over this distance range. She has had two trials to have her ready for this assignment. She has come up with an outside barrier draw and it will be interesting to see how the track will play and what my instructions are from John Thompson. On her best form she is one of the main chances here. She looks well placed as she comes in one kilo above the minimum but will need luck from the draw.

Race 6 is the Group 2 Phar Lap Stakes over 1500 metres for three-year-old, my ride here is Calculated who is trained by Chris Waller. This colt by So You Think resumes after a short freshen up following on from his most recent effort at the Gold Coast on January 13^th where he finished third in the Magic Million Guineas over 1400. He is a lightly raced colt who has been a model of consistency throughout his career with his record reading 7-1:2:2. He is a horse that looks to race keenly throughout the early stages and if we get a smooth run in transit he will take a lot of beating in this competitive event.

Race 7 is the Group 1 Coolmore Classic for fillies and mares over 1500 metres, my ride here is Silent Sediton who is trained by Andrew Noblet. This mare by War Chant finished second in this race last year however carries an extra three kilos for her recent success in winning a Group 1 W.F.A race. I have ridden her in her two starts this preparation and with the addition of blinkers to her head gear last start she was dominant when winning the Mannerism Stakes over 1400 metres. She has followed the same race programme that saw her run third up in this race last year where she was narrowly beaten and is the horse they all have to beat.

Race 8 is the Group 2 Ajax Stakes over 1500 metres, my ride here is McCreery who is trained by Chris Waller. This gelding by Big Bad Bob is raced by Magic Bloodstock. He is a horse who gets back in his races and there doesn’t look to be a great deal of pressure here. From a wide draw it will be interesting to see what my instructions are and how the track is racing. If the track is playing evenly I expect him to be finishing off strongly over the concluding stages.

Race 9 a BM89 handicap over 1350 metres, my ride here is Invincible Knight who is trained by John Thompson. This gelding by I Am Invincible is owned and raced by Mr Chung. He is a versatile horse that started his career in Melbourne before being transferred to Sydney. He has a flexible racing pattern and has been successful both on and off speed. He has had two official trials to have him ready for this first up assignment where he has come up with a tricky barrier draw. It will be interesting to see if there is a track pattern by the end of the day and what my instructions will be. If he has luck from the draw and the track is racing evenly he is one of the main chances.

Moonee Valley Preview

Tonight I’m racing at Moonee Valley where the rail is out 4 metres.

Race 4 is a BM70 handicap for three-year-old and upwards fillies and mares over 1200 metres, my ride here is Ruchla who is trained by John Sadler. This filly by Dalakhani races in the colours of the late Phil Sly. She is a lightly raced filly who in her first lifetime start put in a pleasing effort to finish 2.4 lengths behind Aloisia at Flemington over 1400 metres. Since returning from a break from training she has two runs this preparation. Her first up effort when I rode her at Sandown over 1200 was a good return for her to finish in second, she then stepped up to 1400 at Pakenham and won her maiden. She has over-raced in her past two runs and as there looks to be a good deal of pressure in this race I am hopeful she can find her rhythm and settle for me. From an inside barrier draw I am looking forward to seeing how she measures up against the older horses as she is a filly I have a high opinion of and am interested to see if she can handle the tight turning Moonee Valley circuit.

Race 6 is the Listed Abell Stakes over 1200 metres, my ride here is Sword Of Light who is trained by Matthew Ellerton and Simon Zahra. This mare by New Approach is raced by Hesket Bloodstock in the Contract Racing colours. She is a Group 2 winner over 1400 metres at Flemington. She nearly fell when she blundered badly out of the gates in her first up effort at Caulfield in the Group 1 Oakleigh Plate, her effort to finish 3 lengths behind the winner on that occasion was full of merit. She is taking a step back in grade here and having drawn an outside barrier I will be interested to see how the track is racing throughout the evening and what my instructions will be. She can at times over-race, so bearing that in mind I hope she can relax for me and with luck from the draw she is one of the main chances.

Race 7 is the Group 2 Alister Clark Stakes over 2040 metre for three year olds, my ride here is Astoria who is trained by James Cummings. This colt by Medaglia D’Oro is raced by Godolphin. He is a classy galloper who finished third in the Group 1 Victoria Derby where he was 2.2 lengths from the winner. His two runs this preparation have been at Group 2 level over 1400 and 1800 metres at Caulfield where he finished third and second respectively, he will be at peak fitness third up here and will appreciate the step up in distance. The favourite in this race is Cliff’s Edge who is a very good galloper and I feel my horse will be able to challenge him if he can handle the circuit for the first time.

Race 8 is a BM64 handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is Along Came Jones who is trained by Symon Wilde. This gelding by Lago Delight has been very consistent this preparation and it was noted he pulled up with an excuse at his last run. If you can put a line through that effort he brings excellent form to this race and looks to be one of the main chances. He will need some luck from the draw but he looks to be a versatile galloper. 

Sandown Preview

Today I’m racing at Sandown on the hillside track for the twilight meeting.

