Sandown Preview

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

Race 1 is the BM84 Ladbrokes Back Yourself Handicap over 3000 metres, my ride here is COUNT ZERO (NZ) who is trained by Symon Wilde. This five-year-old gelding by Zed has had 24 starts for a record of three wins and nine placings. He’s had two runs at the extend distance of 3000 metres for a second and third placing. He is a versatile galloper who has been successful on top of the ground and on rain affected going. He competed in the same grade of race and over the same distance last start at Moonee Valley finishing third and just over 3.5 lengths from the winner. He finds himself very well placed today and the only horse to beat on form is the top-weight who is giving us four kilos in weight, but hasn’t raced over the distance previously. He is a horse that makes his own luck by racing on-speed and hopefully we can make it a true staying test as I know he will run out the distance strongly and will take a lot of beating.

Race 2 is the BM64 Ladbrokes Handicap over 1000 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is MR MOFEED who is trained by Jamie Edwards. This gelding by Akeed Mofeed has had five starts for a record of one win and a second placing. He comes into this race with confidence from his last start win which was on a soft track at Yarra Valley over 1000 metres. He will start from an inside barrier draw and this race will provide a good guide as to where he fits in and see if he can step up to city grade.

Race 5 is the BM64 Ladbrokes Multi Builder Handicap over 1300 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is JEALICE who is trained by Archie Alexander. This daughter of Hinchinbrook is raced by Austin Miller. She’s had five starts for a record of one win and two placings, with all of those coming in her last preparation. After winning her maiden over 1400 metres she stepped up to a strong 3YF BM64 race at Caulfield over 1600 metres and although unplaced was only 3.65 lengths from the winner. She races first up here and on her best form will take a lot of beating in this.

Race 6 is the BM64 Ladbrokes Odds Boost Handicap over 2400 metres, my ride here is HOKKAIDO MISS (JPN) who is trained by Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott. This five-year-old mare is by the Japanese sire Orfevre (JPN). She started her career racing in France and her two wins from 12 starts have both been on synthetic surfaces in Europe. She hasn’t won on Australian soil but has been placed. She races here fourth-up this preparation and will appreciate the step up in distance as her two wins have been over 2150 and 2700 metres. She doesn’t look to possess a great amount of acceleration with stamina being her key attribute.

Race 7 is the Class 1 Ladbrokes Money Back Odds Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is DUNE FIELD (NZ) who is trained by Jamie Edwards. This three-year-old gelding by Shamexpress has had five starts for a record of one win and two minor placings. He races here third-up this preparation with both of his runs this campaign being at this course. I rode him last start over 1300 metres and he was dominant in his winning effort after sitting outside the leader in a small field and going on to win by 2.75 lengths. He comes into this with confidence from that win and will start from a low barrier draw. He looks well placed here and provided he has come on again from last start, he should be the horse they all have to beat.

Race 8 is the BM64 Ladbrokes Odds Boost Exotics Handicap over 1800 metres, my ride here is ANCHORMAN (NZ) who is trained by Brian McGrath. This four-year-old gelding is by Burgundy. I had my first ride on him last week at Flemington in BM64 grade over 1600 metres. We tried to utilise his inside barrier draw and be close to the speed but he jumped slowly from the barriers. He stayed on really well and I was pleased with his effort in finishing third. He races here on the seven-day turnaround which he has done previously and will start from a wide barrier. If we can ride him closer to the speed from the draw it will be to his advantage, so hopefully being loaded last will help him to stay active behind the barriers and jump on terms. I expect he will run another solid race and if the race is run to suit him and we are able to take a closer position, he will take a lot of running down.

Flemington Preview

Today I’m riding at Flemington where it’s Super Saturday, featuring two Group 1 races. The rail is out eight metres and the track is rated in the soft range. It will be interesting to see how the track races throughout the day after racing here on Wednesday and there being significant rainfall leading into today’s meeting.

