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. 

Flemington Preview

Today I’m racing at Flemington where it’s Australian Guineas Day.

Race 1 is a Listed set weights and penalties race for the two year olds over 1000 metres, my ride here is Barack O’Banner who is trained by Leon and Troy Corstens. This colt by Starspangledbanner is having his debut run. Although he hasn’t had an official trial I have seen him jumpout and he seemed to show good natural speed. A number of horses are having their first lifetime starts and I will be interested to see how this colt handles the occasion.

Race 2 is the Listed Roy Higgins Quality over 2600 metres, my ride here is Ormito who is trained by Darren Weir. This imported gelding by Mamool is raced by Australian Bloodstock. I have ridden him on two occasions where I finished second and third at Moonee Valley and Flemington. He went into his most recent run at Moonee Valley on February 16^th following on from a freshen up where he ran third and was beaten by less than half a length. He meets the winner again here as well as Fanatic who contested the same race and is worse off at the weighs against those runners. He has drawn an outside barrier here so it will be interesting to see what my instructions are from the draw. He is racing in consistent form without winning however I expect he will run a very competitive race here.

Race 3 is a BM84 handicap for fillies and mares over 1100 metres, my ride here is Essence Of Terror who is trained by Matthew Ellerton and Simon Zahra. This mare by Reward For Effort has been racing in consistent form throughout her career where she has won or placed in half of her starts to date. Although she hasn’t raced up the straight previously she has raced around the circle at Flemington over 1400 in a previous preparation and is trained on course. Her racing pattern has been versatile and has seen her run well when ridden off speed and when going forward. She has come up with a low barrier draw so I will be interested to walk the track and see which way the field might be likely to go. This is a small but competitive field and on her best form she is one of the main chances.

Race 5 is a BM70 handicap over 2000 metres, my ride here is City Of Kirkwall who is trained by Matthew Dale. This seven year old gelding by Pentire has been racing in great form and has been well placed by his trained to have won three constitutive races. He won a BM57 over 2000 at Canberra before going on to win a BM60 and then took another step up in class to win a BM70 over 2200 metres at the Sapphire Coast. He is a versatile horse that has been ridden on speed or back in the field with success, he can also over-race at times so this is something I will have to be mindful of. He has drawn a wide barrier here so we will need luck in running. This is a strong BM70 race however I feel having taken confidence from his past three wins he can run well again.

Race 7 is the Group 1 Australian Guineas for three year olds over 1600 metres, my ride here is Addictive Nature who is trained by Bjorn Baker. This colt by Savabeel is raced by Sean Buckley in the Ultra Thoroughbred colours. I have been very impressed watching the replays from his past two starts, in particular where he has taken on the older horses under WFA conditions. He is having his first run the Melbourne way of going and is a horse that likes to settle close to the speed. This is a very competitive field of gallopers however I feel he has the class to win and he will take a lot of beating. It would be fitting if this colt could replicate the previous success I had when winning this race on Shamus Award in the same colours.

Race 8 is the Listed ATA/ Bob Hoysted Handicap over 1000 metres, my ride here is Thermal Current who is trained by Darren Weir. This seven year old gelding is by Exceed And Excel and races in the Contract Racing colours. I rode this galloper two starts ago at the same track and distance where he went to the line untested with no clear galloping room over the concluding stages. He had the blinkers applied on that occasion and I was instructed to save him for a short, sharp burst, which would have worked had I gained galloping room. This is a very strong field with three horses rated over 100. On his day, this galloper would be one of the main chances in this competitive field.

Ballarat Preview

After having a great day at Caulfield yesterday where I won the Futurity Stakes, bringing up my 50^th Group 1 win, today I head to Ballarat.

Race 1 is a 2 year old maiden over 1200 metres, my ride here is Tin Hat who is trained by James Cummings and races in the Godolphin blue colours. This colt by Helmet has had one lifetime start where he ran in NSW on February 11^th where he was beaten by a small margin by a short-priced favourite in Outrageous. He will be racing left handed for the first time here today however Ballarat is a suitable, spacious, track that will make my job easier putting him under race pressure going this way for the first time. Most of his rivals are having their debut runs so it will be interesting to see how they present in the yard. Provided my horse has taken natural improvement from his first up run I feel he is the one to beat.

Race 6 is a class 1 handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is Maxey Campo who is trained by Symon Wilde. This gelding by Star Witness has been a model of consistency throughout his eight career starts to date having only missed the top three on three occasions. His two runs this preparation have been pleasing and at his most recent run he was narrowly beaten over 1400 at the same track. The step up in distance should suit him here, although, he is a horse that settles in the second half of the field and there doesn’t look to be too much pressure on paper. This is something I will have to be mindful of dependant on how the track is racing.

Race 7 is a BM70 handicap over 1200 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is Langoustine who is trained by James Cummings. This filly by Exceed And Excel races in the Godolphin blue colours. I rode her to win her maiden at Bendigo on February 9^th where she put in an impressive performance over 1100 metres. This race looks to be a nice stepping stone for her and although she is taking on the older mares I believe she is city class and has the quality to win this as she progresses through her grades.

Race 8 is a BM78 handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is Veranillo who is also trained by James Cummings and races in the Godolphin blue. This gelding by Medaglia D’Oro goes up in distance here, comes down in grade and is taking on the older horses. The form around his last start effort in the Group 3 Manfred Stakes at Caulfield is very good with Cliff’s Edge subsequently running well again and Overshare winning the Zeditave Stakes at Caulfield yesterday. He is a horse that gets very worked up pre-race and will have ear muffs on for the first-time pre-race in a hope to help him relax and conserve some energy. If he can regain his good two year old form I feel he is one of the main chances in this big field.

Blue Diamond Day Preview

Today I’m racing at Caulfield where it’s Ladbrokes Blue Diamond Day.

Race 1 is the Listed Ladbrokes Mornington Cup Preview over 2000 metres, my ride here is Goldstream who is trained by Darren Weir. This gelding Martino Alonso races in the colours of Australian Bloodstock. He races here fourth up which saw him successful last preparation and he looks like he is returning to his good form following on from his last start effort which was pleasing when racing over 1800. I have ridden him previously and found he can be an awkward horse to ride so it will be interesting to see what my instructions are here today from a wide draw. The last time I rode him was at the same track and distance where he ran second to the subsequent Caulfield Cup winner in Boom Time.