Race 2 is a BM84 handicap over 3000 metres, my ride here is Benall who is trained by Geoff Cousins. This gelding by Blackfriars had his first run over the distance when I rode him at Moonee Valley on February 23^rd. I learnt a lot about him on that occasion and feel he is a galloper that appreciates room and will be riding him here today with that in mind. There doesn’t seem to be much genuine speed in this field and I know my horse can stay the trip. Our Yangtze beat him by 6.5 lengths last start however we have a 2 kilo weight swing on him. Having had the benefit of riding him previously I feel he is a horse that is a genuine stayer and will improve second time at the distance.

Race 4 is a BM64 for three year old fillies over 1300 metres, my ride here is Dental who is trained by Leon and Troy Corstens. This filly is by Fastnet Rock is raced by Jonathon Munz. It is fitting I ride her as I have had two Dental operations recently! She is coming off a solid last start maiden win at Sale and comes into this with a similar profile to the rest of the field in that several are last start winners. She has drawn the outside here and we will need luck in running from the draw.

Race 5 is a BM70 for three year olds over 1600 metres, my ride here is Barbeque who is trained by James Cummings. This gelding by Helmet races in the Godolphin blue colours. He started this preparation off in Sydney when he was successful at Wyong over 1300 metres where he came from last to win the race. He then ran at Randwick and put in a good effort to finish in third in a strong three year old race. His two runs since arriving in Melbourne have been very good with pleasing efforts at Caulfield and Flemington. He comes back to BM70 and steps up to the mile for the first time. He has drawn an ideal barrier in a race where the looks to be a lot of pressure, I expect him to be competitive against this strong field.

Race 7 is a BM70 fillies and mares race over 1000 metres, my ride here is Eat Dessert First who is trained by Aaron Purcell. This mare by Street Boss is well named being out of a mare called Apple Danish. She is a lightly raced mare who has only been out of the top three on one occasion when she finished fourth at this course and distance when running behind the unbeaten Eurack at the end of her last preparation. She has had an official trial at Cranbourne on March 5^th to have her ready for his and I expect she will be one of the main chances as she is promising mare with good form at the track and distance. 

Morphettville Preview

Today I’m racing at Morphettville where it’s Adelaide Cup Day. This feature raceday has been very well promoted by the club. With a public holiday and perfect weather, it’s expected there will be a great crowd in attendance.

Race 2 is a BM82 handicap over 2004 metres, my ride here is Column who is trained by Aaron Purcell. This gelding by Mount Nelson has won his past two runs at this same distance with his most recent win at the course. He comes into this race with good confidence and he looks well placed here as he will carry one kilo above the minimum weight. He is a horse that races on-speed and although there looks to be a bit of pressure in this race, if he can have an easy time in front he will take a lot of beating to make it three wins on end.

Race 4 is the Magic Millions Adelaide 2yo Classic over 1200 metres, my ride here is Dancer’s Kin who is trained by Philip Stokes. This gelding by Ocean Park has had two starts at the track for two seconds. He is steps up to the 1200 for the first time and his racing pattern suggests he will appreciate the extra distance. He has drawn a wide barrier in 10 and will need luck in running from the draw in this big field. If things can go his way it would be great to see him win his maiden for his Adelaide based trainer in a $200,000 race on their feature day.

Race 7 is the main race of the day, the Group 2 UBET Adelaide Cup over 3200 metres, my ride here is Ormito who is trained by Darren Weir. This gelding by Mamool is raced by Australian Bloodstock. I have ridden him on three occasions for three placings. I rode him in his most recent run at Flemington where I was pleased with the way he settled in what was a slowly run race. He will need to relax again here to help him run out the extended trip and after his Flemington effort I am confident he will. The favourite in this race is Fanatic who just beat him home last start and is a proven staying mare over two miles, I meet her 3.5 kilos better from our last outing. I am very confident going into this race if he can relax and conserve his energy he is the horse to beat.

Race 8 is a pick-up ride with Chris Symons not riding at the meeting. My ride in the Listed Matrice Stakes over 1200 metres is Riziz who is trained by Ken Sweeney. This 9 year old gelding has been a highly consistent performer throughout his career, he has had 66 starts for a record of 15:10:8 finishing in the top three in fifty percent of his starts. This will be my first ride on him and he meets a very competitive field here. Based on his previous form he is a consistent galloper who can run well again.

Flemington Preview

Today I’m racing at Flemington where it’s Super Saturday. The track is rated good and the rail is out 4 metres.

Race 1 is a BM90 handicap over 1000 metres, my ride here is Demonstrate who is trained by my father and brother, Alan and Jason Williams. This gelding by New Approach, who is owned and managed by my wife Larysa, gave me a huge thrill when winning at Moonee Valley last start and will have derived confidence from that effort. Two starts ago when racing at the same track he finished second behind Ken’s Dream who will run in the Newmarket Handicap later today. He has been well placed here as although he will carry 60kgs the spread relevant to him is only 4 kilos to 56. I would be delighted if he could put two wins together for my family.