Race 1 is the Group 3 TBV Thoroughbred Breeders Stakes over 1200 metres for two-year-old fillies, my ride here is D’ARBANVILLE who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This daughter of All Too Hard is raced by Murray Thoroughbreds. She’s had one lifetime start at Bendigo where she started from the outside barrier and after going through the field, closed the race off nicely to finish third behind an impressive winner. She will start from a low barrier today and if she can utilise the draw and has come on from her first up run, she can make her presence felt.

Race 2 is the Group 2 MSS Security Sires' Produce Stakes over 1400 metres for two-year-old’s, my ride here is LARIMER STREET who is trained by Trent Busuttin & Natalie Young. This colt by Brazen Beau is raced by Seymour Bloodstock, Pope Racing and partners. I rode him in his debut run at Moonee Valley on a good 4 surface and after starting from a wide barrier he jumped slowly and was hampered by a horse knuckling in front of him. Once he was able to recompose himself and catch up to the rest of the field, he ended up getting to the front far too early and I thought his performance on the day was excellent without winning. He then contested the two-million-dollar Inglis Millennium at Warwick Farm over 1100 metres on a heavy 9 track. He didn’t show early speed on that day either and found himself back in the field but managed to close the race off extremely well. He now returns to Victoria and I’m looking forward to riding him again. The step up to 1400 metres should suit him as I have always felt he would be a Classic horse as a three-year-old but he is good enough to head to the Golden Slipper if he wins today.

Race 3 is The Nova100 Trophy over 1400 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is VEGAS KNIGHT who is trained by Colin Little. This gelding by Declaration Of War has had eight starts for a record of one win and three placings. I’ve ridden him a lot throughout the early stages of his career but only managed to ride him on raceday for the first time in the Group 2 Stutt Stakes in the Spring of last year, finishing second. We then contested the Group 1 Caulfield Guineas over 1600 metres to finish less than five lengths behind Super Seth. He then had a break from training and resumed this campaign at Moonee Valley in BM70 grade over 1200 metres and closed the race off really well to finish less than a length from the winner. He steps up to 1400 metres today and has placed twice from three attempts at the distance. He will start from a low barrier draw and drops to the minimum weight. This is a very competitive field but he has always felt like he is a horse of Group class and I expect him to be one of the main chances.

Race 4 is the Group 3 Schweppervescence Trophy over 1600 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is FABRIC (NZ) who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This four-year-old mare by Pins runs in the colours of Waikato Stud. She’s had 14 starts for a record of four wins and five placings. She is a mare I know well and have ridden her in all of her wins, including last start at the course and distance in BM84 grade. We were able to control the race last time out and she wasn’t placed under any pressure and went on to win by 2.5 lengths. She now steps up to Group 3 company and drops to the minimum weight. She has drawn a wide barrier and if we don’t have to work too hard in the early stages and she can conserve her energy, she will be very competitive in this Group race.

Race 5 is the Listed Furphy Ale March Stakes over 1400 metres, my ride here is ICONOCLASM who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This five-year-old entire by Toorak Toff is raced by Rosemont Stud and Fern Vale Farm. I’ve had three rides on him and won the Vobis Gold Sprint at Caulfield first up over 1200 metres last year. At his next start we contested the Group 1 Goodwood Handicap which wasn’t run to suit him and he was spelled soon after. Last preparation he raced consistently to win the Vobis Gold Star at Moonee Valley and raced competitively throughout that campaign. He races here first-up and has a good record when racing fresh. His work leading into his first up run has been pleasing and he looks to be one of the main chances in this based on his good statistics at the course and course and distance.

Race 6 is the Group 1 Seppelt Wines Newmarket Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is LOVING GABY who is trained by Ciaron Maher & David Eustace. Click below for a video preview. 