He looks well placed as he will carry the minimum of 54 kilos, if he has taken further natural improvement from his last start I feel he is one of the main chances.

Race 3 is the Group 3 Zeditave Stakes for three year old colts and geldings over 1200 metres, my ride here is Plutocracy who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This gelding has strong form lines around Jukebox having run second to him in the Vain Stakes last year. Although this will be my first race ride on him I have ridden him in two jumpouts prior to his first up run. Although this is a very competitive race he has drawn a favourable draw and on his best form I expect he will run well again.

Race 5 is the Group 3 Mannerism Stakes for mares over 1400 metres, my ride here is Silent Sedition who is trained by Andrew Noblet. I won this race on her second up last year and she comes into this race again second up. Her first up run at Caulfield on February 10th was pleasing but I felt she still had more to give. Since then she has worked in blinkers and she will wear them for the first time under race conditions today. With the addition of the blinkers and stepping up to her most effective distance range I feel she will be very hard to beat on her home track.

Race 6 is the Group 1 W.F.A Futurity Stakes over 1400 metres, my ride here is Brave Smash who is trained by Darren Weir. This imported entire by Tosen Phantom is raced by Australian Bloodstock. He has shown excellent form since arriving in Australia. I had my first ride on him two starts ago at Moonee Valley where he had the blinkers on for the first time and he over raced before peaking on his run. Since then he was beaten by 0.2 length in the Group 1 CF Orr Stakes and he closed off the race really well. He has come up with a wide barrier draw and away from Lord Of The Sky and Showtime there doesn’t look to be too much pressure, so I will be very interested to see what my instructions are from the draw with the way the race maps on paper. If he is not giving the leaders too much of a head start he looks to be a terrific chance.

Race 7 is the Group 1 Ladbrokes Blue Diamond Stakes for two year olds over 1200 metres, my ride here is Kinky Boom who is trained by Tony McEvoy. This is the richest two year old race we have in Victoria being valued at $1,500,000. We have a capacity field here today and this looks to be a very open year with evenly matched runners. This filly by Spirit Of Boom races in the McAlpine Family colours. She has only had one start and I was successful on her at the course and distance when she beat a field restricted to Inglis sales horses in good style. I was very impressed with how she handled the day and her performance under race pressure. Since then she has had a jumpout to help ensure she jumps cleanly as she was slow out on debut. She is a filly that has the X Factor about her and if she can win here at only her second start would become the first horse since Redoute’s Choice to do so. I believe she has the ability and provided she has come on from her first up effort I feel she is a great chance to win me back to back Blue Diamonds but we will need luck in running.

Race 8 is the Group 1 Ladbrokes Oakleigh Plate over 1100 metres, my ride here is Catchy who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This filly by Fastnet Rock is races the colours of Robert Crabtree’s Dorrington Farm. I won the Blue Diamond twelve months ago on this filly and she returns as a three year old here taking on the older horses. She has had two jumpout leading into this assignment and showed improvement when she had blinkers applied in the most recent. This is an extremely competitive field with a good deal of speed, I feel if she returns to her good form she is one of the main contenders.

Race 9 is the Group 2 W.F.A Peter Young Stakes over 1800 metres, my ride here is Hartnell who is trained by James Cummings. This gelding by Authorized is raced by Godolphin. He is second highest rated horse that Godolphin have on their global roster and he is one of the highest rated horses we have in Australia. We saw his terrific first up effort when he was successful in the CF Orr Stakes two weeks ago. The stable has been happy with the way he has come through that run and I am looking forward to seeing how he presents in the yard. He is a dual Group 1 winner and having taken confidence from his first up win he is the horse the others will have to beat.

Moonee Valley Preview

Tonight I’m racing at the night meeting at Moonee Valley. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated good.

Race 1 is a BM64 for three year olds 1500m metres, my ride here is Ice Hunt who is trained by James Cummings. This gelding by Commands is raced by Godolphin. I’ve ridden him at his two runs this preparation for a first up second followed on by a last start win at Sandown where he stepped in distance to 1400. He is having his first start at Moonee Valley here and he will appreciate the slight step up in distance again. He has drawn an outside barrier draw so it will be interesting to see where he ends up in running. Having taken confidence from his last start win and with luck in running he should be able to run well again in this small but select field.

Race 2 BM78 for three year olds over 1000 metres, my ride here is Demerara who is trained by James Cummings. This filly by Commands is raced by Godolphin. She races first up here and has an unbeaten record when racing first up. She has won over the distance and has previous experience racing around the Moonee Valley circuit when she raced here through the Spring in Listed company. Her effort when winning a recent official barrier trial at Randwick was impressive and from an inside draw here she will gain an economical run in transit and give herself every chance to maintain her excellent record when racing fresh.

Race 3 is a BM90 handicap over 955 metres, my ride here is Demonstrate who is trained by my father Allan and brother Jason Williams. This gelding by New Approach races in the colours of my wife, so there is a great deal of pressure on me to get it right. His two runs since changing stables have been very good and he closed off well behind Ken’s Dream last start at Flemington which is proving to be a good form race. He has had a freshen up following on from that run and comes into this race in good order. He is a horse that races well around Moonee Valley and although he has drawn a wide barrier drawn the field size has been reduced after scratching time.

Race 4 is a BM84 handicap over 3000 metres, my ride here is Benall who is trained by Geoff Cousins. He has been a very consistent horse and really comes into his own when racing over staying trips however this is the first time he has run over 3000 metres. His last start effort at Moonee Valley gives me confidence he will run well around the track and over the distance. Carrying the minimum weight here I expect him to be one of the main chances.

Race 6 is a BM64 over 2040 metres, my ride here is Marching On who is trained by Mick Kent. I’ve ridden this gelding on four occasions for two wins, a second and a fourth placing. He ran poorly last time out at Moonee Valley however it was noted that he pulled up with a soundness issue. He is a horse that races on speed and from a favourable barrier draw I expect we can forgive his last start failure and see him return to his previous good form here.

Race 7 is the Group 3 Typhoon Tracy Stakes for fillies and mares over 1200 metres, my ride here is Regimen who is trained by James Cummings. This filly by Sepoy is raced by Godolphin. She resumes here following on from a successful first preparation that saw her have 5 runs for three wins, a second and a fourth placing. Although she is having her first run the Melbourne way of going she has a very good record over the distance. Although she has drawn an outside barrier I feel with luck in running she is one of the main chances.