Race 2 is a BM90 over 1800 metres, my ride here is Willi Willi who is trained by Craig Widdison. This gelding by Mint Lane is raced by Helen and John McPhee. I was successful on him two starts ago at the course and distance when he went forward and dominated the race. He then stepped up in distance at his next start and finished 4.8 lengths from the winner, he was very worked up pre-race on that day and ran accordingly. He has come up with an inside barrier draw here and is well weighted being 1 kilo above the minimum. If he can regain his form from two starts ago he looks to be a great chance.

Race 4 is the Group 2 Sire’s Produce Stakes for two year olds over 1400 metres, my ride here is Sanctimonious who is trained by Tony McEvoy. This colt by Foxwedge has been racing in consistent form having only been out of the top two in one of his starts. I won on him two starts ago at Moonee Valley over 1200 metres and was impressed with his acceleration and stamina over the concluding stages. The horse he beat on that occasion was Metronome who went on to win her next start. He then went to Warwick Farm and ran second in the Inglis Classic by a short margin. He, like the rest of the field are stepping up in distance to the 1400 for the first time here and he gives me the feel of a horse that will relish the extra journey. He has drawn a wide barrier which should be to his benefit as he is a horse that appreciates galloping room. With such good form lines around him he is the horse the others will have to beat.

Race 6 is the Group 1 Lexus Newmarket Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is Brave Smash who is trained by Darren Weir. This five year old entire by Tosen Phantom is raced by Australian Bloodstock. I was successful on him last start when he won the Group 1 WFA Futurity Stakes over 1400 metres at Caulfield. His best run over this distance was when he ran third in The Everest last year where he was beaten by an official margin of 1 length. Although he has never raced over the straight course before I feel the drop back in distance will be to his liking and if he handles the straight, I believe he can make is back to back Group 1 victories.

Race 7 is the Group 3 Schweppervescence Trophy over 1600 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is Spanish Reef who is trained by Ken Keys. This mare by Lope De Vega is a model of consistency and she started this preparation off in good fashion with a first up win over 1400 here three weeks ago. She now steps up in distance to the mile where she has had three starts for two wins and a second. She comes into this as one on the main chances with confidence from her last start win, a mid-field barrier draw and the minimum weight.

Race 8 is the WFA Group 1 TAB Australian Cup over 2000 metres, my ride here is Hartnell who is trained by James Cummings. This gelding by Authorized is raced by Godolphin. He was successful when I rode him first up in the Group 1 CF Orr Stakes over 1400 at Caulfield on February 18. He then ran third when stepping up in distance to 1800 last time out in preparation for this race. He will have to turn the tables on Gailo Chop who beat him on that occasion by 3.5 lengths as well as Single Gaze. I believe he will appreciate both the step up in distance and the flat, spacious Flemington track. He is very versatile in his racing pattern and from a middle gate I will have plenty of options on him. Being a multiple Group 1 winner and not only one of the highest rated horses we have in Australia, the second highest rated horses Godolphin owns globally, with luck in running he is one of the main players.

Race 9 is a Listed race for three year olds over 1100 metres, my ride here is Regimen who is trained by James Cummings. This filly by Sepoy is also raced by Godolphin. I rode her when she had her first start in Melbourne at Moonee Valley on February 23^rd where she drew the outside barrier. She put in a pleasing effort in the Group 3 contest having to go back from the draw, she finished off strongly over the concluding stages to finish 5^th. She comes up with an inside barrier draw here and by this race we will know how the track is playing. On her best form, she is the one to beat. 

Pakenham Preview

Tonight I’m racing under lights at Racing.com park, Pakenham.

Race 1 is a maiden plate over 1000 metres for three year old fillies, my ride here is Simply Dreaming who is trained by Nikki Burke. This filly by Denman is having her first lifetime start and has previously had an official trial at Cranbourne on October 9^th. I am looking forward to seeing her parade in the mounting yard and how she performs under raceday pressure.

Race 4 is a maiden over 1200 metres for three year old and upwards, my ride here is Vitani who is trained by Wendy Kelly. This filly by Animal Kingdom is having her second start here. I’ve ridden her previously in trials and she has given me the feel that she has good natural ability. She has winkers added to her head gear for the first time to help her focus. This is a highly competitive maiden race however I think she will perform very well and progress towards black type races after this.

Race 5 is a maiden over 1600 metres for three year old and upwards, my ride here is Esplanade who is trained by James Cummings. This gelding by Bernardini races in the Godolphin blue colours. He comes into this having reached peak fitness following on from his four previous runs where he progressively stepped up in distance. His last start was at Benalla over the mile where he finished 5^th. This is a strong field and he will need to be at his best if he is to win his maiden here.

Race 7 is a BM70 over 1200 metres, my ride here is Brahmos who is trained by John Sadler. This gelding by Smart Missile races in the black and grey diamond colours of Owen Egan. I know this horse well and was successful on him when he had his first start in BM64 grade at Sandown last year. His first up run this preparation was pleasing and he made good ground over the concluding stages of the 1000 metres at Ballarat. He will appreciate the step up in distance here and from an inside draw in this large field looks to be one of the main chances.