Race 7 is the Group 2 TAB Kewney Stakes over 1400 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is FASCINO (NZ) who is trained by Ciaron Maher & David Eustace. This daughter of Charm Spirit runs in the colours of Glentree Racing. She’s had eight starts for a record of two wins and two placings. She was able to dominate and win her maiden at her fifth career start over 1200 metres on the Ballarat synthetic. She then stepped up to Listed grade finishing fourth and just over a length from the winner at Caulfield. Two starts later she won the Group 2 Fillies Classic at Moonee Valley over 1600 metres and was subsequently spelled. She’s had one run this preparation where she finished less than two lengths from the winner in Group 3 company over 1400 metres. She stays at the same distance as last start today and has the blinkers added to her head gear for the first time. We have drawn an outside barrier and by this time of the day we will know how the track is racing. If we have luck in running she will be one of the main chances.

Race 8 is the W.F.A Group 1 TAB Australian Cup over 2000 metres, my ride here is the 2019 Melbourne Cup winner, VOW AND DECLARE, who is trained by Danny O'Brien. Click below for a video preview.

Race 9 is the Listed Incognitus Stakes over 1100 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is ABSOLUTE FLIRT who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This daughter of Stratum runs in the colours of Devitt and Gordon. This will be my first ride on her and I’m looking forward to seeing how she presents pre-race first up. She’s had 10 lifetime starts for a record of two wins and five placings. She has raced three times first up for a record of one win and a third placing and from her five attempts at the distance has only missed a top three placing once. She will start from a low barrier draw and has jumped out nicely in preparation for her return to racing. With luck in running and on her best form she has the ability to win this. 

Flemington Preview

Today I’m riding at Flemington. The rail is out four metres and the track is rated a Good 4, however there are showers forecast throughout the afternoon.

Race 2 is the BM70 Furphy Ale Sprint over 1200 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is DELUSIONS who is trained by Ciaron Maher & David Eustace. This four-year-old mare by So You Think has had 10 career starts for a record of three wins and one second placing. I was lucky enough to have her selected as my ride on the Rapid Racing Day at the same course and distance two starts ago, where we were successful. Since then she raced at Sandown and was ridden by a claiming apprentice and although unplaced, she still ran extremely well. She returns to the track and distance she won at two starts ago and meets MAGNESIUM ROSE, who finished third to us on that occasion, 2.5 kilos worse off at the weights. Mares in form tend to continue to race consistently and the fact she is a course and distance winner gives me great confidence. She has drawn barrier 1 and it will be interesting to see if it will work for or against us after I walk the track. She is a strong mare and will have no problems carrying the top weight and on her best form will take a lot of beating.

Race 4 is the BM70 Corporate Family Days at Flemington over 1600 metres for three-year-olds, my ride here is RELUCENT (NZ) who is trained by Chris Waller. This gelding by Savabeel has had eight starts for a record of one win and five placings, only missing a top three placing on two occasions and one of those was when he finished fourth in the Group 1 VRC Derby. I rode him in an official trial prior to his first up run this preparation and it gave me great confidence to see him dropping back to maiden grade for him to have a win and raise his confidence levels from the start of his preparation. Even though the winning margin at his first up run over 1400 metres wasn’t decisive, his effort was full of merit as he was held up for clear running well into the straight before hitting the line strongly. The step up in distance will be in his favour, but we have drawn the outside barrier in a small field, so it will be interesting to see what my instructions are from the draw. I think he is a quality three-year-old who will really come into his own as he continues to step up in distance this preparation. If the race is run to suit him and we have luck from the draw, he will be winning this.

Race 5 is the BM64 Saltwater River Trophy over 1600 metres, my ride here is ANCHORMAN (NZ) who is trained by Brian McGrath. This four-year-old gelding is extremely well named being by Burgundy. He’s had 20 starts for a record of two wins and six placings. He hasn’t won a race for some time but has been racing very consistently and has been competitive without winning in this grade of race. Two starts ago he finished second in BM64 grade at Benalla over 1400 metres where he closed the race off well from back in the field. Last start he dropped back to BM58 grade over 1600 metres to finish second by an official margin of 0.75 length. He has drawn a favourable barrier and if I can utilise the draw and things go our way, he looks well placed to continue his consistent form.