Race 8 is a BM70 handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is Booradley who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This gelding by Nicconi races in the colours of Devitt and Gordon. I had my first ride on him last start at Sandown on February 7^th where he was stepping up in distance to the 1300 and it took some time for him to relax in the early stages. He will have the tongue tie taken off here as he didn’t appreciate racing in it last start. He is coming back to the 1200 which is a distance he is most effective at I feel if he can handle the Moonee Valley circuit he will be very competitive. 

Wednesday Preview

Today I’m racing at Kyneton for the day meeting and at Caulfield for the twilight meeting.

Kyneton

Race 2 is a three year old fillies maiden over 1100 metres, my ride here is Sly Song who is trained by Wendy Kelly. This filly by Your Song races in the colours of the late Phil Sly. She has had two official trials leading into this assignment and I have ridden her in her most recent trial at Cranbourne on February 5^th. I was impressed with the feeling she gave me on that occasion and I expect if she brings her trial form to the races this looks a suitable race for her to win her maiden on debut.

Caulfield

Race 1 is a two year old handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is Syd’s Coin who is trained by Ken Keys. This colt by Denman produced a good first up effort when winning on debut at Bendigo on February 9^th. He impressed me on that day with his professional attitude and will have taken good natural improvement in both fitness and attitude from that experience. He takes a step up in grade here and this will provide a guide on where he sits the stable feels he is a possible Sires Produce horse. He is a horse I have a lot of time for and I expect him to be one of the main chances.

Race 2 is a maiden race for three year old’s and up over 1600 metres, my ride here is Superior Rose who is trained by Robbie Lang. This mare by is coming off a short back up that saw her race at Ballarat on February 18^th. She has an important gear change in that she has the blinkers removed here in an effort to get her to jump in a more effective manner. Although this is a competitive maiden on her best form she would be considered one of the main chances.

Race 4 is a fillies and mares BM78 over 1600 metres, my ride here is Florida Pearl who is trained by Symon Wilde. I ride her two starts ago at Caulfield over 1400 metres where she put in a good effort in a higher grade. Since that start she has run well again at Warrnambool when finishing second on February 7^th. She is a mare who races on-speed and looks well placed here being only 1 kilo above the minimum. Based on her best form and racing style I expect her to be the horse they have to run down.

Race 5 is a BM64 handicap for three year old fillies over 1600 metres, my ride here is Shootoutatdawn who is trained by Wendy Kelly. This filly by Bushranger is coming off a last start win at Pakenham over the same distance I have ridden her previously and she has given me a nice feel. Although she has drawn a wide barrier draw I feel with luck in running and confidence from her last start victory that she can run well again.

Race 6 is a BM70 over 2040 metres, my ride here is Great Lane who is trained by Symon Wilde. This gelding by Good Journey put in a solid effort last start where he finished second over 2100 metres. He is a horse that will appreciate the step up in distance here. Although it will be my first ride on him I understand he can be very strong in running. If I can get him to settle throughout the early stages of the race it will be advantageous. There looks to be good speed on paper and they should set a good tempo which will also favour my horse, I am looking forward to riding him and I feel if I can get him to settle he will run very well. 

Flemington Preview

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

Race 1 is a Listed set weights and penalties race two year olds over 1100 metres, my ride here is Sanglier who is trained by James Cummings. This colt by Albrecht is raced by Godolphin. He races first up here having had two runs in Melbourne last preparation. His first lifetime start saw him debut in the Maribyrnong Trial before putting an improved performance in the Merson Cooper where he was beaten by less than two lengths by Long Leaf, who is one of the favourites for the upcoming Blue Diamond Stakes. Although this will be my first ride on him I feel having had the benefit of racing previously up the straight and with a recent jumpout under his belt he will be the horse they have to run down in this very competitive race.

Race 2 is a BM84 handicap over 2000, my ride here is Stormy Shore who is trained who is trained by Ken Fythe. This mare by Bramshaw has been racing very consistently this preparation and the last time she raced at the track and distance she put in a terrific effort when she finished second. Although up in grade she drops in weight as she is taking on the boys, from a favourable barrier draw I expect she will run a competitive race again.

Race 4 is a BM84 handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is So Poysed who is trained by Richard Laming. This gelding by Sepoy has won his last two starts at Sandown and Moonee Valley in good style. I was impressed with his last start performance and he now goes up in grade and drops slightly in weight. He will jump from a wide barrier draw and with luck in running based on his past two runs he looks to be one of the main chances.

Race 5 is BM90 handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is Handsome Thief who is trained by Darren Weir. This entire by Shamardal is raced by Waratah Thoroughbreds. I rode him last start where he finished off strongly to finish in second placing behind the promising Eurack. He will appreciate the slight step up in distance and although up in grade he drops drastically in weight and will carry the minimum here. If he handles the straight and if the inside barrier draw is no disadvantage then he is a major player here. He is a horse that I believe is stakes class and looks well placed.

Race 6 is The Vanity for three year old fillies over 1400 metres at Group 3 level, my ride here is Banish who is trained by James Cummings. This filly by Lonhro races in the Godolphin blue colours. I won on her three times last preparation and her most recent run saw her win at Group 2 level over 1600 at Moonee Valley on October 28^th. She races first up here and has had the benefit of a barrier trial at Rosehill to have her ready for this assignment. I am looking forward to seeing how she performs here as this will give me an indication of where she may progress further into this preparation.

Race 7 is the CS Hayes Stakes for colts and geldings over 1400 metres at Group 3 level, my ride here is Éclair Sunshine who is trained by Philip Stokes. This gelding by All Too Hard races in the colours of Thomas Li. He is a horse who raced very well throughout the Spring in group company and ran second to Royal Symphony over the same course and distance. His first up effort in Adelaide saw him get a long way back before closing off strongly over the concluding stages. With the benefit of that run under his belt and from a mid-field draw I expect him to show his class in this high-quality field of promising gallopers.

Race 8 is the Black Caviar Lighting Stakes over 1000 metres at Group 1 level, my ride here is Ball Of Muscle who is trained by Joe Pride. This gelding by Dubawi is a specialist at this distance and has an impressive first up record. He has had two starts at the track and distance for a win and a second. He will take on the best sprinter in Australia from last season here in Redzel and this will give us a good guide on how he measures up against him.

Race 9 is a handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is Tally who is trained by James Cummings. This gelding by Street Cry races in the Godolphin blue colours. He resumes here and with a good first up record (5:1-1-1) and with strong form over the distance I am looking forward to seeing him return. Although he has a big weight to carry he is a highly rated galloper who can run well here and should not be under estimated with his good first up record. 

Caulfield Preview

Today I’m racing at Caulfield where it’s the first Group 1 meeting in Victoria for 2018, C.F Orr Stakes Day. The rail is true and the track is rated good.

Race 2 is the Group 2 Ladbrokes Blue Diamond Prelude for two year old fillies over 1100 metres, my ride here is Al Naifa who is trained by Tony McEvoy. This filly by Redoute’s Choice races in the colours of Sheik Mohammed Bin Khalifa Al Maktoum. She started favourite in her first lifetime start at Moonee Valley on December 8^th where she was narrowly beaten. The horse that beat her on that day has since gone on to win the Group 3 Preview at Caulfield with the race proving to be a strong form reference. She had blinkers added to her head gear for her next start at Sale and she put in a dominant performance when winning by 1.75 lengths over the 1100. She has come up with the outside barrier here and we will need luck from the draw. This will be one of the last races to frame the market for the Blue Diamond Stakes.

Race 3 is the Group 3 Ladbrokes Blue Diamond Prelude for two year old colts and geldings over 1100 metres, my ride here is Ben Hercules who is trained by the Hayes and Dabernig team. This colt by I Am Invincible is having his second start here after a pleasing effort in his debut at Ballarat on January 24^th where he made all the running and I felt he came under pressure at the top of the straight and fought hard to be beaten by a narrow margin. Having taken natural improvement from his first up run I am looking forward to seeing where he fits into the Blue Diamond picture. He would need to win or place to earn enough prize money for him to gain a start.

Race 4 is the Group 3 Carlyon Cup over 1600 metres, my ride here is Wyndspelle who is trained by Mick Kent. I have ridden this entire at his past two runs and at the end of his last preparation finished third on him in the Group 1 Cantala Stakes at Flemington. His first up run at Caulfield on January 27^th saw him finish in third placing and beaten by 1.5 lengths over 1400 metres behind two horses that will contest the Group 1 Orr Stakes later on this afternoon. He faces a small but competitive field of quality horses here including the Group 1 winner in Gailo Chop who looks well placed under the set weights and penalties conditions of this race. Having had the benefit of a run I feel my horse will have a good base level of fitness compared to some of the others who are first up and I feel he will be one of the main chances.

Race 5 is the Kevin Hayes Stakes for three year old fillies over 1200 metres at Group 3 level, my ride here is Smart Coupe who is trained by Matthew Ellerton and Simon Zahra. This filly by Smart Missile races in the First Light Racing colours. She is racing is consistent form having had five career starts for two wins and three placings. She resumed this preparation with a pleasing first up effort at Caulfield on January 27^th over 1100 metres and is a filly who should appreciate the step up in distance here. She has shown good tactical speed and from a favourable barrier drawn should find a nice position in the early stages. This is a field of very good fillies and I feel she can measure up with them.

Race 6 is the Schweppes Rubiton Stakes over 1100 metres at Group 2 level, my ride here is Super Cash who is trained by Andrew Noblet. This mare by Written Tycoon won this race last year and since then has maintained her good form having gone on to win another Group 2 race at the same track and distance. She has terrific first up form having raced five times for four wins and a placing. Her statics first up and at the track and distance have her as the horse to beat.

Race 7 is the Hyland Race Colours Autumn Stakes for three year olds over 1400 metres at Group 2 level, my ride here is Mr So And So who is trained by Anthony Freedman. This gelding by So You Think races in the colours of Dream Thoroughbreds. He is a light race horse who has competed well at Listed grade over the same distance. His first up run at Moonee Valley on January 26^th over 1200 saw him close the race off nicely and he now steps up in distance. He will need luck in running from an outside drawn and should the track be racing evenly I expect he will be running on strongly.

Race 8 is the Group 1 Ladbrokes C.F Orr Stakes over 1400 metres run under WFA conditions, my ride here is Hartnell who is trained by James Cummings. This gelding by Authorized races in the Godolphin blue colours. His first up run last preparation saw him put in an effortless performance when winning at the same track and distance. He is a highly rated horse within the global Godolphin operation who has a first up record for eight starts for one win and three placings. At this distance he has only been out of the top three on one occasion and although he has come up with a wide barrier draw he is a proven WFA horse. If he doesn’t have to do too much work from the draw and with luck in running he will be the horse the others will have to run down in the straight.

Race 9 is the mypunter.com.au Bellmaine Stakes for mares over 1200 metres at Group 3 level, my ride here is Silent Sedition who is trained by Andrew Noblet. She is a Group 1 winning mare by War Chant who is very well treated under the set weights and penalties conditions where she carries 59kgs with only a 4 kilo spread across the field. With her rating of 110 if this race were to be run as a handicap it would be much greater. Her first up record is excellent and she has only been out of the top three on one occasion. She races well at the track and distance and from the inside barrier drawn should gain an economical run. She has had a recent official at Geelong in preparation for this and it looks like a winnable race for her.

Bendigo and Moonee Valley Preview

Today I’m racing at the day meeting at Bendigo and at the night meeting at Moonee Valley.

Bendigo, rail out 6 metres, track good.

Race 1 is a two year old maiden over 1100 metres, my ride here is Syd’s Coin who is trained by Ken Keys. This colt by Denman is having his first lifetime start here as are the majority of the field. I have ridden him previously in an unofficial jumpout at Cranbourne and he is a well grown horse that has given me a good feel. I also feel he is a horse who will benefit when racing over a longer trip later in his career. He has a very professional attitude and from a favourable barrier draw I expect him to be one of the main chances.

Race 2 is a three year old fillies maiden over 1100 metres, my ride here is Langoustine who is trained by James Cummings. This filly by Exceed And Excel races in the Godolphin blue colours. She races first up here after a progressive first preparation where she finished third on two occasions from three starts. She is a very competitive horse and the form around her from last preparation is very good. Although she has come up with a wide barrier draw with luck in running she is the horse they all have to beat.

Moonee Valley, rail out 5 metres, track good.

Race 4 is a BM70 handicap over 1523 metres, my ride here is Coram who is trained by Robert Hickmott. I’ve ridden this gelding at his past two starts this preparation at 1400 metres and at his last run at Caulfield was able to ride him closer to the speed where his effort was pleasing and he was beaten by less than 3 lengths. He meets a similar field of horses again here and I hope he can turn the tables on them and put in another good effort. He is a horse that races well around the Moonee Valley circuit and has good form over the distance.