Race 6 is the BM78 Port Phillip Turf Club 1840 over 1400 metres, my ride here is JUMBO OZAKI who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This four-year-old gelding by Unencumbered is raced in partnership with owners’ including long-time supporters of mine, Kevin Murphy and Pat De Kretser, so it would be a wonderful result to be able to win on their horse. He’s had seven starts for a record of two wins and five placings, never missing a top three placing. I had my first ride on him last start at Sandown where he resumed for his new trainer. He put in a good effort to finish second to Bam’s On Fire, who is a stakes winning mare. He is stepping up in distance from his first up run over 1200 metres and has placed twice from two attempts over the 1400. He steps up in grade today and drops 4 kilos in weight from last start. On his best form he has the ability to win this.

Race 7 is the BM78 Melbourne Cup Carnival Corporate Hospitality On Sale over 2000 metres, my ride here is BIG SUR (NZ) who is trained by Colin Little. This six-year-old gelding by Redwood races here fifth up this preparation after returning from a long injury enforced layoff. Two starts ago I was pleased with his effort where he closed the race off well to finish less than 2.5 lengths from the winner over 1800 metres. I had high hopes for him last start over 2000 metres and even though he was beaten by 2.7 lengths, he didn’t go as well as I expected him to. He drops in grade from his recent runs and only goes up a kilo in weight. He tends to step slowly from the barriers, so it will be interesting to see if I can get him to leave on level terms and utilise his low barrier draw. We will have a good understanding of how the track is racing by this stage of the day and if he is able to re-produce his best form he can be right in this at the finish.

Race 8 is the BM64 Flemington Distance Post over 1100 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is ROCK MY FROCK (NZ) who is trained by Jason Warren. This daughter of Rock ’n’ Pop is raced by Grand Syndicates. She’s had five starts for a win and second placing, with both her win and second placing coming from her past two runs. She has drawn a high barrier and I would imagine that would not be a disadvantage over the straight course by race this race. She has drawn a barrier next to the favourite who has a lot of speed and I will be able to follow. I expect my horse will have taken natural improvement from her two runs this campaign and comes into this full of confidence. I am looking forward to seeing how she handles the occasions and acquits herself stepping up to city grade. 

Ballarat Preview

Today I’m riding at Ballarat. The rail is out five metres from the winning post to the 1600 metre mark and then returns to true for the remainder. The track surface is rated in the good range.

Race 1 is the AJM Contracting 2YO Fillies Maiden Plate over 1100 metres, my ride here is UNBLUSHING who is trained by James Cummings. This filly by Brazen Beau has had two lifetime starts and made her debut in the Group 3 Ottwa Stakes at Flemington in the Spring, finishing fifth and less than five lengths from the winner. She resumed this preparation at Flemington on the Rapid Racing afternoon where I rode her for the first time. She had the blinkers added to her head gear and after over-racing still ran extremely well to finish fourth and less than two lengths from the winner. Since then she has jumped out at Flemington and I felt that she was a lot kinder without the blinkers on and relaxed much better for me. If she maintains her kind attitude from the recent jumpout and does things right, she has the ability to dominate this race.

Race 2 is the Evergreen Turf Maiden Plate over 1200 metres, my ride here is IMSOUANE who is trained by James Cummings. This three-year-old filly by Lonhro has had one start at Werribee where she finished fifth and less than two lengths from the winner. If she has taken natural improvement from that run and has luck from the wide barrier draw, she will be one of the main chances.

Race 3 is the Cervus Equipment Maiden Plate over 2000 metres, my ride here is SWEET GOLD (GER) who is trained by Chris Waller. This imported mare by Havana Gold is raced by Star Thoroughbreds and partners. This will be her fourth run in Australia and her fourth run this campaign. I had my first ride on her last start at Sandown where she raced in a BM64 over 1800 metres. After jumping slightly slowly from the barriers she worked forward to take up an on-speed position. I feel that she is still learning how to race and after being pressured by another runner on her outside, it took her finishing burst away from her as she wasn’t able to conserve her energy. She steps up in distance and will start from a favourable barrier draw and should prove too good for these. 