Race 6 is a BM70 handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is Sabotage who is trained by Symon Wilde. This gelding by Savabeel is having his second run in Australia after being imported from New Zealand. His first up run was at Flemington on January 20^th where he finished in fourth placing and was beaten by an official margin of 2.1 lengths. He drops in grade to BM70 here and from a favourable draw he looks a strong chance in this competitive field.

Race 7 is a BM78 handicap over 2500 metres, my ride here is Dreaded who is trained by Danny O’Brien. This gelding by Shocking runs in the colours of Eales Racing. He won three starts ago over 2400 metres at Geelong and at his most recent start he put in a very good effort to finish in second placing at Sandown by a nose. He is racing in very good form and is a horse that appreciates this distance range. There looks to be a good amount of pressure in this race and that will also suit his racing pattern. 

Pakenham Preview

Tonight I’m racing under lights at Racing.com park, Pakenham where the rail is out 9 metres.

Race 2 is a maiden plate over 1000 metres, my ride here is Behave who is trained by Mick Kent. This filly by Sebring is first up here and resumes with good form around her following on from her two year old year where she debuted in the Group 3 Chairman Stakes. Her second lifetime start was in a handicap race at Moonee Valley where she was beaten by a narrow margin when ridden by Luke Nolen. Provided she has matured and developed as a three year old, given her strong form references she is the horse they have to beat.

Race 4 is a maiden plate over 1400 metres, my ride here is Esplanade who is trained by James Cummings. This gelding by Bernardini races in the Godolphin blue colours. His two runs this preparation have seen him finish third on both occasions with most recent start at this track over 1200 metres on January 25^th. Stepping up in distance and with a favourable barrier draw he will be given every chance to break his maiden status.

Race 6 is a BM64 over 1400 metres, my ride here is No Commitment who is trained by Colin Little. This gelding has been very well placed throughout his racing career having had seven starts for two wins and two placings. He has good second up form and seems to produce his best around this distance range. His first up run at Sandown on January 3^rd saw him close off well over the concluding stages after going back from a wide draw. Although he has drawn a wide barrier again here in this small but select field I feel on his best form he can make his presence felt. 

Sandown Preview

Today I’m racing at Sandown on the Lakeside circuit at the twilight meeting where the rail is out 3 metres.

Race 1 is the Clanbrooke Racing Plate 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 has had one lifetime start last preparation running well on debut at Flemington where she was beaten by 2.4 lengths by a subsequent Group 1 winner in Aloisia. She resumes first up here over the 1200 in what is a small but competitive field. I have had the benefit of riding her in a recent jumpout and she gives me the feel of a lovely filly that will come into her own when she is stepped up in distance.

Race 2 is a 3 year old maiden over 1400 metres, my ride here is Ice Hunt who is trained by James Cummings. This gelding by Commands races in the Godolphin blue colours. He is a lightly raced horse who has had four starts and has finished second on three occasions. I rode him first up last start where he had the blinkers removed and he finished off strongly over the concluding stages. He steps up in distance and although he has drawn an outside barrier, with luck in running this is a race he can break his maiden in.

Race 3 is a BM64 for three year old fillies over 1200 metres, my ride here is Shagra who is trained by David Brideoake. This filly by Artie Schiller races in the colours of Emirates Park. She made good progression last preparation where she was tested at Listed level. The stable is confident that she has matured further and taken another step forward leading into her first up run here. She gave me a nice feel recently when I rode her in a jumpout at Mornington and based on her recent trackwork I expect her to be finishing the race off strongly. This is a very competitive field and these will be fillies heading in the same direction as her throughout the Autumn.

Race 4 is a BM64 handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is Near Queue who is trained by Dan O’Sullivan. I rode this mare last start with no luck at all over the same distance at Caulfield where she was up in class against the fillies. Today she drops back to a ratings race but is taking on the boys. If she has luck in running, from an awkward draw, I feel she will run very well after the feel she gave me last start where she went to the line untested.

Race 5 is a BM64 handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is Casque who is trained by Robbie Laing. This galloper will be coming into this race full of confidence following on from his last start win at Sale where he put in a dominant effort over 1100 metres. He steps up slightly in distance which should suit him and I expect him to be highly competitive again.

Race 7 is a BM70 over 1300 metres, my ride here is Booradley who is trained by the Hayes and Dabernig team. This gelding by Nicconi races in the colours of Devitt and Gordon. He is a very consistent horse who has not missed a top three placing in all of his seven race starts. He is a horse that makes his own luck and races on speed. With good form at the track and distance I expect he will be the horse they have to beat in this event.

Race 8 is the Mitavite Summer Challenge Heat 2 BM70 for fillies and mares over 1400 metres, my ride here is Duecourse who is trained by Bill Wilde. I rode this Duporth mare at her debut at Ballarat on May 24^th where she gave me a really nice feel and she had one further run before having a spell. Her two runs this preparation have seen her win on both occasions. She takes a further step up in grade here and this will be her toughest test to date, however, her effort last start at Terang was very good and I am looking forward to seeing how she measures up.  

Sale Preview

Today I’m racing at Sale where the track is rated a Good 3.

Race 2 is a 3 year old maiden over 1105 metres, my ride here is Viking Raid who is trained by James Cummings and races in the Godolphin blue colours. This gelding by Helmet had two runs last preparation before a spell and resumes first up here. His last run was at Sale over 1400 metres on August 17^th where he finished 4^th and was beaten by 1.1 lengths in what was a strong form race. I recently rode him in a jumpout at Flemington where he had blinkers on and was pleased with the way he went. He has the blinkers added to his head gear here for the first time under race conditions. From an inside drawn he should gain a nice and looks the horse to beat.

Race 4 is a maiden plate over 1405 metres, my ride here is King Kabuto who is trained by Aaron Purcell. This gelding by Helmet races in the First Light Racing colours. He had two runs last preparation including his first lifetime start at Sale where he ran well against the promising Lina’s Hero who has since been exported to Hong Kong. His first up run this time in was at Cranbourne on January 19^th over 1300 metres where he finished in second placing. He is a horse who should appreciate the slight step up in distance here and with a short run to the first turn, from an inside draw, should be able to find a nice position in the early stages. He has blinkers added to his head gear here for the first time also. This looks to be the race where he can win his maiden. 

Caulfield Preview

Today I’m racing at Caulfield and the rail is out 9 metres.

Race 1 is the Listed Inglis Premier race for the two year olds over 1200 metres, my ride here is Kinky Boom who is trained by Tony McEvoy. This Spirit Of Boom filly races in the McAlpine family colours. The majority of the field here are first starters however my filly has had the benefit of a recent official trial at Morphettville where she went extremely well when winning her trial by 8.5 lengths. She has drawn an outside barrier and will need luck in running but she is a filly who looks to have nice ability.

Race 5 is a BM78 handicap over 1100 metres, my ride here is Handsome Thief who is trained by Darren Weir. This galloper by Shamardal races in the colours of Waratah Thoroughbreds. He has been very consistent throughout his career having only been out of the top three on one occasion. He resumed first up last start with a fast finishing third at Caulfield. He is a lightly raced entire that looks like he will progress rapidly through the grades and can measure up to stakes class. Given the high opinion I have of him I expect he can account for this field of gallopers and progress on to better races.

Race 6 is the Listed W.J. Adams Stakes over 1000 metres, my ride here is Nasdex who is trained by Matt Ellerton and Simon Zahra. This gelding by Not A Single Doubt races in the colours of First Light Racing. This horse has been very consistently this preparation as he has had three starts for two wins and a third. He has winning form at Caulfield and comes into this race with confidence following on from his last start win at the same track. Although he steps up in grade here he drops in weight and will carry the minimum of 54 kilos in this small but competitive field. From an inside draw he should get an economical run in transit and I expect him to run well again.

Race 7 is BM84 over 2000 metres, my ride here is Willi Willi who is trained by Craig Widdison. This gelding by Mint Lane races for his owners John and Helen McPhee. I was successful on him last start at Flemington at the same grade when he stepped up to 1800 and I was impressed by his performance. He meets a similar field here and has gone up in weight as his rating has increased. He should appreciate the step up in distance and from barrier 4 should gain a nice run in transit and be the horse they have to beat.

Race 8 is the Group 3 Manfred Stakes over 1200 metres, my ride here is Veranillo who is trained by James Cummings. This 3 year old gelding by Medaglia D’Oro races in the Godolphin colours. This galloper has very good two year old form having run in 5 Group races before turning 3. He finished his last preparation running behind Jukebox in the Vain Stakes at Caulfield. His first up run saw him take on the older horses at Ballarat where he was beaten by half a length. With natural improvement from that run and returning to racing against his own age group, if he can recapture his good two year old form he will be very competitive here.

Race 9 is a BM84 handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is This Kid Rocks who is trained by Belinda O’Loughlin. This gelding by Super Kid has been a model of consistency in his recent racing and has been placed twice at this distance. He is coming off a last start victory at Penola over 1300 metres and on his best form can run a competitive race in this strong field.

Moonee Valley Preview

Today I’m racing at the Moonee Valley night meeting where the rail is out two metres.

Race 1 is a set weights and penalties race for the two year olds over 1200 metres, my ride here is Sanctimonious who is trained by Tony McEvoy. This colt by Foxwedge has had a short freshen up following his two runs in December. He went to Sydney for his most recent run on December 16 and raced at Randwick. After settling at the rear of the field he was able to finish off strongly over the concluding stages for fifth placing and was beaten by 2.1 lengths. He looks to be a progressive colt with good stamina that will appreciate the step up in distance. Although he has drawn a wide gate here he has previous race experience on his side and has completed a recent track gallop at Moonee Valley.

Race 2 is a no metro wins race for two year old fillies over 1000 metres, my ride here is Dharma who is trained by Ken Keys. This filly by Written Tycoon is having her first lifetime start here as are the majority of runners in this race. I have ridden her previously in track work where her work was pleasing. She is a striking chestnut filly with white markings who I’m looking forward to riding. She will need luck in running from an outside draw but I expect her to be competitive in this strong field.

Race 3 is a BM84 handicap over 3000 metres, my ride here is Cuban Fighter who is trained by Robbie Lang. His effort two starts ago where he ran second at this distance indicates that he is a genuine stayer with a get back and run on racing pattern. There doesn’t look to be a lot of pressure in this small field however he has been competitive over the distance and is a horse who we know will run the trip.

Race 4 is a BM78 handicap over 955 metres, my ride here is Gibbon who is trained by Wendy Kelly. I won on this gelding twice last preparation and he resumes first up here after a spell. I have ridden this gelding recently in trackwork and was pleased with his work and the way he has matured. Although he has not won first up he has been placed and I would be disappointed if he didn’t run well based on his trackwork.

Race 5 is a BM70 handicap over 2040 metres, my ride here is Persian Empire who is trained by Trent Busuttin and Natalie Young. This three year old colt by Savabeel races in the Ultra Racing colours. I’ve ridden him at his last two starts where he finished second on both occasions. Two starts ago at the same track and distance he was able to lead and put in a good effort where he was narrowly defeated. He had a short freshen up following this run and his most recent start at Caulfield on January 17 saw him put in another pleasing effort to run second again. He has drawn a nice barrier in this small field but competitive field and with the benefit of recent racing will take a lot of running down. He also comes in on the minimum weight of 55 kilos which is also in his favour.

Race 6 is a BM64 handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is Warragul who is trained bySylvia Thompson. This mare has been very consistent and broke her maiden status two starts ago. She is still learning her race craft and I feel an inside barrier will be an advantage to her. Her most recent effort was at Wagga where she raced the Sydney way of going and was beaten by an official margin of 0.63 length. Based on her recent form I expect her to be one of the main chances.

Race 7 is a BM78 handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is Domino Vitale who is trained by Colin Little. Two starts ago at Caulfield she had no luck in running from an outside draw and put in a very good effort. She signalled a return to winning form last time out at Ballart on January 14 where she won by 1 length in what was a dominant win. She has been very well place here in this handicap race and in this grade. Being a mare she receives a 2 kilo allowance and will carry 59 kilos. With previous form at the track and having taken natural confidence from last start she is the horse to beat.

Caulfield Preview

Today I’m racing at Caulfield where the first race is at 11am due to the expected hot weather conditions.