Flemington Preview

Today I’m riding at Flemington where the feature race of the day is the Group 1 Australian Guineas. The rail is out two metres and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 1 is the BM84 Mittys Handicap over 1100 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is QUEEN ANNABEL who is trained by Rebecca Kelly. This six-year-old mare by Bel Esprit has been racing consistently throughout her career, winning six races and being placed a further seven times from 32 starts. She has placed once from three attempts at the course and distance where she wasn’t beaten far behind The Inevitable, who is one of the main chances in the upcoming Group 1 Newmarket handicap. She resumed this preparation at Moonee Valley with a pleasing effort where she was narrowly beaten and finished second over 955 metres and races second up here. She goes up in weight from last start but returns to racing against fillies and mares. She will start from a low barrier and on her best form against this small field she will be one of the main chances.

Race 2 is the Listed Roy Higgins Quality over 2600 metres, my ride here is DABIYR (IRE) who is trained by Chris Waller. This imported five-year-old gelding by Redoute’s Choice runs in the colours of Brae Sokolski. He is lightly raced with a record of 13 starts for five wins and three minor placings and is a talented galloper. He races here fifth-up this preparation and comes into this race with confidence from his last start win the Listed Torney Cup over 2500 metres at Moonee Valley. He is stepping up slightly in distance from last start and goes up a kilo in weight. If he holds his consistent form he will be the horse they all have to beat.

Race 3 is the Listed Very Special Kids Plate over 1000 metres for two-year-old’s, my ride here is VANGELIC who is trained by Gai Waterhouse & Adrian Bott. This filly by Vancouver won on debut in New South Wales on New Year’s Day over 1100 metres and races second up here. She looked to be very new to it all under race conditions and even though she was dominant in her winning effort, she still has plenty to learn. This will be her first attempt racing over the straight course and she has trialled nicely in preparation for her second up run. If she handles the straight course and has taken natural benefit from last start, she will take a lot of beating.

Race 4 is the Group 3 Furphy Ale Frances Tressady Stakes over 1400 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is CRYPTIC JEWEL (NZ) who is trained by Brent Stanley. This five-year-old daughter of Savabeel has had nine starts for a record of two wins and two placings and I’ve ridden her in both of her wins. I didn’t ride her first up but she looks to have returned in great order and I’m looking forward to riding her again. She races here second up and has won second up previously. This will be her first attempt in stakes grade and it will be interesting to see what my instructions are pre-race as she will start from the widest barrier. I expect her to run well at this level but we will need things to be in our favour from the tricky barrier draw to give her every possible chance.

Race 5 is the Group 3 The TAB Shaftesbury Avenue Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is BLAZEJOWSKI who is trained by Greg Eurell. This gelding by Dash for Cash has had 17 starts for a record of seven wins and five minor placings, only missing the top three placings on five occasions. He loves racing over this distance with a record of a win and two placings from four attempts and at the track and distance has a record of three starts for a win and second placing. He races here third-up this preparation and drops 1.5 kilos in weight from last start and will start from a favourable barrier draw. This is a small but highly competitive field but the race maps well for him and I can see him winning this. He is such a tough and honest competitor and I’m looking forward to having my first ride on him.

Race 7 is the Group 1 Kennedy Australian Guineas over 1600 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is SOUL PATCH who is trained by Ken Keys. Click here for a video preview.

Race 8 is the Group 2 Thoroughbred Club Blamey Stakes over 1600 metres, my ride here is FIFTY STARS (IRE) who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. Click here for a video preview.

Race 9 is the BM90 Japan Racing Association Trophy over 1200 metres, my ride here is TANIKO who is trained by James Cummings. This five-year-old mare by Medaglia d’Oro is raced by Godolphin. She’s had 21 starts for a record of six wins and five placings and has been a consistent horse throughout her career. She races here fifth up this preparation and I had my first ride on her last start at Flemington where she closed the race off strongly to finish second and was narrowly beaten. I loved the way she closed the race off last start but looking at this race there seems to be a lack of speed, which will be against her with her usual racing pattern of racing off the speed. If the race is run to suit her and the track is allowing horses to make ground she can be very competitive in this and continue her great form this campaign. 