Race 1 is a handicap over 2000 metres, my ride here is Pretty Punk who is trained by Leon McDonald and Andrew Gluyas. This Rebel Raider mare races in the Australia flag colours of Harry Perks which is fitting given the top weight in each race over the Australia Day weekend will wear the colours of the flag. She could be the omen horse of the day. This mare has been in great form winning her last two starts and meets a similar field here to her most recent win at Flemington where I rode her on January 13^th over the same distance, she has again drawn barrier 1 as she did at Flemington. She is a busy horse who will wear ear muffs pre-race and I have a much better understand of her having ridden her previously. She goes up 1.5 kilos here however meets some of her rivals better at the weights. Being a mare in form I expect her to be making it three wins in a row.

Race 3 is the Group 3 Ladbrokes Blue Diamond Fillies Preview over 1000 metres run at set weights and penalties, my ride here is Crossing The Abbey who is trained by Tim Hughes. This 2 year old filly by Helmet put in a terrific effort when racing first up at Flemington on January 1^st where I was impressed by her under race conditions. I had ridden her in an official trial prior to her first lifetime start in the Spring, however I was unable to ride her on that occasion. She made all the running when resuming this preparation and although she only won by a narrow margin the distance to the third horse was convincing. She is a filly that races on-speed and having taken natural improvement and confidence from her win I am looking forward to seeing where she fits in as the lead up to the Blue Diamond continues.

Race 4 is the Blue Diamond Gala Dinner Plate for 3 year old fillies over 1100 metres run under set weights and penalties, my ride here is Magnesium Rose for trainer Matthew Lindsay. I rode this filly last start where she was successful at the same course and distance and she looks well placed again here today. She’s a lightly raced filly that is building an impressive record with two wins, a second and a third to date. Under the set weights and penalties conditions she will carry 56 kilos, only 1 kilo above her rivals. Although up in class she has in her favour a drop in weight based on her last start and a previous win over the course and distance. She is a very progressive filly who I’m looking forward to riding. She has been well placed by her trainer here and looks the one to beat.

Race 6 is the Michael McMahon Plate BM84 over 1400 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is Florida Pearl who is trained by Symon Wilde. This mare who is by Bianconi has been a model of consistency throughout her career. She has had 13 career starts and only been out of the placings on three occasions. She races second up here and with good second up form and a high strike rate over the distance I expect her to be extremely competitive in this strong field where she will carry the minimum weight of 54kgs.

Race 8 is the Listed John Dillon Stakes over 1400 metres, my ride here is Wyndspelle for trainer Mick Kent. I rode this entire by Iffraaj at his final start last preparation in the Group 1 Cantala Stakes where he finished third. His statics, although without winning, first up and at the track and distance are very good. If he is forward enough he is going to take a lot of beating in this competitive field after competing at Group 1 level.

Race 9 is a 1700 metre handicap, my ride here is Morton’s Fork who is trained by James Cummings. This gelding by Ad Valorem races in the Godolphin blue colours. His last win was 440 days ago where he was successful in winning the Sandown Guineas. He is a horse that gave me a great feel when winning on that day and then failed to carry that form forward after winning the Group 2 contest. He has subsequently been gelded and his three starts this preparation have been very good. He returns to Melbourne fourth up as a fit horse and from an inside barrier draw should gain an economical run in transit. He has raced well at Caulfield previously and although in this race there doesn’t look to be much pressure to Jacquinot Bay who will likely start the favourite, my horse will be the one to run him down. 

Moonee Valley Preview

On Australia Day I’m racing at the Moonee Valley night meeting.

Race 3 is a BM78 for fillies and mares over 955 metres, my ride here is Sister Kitty Mac who is trained by Symon Wilde. This race is a part of the 955 second challenge series. This mare has been racing in consistent form and comes into this race with the minimum weight of 55 kilos. She is a mare who races on-pace and from an outside draw will need luck in running to produce her best.

Race 4 is the Group 2 Carlton Draught Australia Stakes over 1200 metres run under weight for age conditions, my ride here is Brave Smash who is trained by Darren Weir. This former Japanese galloper is a 5 year old entire by Tosen Phantom and is raced by Australian Bloodstock. He has never finished out of the top 3 placings since his arrival to Australia and at his last start finished third in The Everest. He has drawn a nice barrier in two here and although racing first up his form is superior to his rivals in this small but competitive field. He is an exciting horse going forward into the Autumn and I am looking forward to riding him for the first time in this event.

Race 5 is a VOBIS Gold race over 1500 metres that is run at set weights and penalties for three year olds and upwards, my ride here is Amadeus who is trained by Mick Kent. He put in a good effort at the same course and distance last time out and has had a freshen up leading into this assignment. He has had the benefit of a recent jumpout to help return him to peak fitness given he is 5 weeks between runs. His effort two starts back where he beat subsequent Flemington winner Willi Willi was very good and is proving to be a strong form race. His most recent run at Moonee Valley on December 23^rd saw him beaten by another in-form horse in Widgie Turf. This is a very competitive race where he has drawn a good barrier and looks to be one of the main chances.

Race 7 is the BM78 LF Sign Group Summer Stayers Series Heat 1 over 2500 metres, my ride here is Raindrops On Rose who is trained by Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig. I rode this mare to victory three starts ago at Mornington where her effort was very good. Her next start at Flemington was a forgive run where from an outside draw she went forward and tired over the concluding stages. Her next start saw her narrowly defeated when stepping up in distance to 2400 at Sandown. She steps up slightly in distance again here however having drawn a wide barrier will need luck in running throughout the early stages of the race. She has the benefit of carrying the minimum weight here and with some luck can run well again.

Race 8 is the BM70 After The Last At Legends Summer Sprint Series Heat 2 over 1200 metres, my ride here is Trojan Storm who is trained by Tony McEvoy. I rode this gelding to victory last start at Ballarat where he had a tongue tie added to his head gear for the first time. He had an economical run in transit on the day and I was impressed with the way he accelerated to the line. Provided he has taken good confidence and natural improvement from that win I expect him to handle the step up in class and look forward to seeing how he measure up against BM70 grade. 

Pakenam Preview

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

Race 3 is a maiden plate over 1200 metres, my ride here is Esplanade who is trained by James Cummings. This gelding by Bernardini races in the famous Godolphin blue colours. He’s a lightly raced horse having had two career starts to date. His first lifetime start saw him go forward and make all the running before tiring over the concluding stages on a heavy track at Pakenham in May over 1400. His first up run this preparation saw him put in a pleasing effort at Geelong on January 11^th where from a wide draw he settled off speed and was able to finish off strongly over 1130 metres. He has come up with a favourable draw here where he steps up slightly in distance and has the addition of blinkers to his head gear for the first time. This race looks a suitable assignment for him to break his maiden status. 