Sandown Preview

This afternoon I’m riding at Sandown for the twilight meeting. The rail is out three metres on the Hillside circuit and the track is rated in the soft range. There has been rain leading into this meeting and with showers forecast throughout the morning it will be interesting to see how the track walks and races throughout the day.

Race 1 is the Long Fine Plate over 1300 metres, it’s a maiden race for three-year-olds. My ride here is DUNE FIELD (NZ) who is trained by Jamie Edwards. This gelding by Shamexpress has had four starts for a second and third placing. After a solid official trial at Geelong he resumed at this course and distance on February 12^th where he finished fifth and a length and a half behind By A Whisker. He will start from a wide barrier and if we have some luck against this small but competitive field he will be one of the main chances.

Race 4 is The Big Screen Company Handicap BM64 over 2400 metres, my ride here is KENTUCKY TORNADO (USA) who is trained by Chris Waller. This five-year-old mare by Mizzen Mast (USA) is raced by Brad Spicer and partners and runs in the colours of Brae Sokolski. She’s had 18 starts for a record of two wins and six placings. Two starts ago she won a Class 1 over 2330 metres at Newcastle and last start I rode her at Sandown on the Lakeside circuit over 2400 metres, finishing third. I was advised prior to riding her that she can lose ground going down the hill, which happened and she wasn’t able to maintain her gallop going down the hill but upon straightening she closed off strongly to be beaten by an official margin of 1.75 lengths. She will be suited to racing on the Hillside track more so than the Lakeside circuit of last start and if we have luck from the draw she will take a lot of beating if she runs up to her recent form.

Race 5 is the BM70 Ladbrokes Handicap over 1300 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is SELES who is trained by Chris Waller. This four-year-old mare raced by Star Thoroughbreds is well named being by I Am Invincible and out of the mare Defy The Odds. She comes into this with a consistent race record of 22 starts for three wins and seven placings. From her five attempts at the distance she has won twice and she comes into this a very fit mare who is deep into her preparation. She is dropping back in distance from her recent runs and this will be her first attempt racing the Melbourne way of going. She is a horse that usually settles back in the field but it would be good to be able to utilise her low barrier draw if possible so she doesn’t have to work too hard. Although she hasn’t won for some time, she has been racing consistently and it would be nice to see her back in the winners’ circle. Hopefully the change to racing the Melbourne way of going can bring out the best in her and she can return to winning form.

Race 7 is the BM78 Thoroughbred Club Handicap over 1800 metres, my ride here is DARLAMAX who is trained by Mark Webb. This four-year-old gelding by Rebel Raider is lightly raced for his age having had eight starts for a record of two wins and five placings, only missing a top three placing once. He is a horse that wears a barrier blanket and can get upset in the barriers. He was scratched at the gates on January 22^nd at Sandown and subsequently raced and won impressively at his most recent start in Adelaide over 1550 metres. He carries the light weight in this of 54 kilos, which he has never carried and if he is on his best behaviour and runs up to his best form, he will take a lot of beating.

Race 8 is the BM70 Ladbrokes Odds Boost Handicap over 1500 metres, my ride here is BACCHUS who is trained by Chris Waller. This three-year-old gelding by Pierro runs in the colours of Ingham Racing. I’ve ridden him in his past three starts and was successful on him two starts ago at this course over 1600 metres in maiden grade. He then stepped up to BM64 grade at Moonee Valley and was dominant in his effort to win again. He returns to racing at Sandown and is dropping back slightly in distance from his past four runs. He drops 1.5 kilos in weight from last start and I expect he will be able to handle the step up to BM70 grade. He comes into this with high confidence levels from his past two victories and is a horse in winning form. He is taking on a short-priced favourite in Heart Of Puissance, who is entered for the All Star Mile and the stable have a high opinion of, Heart Of Puissance is first up today whereas my horse is very fit, in great form and will be very competitive in this.

Caulfield Preview

Today I’m riding at Caulfield where it’s Blue Diamond Day. The rail is out three metres and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 1 is the Keno Classic Handicap over 2000 metres, my ride here is FUTURE SCORE (IRE) who is trained by Matt Cumani. This five-year-old imported gelding by Cape Cross is raced by OTI Racing and partners. He has been a consistent galloper throughout his career with a record of five wins and three placings from 14 starts. He progressed from BM78 to open handicap last preparation and I had my first ride on him when successful in the Banjo Paterson over 2600 metres at Flemington. He resumed this preparation three starts ago in winning form at Pakenham and has subsequently finished second and fifth in his next two runs. He stays at the same distance as last start and comes into this six weeks’ between runs. He will start from a low barrier draw and is well weighted in this race carrying only two kilos off the minimum. On his best form he will be one of the main chances.

Race 2 is the Group 2 Heritage Finance Caulfield Autumn Classic over 1800 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is REBEL RACER who is trained by Mark Kavanagh . This gelding by Rebel Raider is lightly raced having had only three starts and I’ve ridden him in each of his runs. He won his most recent start at Moonee Valley and is a galloper that is still learning his craft but has a lot of ability. Hopefully he has taken further benefit and race experience from last start and he comes into this with high confidence levels and in winning form. I’m looking forward to riding him again and seeing how he acquits himself at this level.

Race 4 is the Group 3 Premier Signs Mannerism Stakes over 1400 metres for mare’s, my ride here is NEWS GIRL who is trained by Geoff Duryea. This four-year-old daughter of Magnus has a great strike race with a race record of four wins and four placings from 14 starts. She’s had nine runs at the course finishing first or second on five occasions. She races here fifth up this preparation and is stepping up in distance to the 1400 metres for the second time in her career. Her first attempt over 1400 metres was when she was a three-year-old where she finished fourth and wasn’t beaten far, she looks a lot stronger now and hopefully that helps her run out the distance. She has drawn a wide barrier and usually races close to the speed, so if we don’t have to do too much work from the draw to take up a position she will take a lot of running down.

Race 5 is the Group 2 Neds Angus Armanasco Stakes over 1400 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is LADY LUPINO who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This daughter of Sebring was placed in the Group 1 Champagne Stakes over 1600 metres as a two-year-old and then didn’t come up in her next preparation. She’s had two runs this campaign and races here third-up today. I rode her last start where she took on the boys in Group 2 company, finishing just over three lengths behind Microphone. She jumped slowly from the barriers and that would have impacted the margin as she had to work hard in the early stages. If she jumps cleanly from the barriers and is able to take up an on-speed position she will be in this for a long way.

Race 7 is the Group 1 Neds Blue Diamond Stakes over 1200 metres for two-year-old’s, my ride here is PERSONAL who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This daughter of Fastnet Rock is raced by Coolmore. She’s had two starts and finished second on debut at Geelong. I then had my first ride on her at Flemington and was successful over the straight course. She started favourite on that day and even though she only won by half a length, she was held up for a long way and was impressive in her effort to the line when we gained clear room. She hasn’t raced since January but comes into this with the benefit of a recent official trial to keep her ticking over. She wore blinkers in her trial and wears them today for the first time under race conditions. She has drawn a favourable barrier and looks to be a progressive filly that can make her presence felt in this high-pressure race. Click here for a video preview. 

Race 8 is the Group 1 Neds Oakleigh Plate over 1100 metres, my ride here is BIVOUAC who is trained by James Cummings. This three-year-old colt by Exceed And Excel is raced by Godolphin. He is the Group 1 Golden Rose winner from last Spring and has an overall race record of 11 starts for five wins and four placings and is a genuine competitor. He races here first up and has a record of three starts for a win and two placings when racing fresh. He profiles well for this race with his great form at the distance and track and distance. He trialled impressively in Sydney before travelling to Melbourne and I rode him in a jumpout at Flemington last week in preparation for his first up assignment. He is a quality colt and is the horse they all have to beat. Click here for a video preview. 