Ballarat Preview

Today I’m racing at Ballarat where it’s a twilight meeting.

My ride in race 3 is a two year old colt by I Am Invincible called Ben Hercules for the training combination of Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig. He’s had two jumpouts at Werribee and Flemington and looks to be a horse that appreciates a good track. His recent jumpouts suggest that he has good natural speed and from an inside draw here I am looking forward to seeing if he can bring his trial form to the races.

Flemington Preview

Today I’m racing at Flemington where we are on a good track with the rail out 9 metres.

Race 1 is a BM84 handicap over 1800 metres, my ride here is Willi Willi who is trained by Craig Widdison and races in the colours of John and Helen McPhee. I’ve ridden this horse previously last season and was really impressed with the way he performed. He felt like a horse that would have a lot of upside and would improve with maturity. His runs to date this preparation have seen him closing off really strongly and he now steps up in distance sharply to the 1800 which looks like it will benefit him. Based on his recent racing he looks well placed and the one to beat in this grade.

Race 2 is a handicap over 2500 metres, my ride here is Serenade The Stars who is trained by Peter Gelagotis. This imported gelding who is by Sea The Stars races in the colours of OTI Racing, managed by Terry Henderson. Two runs ago he was very disappointing when starting favourite at Caulfield however with the addition of a tongue tie to his head gear his trainer was confident he would turn his form around and this saw him win in good style on Boxing Day. He meets a similar field here and with the confidence he has taken following on from his win, combined with a slight step up in distance he should be able to hold his winning form.

Race 3 is a 3 year old BM70 handicap over 2000 metres, my ride here is Anneka who is trained by Henry Dwyer. I have ridden her at her past two runs and she won her maiden convincingly over the same distance at Mornington last start when she went forward and made all the running. She is an interesting filly who is typical to her High Chaparral breeding and is highly strung and needs help to be kept focused while also staying calm. She is very much a staying type of filly who I am looking forward to seeing how she measures up in this grade having taken benefit from her recent racing.

Race 4 is a fillies and mares BM84 race called the Dolly’s Dream Handicap over 2000 metres, my ride here is Stormy Shore who Is trained by Ken Fythe. This race is named in honour of Amy Dolly Everett to help raise awareness of bullying and of the Dolly’s Dream foundation.

I’ve ridden this mare in her past two runs and I was really pleased with the way she responded to the addition of ear muffs as she relaxed well and finished off much better last start. She seems to meet a similar field here once again and from a favourable draw in gate 3 I expect her to gain an economical run in transit and be competitive once again.

Race 5 is a BM70 handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is Tan Tat Trusting a 4 year old gelding by Trusting who is trained by Tony McEvoy and owned by Mr Tung. I’ve ridden him once last season where he was successful in winning his maiden over 1600 at Sandown. He races second up here and with natural improvement and a favourable barrier draw I expect him to be one of the main chances.

Race 6 is the njt20cricket.com.au BM84 handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is Handsome Thief who is trained by Darren Weir. This 5 year old entire is by Shamardal and raced by prominent owner Paul Fudge of Waratah Thoroughbreds. He has been a very consistent horse that has only been out of the top 3 on one occasion in his career to date. His first up effort at Caulfield was pleasing and although he has come up with a wide barrier draw here track conditions may play in his favour depending on how the track is racing. He has given me the feel of a highly promising sprinter and for him to live up to that expectation he should be very competitive here.

Race 8 is the Kensington Stakes over 1000 metres at Listed grade, my ride here is Thermal Current he’s by Exceed and Excel and wears the Contract Racing colours. This gelding has been racing in consistent form at his past four runs this preparation and has blinkers reapplied to his head gear. He meets a highly competitive field here including the former Hong Kong galloper Amber Sky and the Group 1 placed Lord Of The Sky. If the blinkers going back on can help him improve slightly he is going to be very competitive. 

Caulfield - Preview

Wednesday January 17

This afternoon I head to Caulfield where it is the first of the city twilight Wednesday meetings. The rail is out 12m so it will be interesting to see how it races.

I start in race one, with IT’S LA PREMIERE for Luke Oliver. I was impressed with his debut performance and I think it will be a strong maiden form race. He has come up with a wide barrier draw and if he gets luck from there I would expect him to improve from his first start and be one of the main chances.

DAMASCUS DAME is my ride in race two, for Henry Dwyer and he wears the Price Bloodstock colours. I trialled her before she resumed this preparation and thought she was going well and then she was very dominant winning her Maiden. She comes into this race second up with confidence and steps up slightly in trip but she was very strong through the line, so it should benefit her. She has drawn a wide barrier so she will need luck but if she doesn’t have to do too much work she will take a lot of beating.

In race three, I ride PERSIAN EMPIRE for Trent Busuttin & Natalie Young and he wears the Ultra Racing colours. He is a 3yo taking on the older horses as he did last start over an extended trip. He has had a freshen up, drops back in trip, has drawn a nice gate and he has nice ability. He seems to make his own luck by putting himself on the speed. I’m looking forward to see how he has come back and he should take a power of beating.

VILLA ROSA is my ride in race five, for Aaron Purcell and she wears the Pope Racing colours. I was really pleased with her return to form last time. She now steps up slightly in trip and there does look to be good pressure, so that should suit. She can get keen and want to get the job over and done with quickly but so if she relaxes, I expect her to be very strong late.

In race six, I ride CORAM for Robert Hickmott. He is a horse that has been very consistent through his whole career but he only wins sparingly. I rode him at his last start and I liked the way he closed off on a day when it was hard to make ground. He’s drawn a middle gate and there doesn’t look to be too much pressure on paper. On his best form he will give this race a shake.

LET’S GO TO RIO is my ride in race seven, for Henry Dwyer and he wears the Price Bloodstock colours. He has come up with a very wide barrier draw, so it will be interesting to see what my instructions are but on his best form, he will be very competitive in this.

In the last race, race eight, I ride NEAR QUEUE for Dan O’Sullivan. She has been a very consistent mare this preparation and now she steps out to the 1600m for the first time. After her last performance which was very pleasing in what looks to be a strong form race, the extra distance shouldn’t be a problem. She has drawn a nice middle barrier and in this even race, with luck in running, she can win.