Race 9 is the Group 2 Carlton Draught Peter Young Stakes over 1800 metres, my ride here is ODEON (NZ) who is trained by Mathew Ellerton & Simon Zahra. This six-year-old gelding by Zacinto had been racing consistently without winning until three starts ago when I was successful on him at the course over 1700 metres in Listed grade. Since that win he was beaten by just over a length at Flemington by Galaxy Raider, who has franked the form by winning again. At his most recent start at this course over 1600 metres we finished second to Miss Siska, who we meet again today and are better in at the weights than her. We have drawn a wide barrier but if we are able to take up a position without doing too much work, he will be one of the main chances. 

Moonee Valley Preview

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

Race 3 is the BM70 Leneva Park Handicap over 1000 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is VIVARO who is trained by James Cummings. This daughter of Exceed And Excel is raced by Godolphin. She’s had eight lifetime starts for one win and three second placings. She is an out and out sprinter and has always displayed high speed in her races and is a filly that makes her own luck by racing on speed. She races here second up this campaign after a solid effort first up that saw her finish second on soft ground over 900 metres at Newcastle. She comes into this fitter for her first up run and will start from a wide barrier in a small field. There looks to be a fair amount of pressure on paper drawn below her, and if she doesn’t have to work too hard in the early stages it will be to her advantage.

Race 7 is the Group 3 Typhoon Tracy Stakes over 1200 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is EARLY MORNING RISE (NZ) who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This daughter of Fastnet Rock runs in the Waikato Stud colours for Gary and Mark Chittick. She’s had six starts for a record of one win and three placings and started her career off racing in New Zealand. Since being transferred to Australia she hasn’t finished further back than second placing from three starts, and she races here fourth-up this preparation. She will start from a favourable barrier and is a filly that seems to have a versatile racing pattern, winning her maiden when ridden on-speed and then being narrowly beaten after settling mid-field at her next start. This is a small but highly competitive field but I am sure she can take the step up to Group 3 company.

Race 8 is the BM70 Drummond Golf Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is VEGAS KNIGHT who is trained by Colin Little. This three-year-old gelding by Declaration Of War is taking on the older horses in this BM70 contest. He’s had seven starts for one win and three placings. Last preparation he progressed from maiden through to benchmark grade and then to Listed and Group company and I finished second on him in the Group 2 Stutt Stakes at this course over 1600 metres. He then ran in the Group 1 Caulfield Guineas running very well to finish just under five lengths from the winner. I have galloped him and ridden him in a jumpout in preparation for his return and I was pleased with the feel he gave me. He will start from a low barrier draw and will take a lot of beating in this.

Pakenham Preview

Tonight I’m riding at Pakenham for the night meeting. The rail is out three metres and the track is rated in the soft range.

Race 4 is the Iron Jack Australian Lagers 3YO Maiden Plate over 1400 metres, my ride here is RELUCENT (NZ) who is trained by Chris Waller. This gelding by Savabeel has had seven starts for a record of two second and three third placings. He competed in the VRC Derby at the end of his last campaign finishing fourth and runs first up here. I’ve ridden him twice, in a jumpout and official trial in preparation for his return and feel he has made solid progress. He has given me a nice feel and I am looking forward to riding him under race conditions. On his form and recent trial, he is the horse they all have to beat. I feel he will win this on his way to better races as he steps up in distance throughout his preparation.

Sandown Preview

Today I’m riding at Sandown for the twilight meeting. The rail is in the true position on the Hillside circuit and the track is rated in the soft range, with further showers forecast throughout the day.

Race 3 is the BM70 Long Fine Plate over 2400 metres, my ride here is MENTAL TELEPATHY (NZ) who is trained by Simon Morrish. This six-year-old gelding by Shocking was raced in New Zealand before being imported to Australia at the end of his last preparation. He had one run in Australia in Listed grade over 2800 metres after arriving and was then spelled. He resumed this campaign in December last year and races here fifth up. He has stepped up in distance in each of his runs and this will be his second attempt over the 2400 this campaign. I rode him last start under open handicap conditions and he was racing well out of his grade on that occasion, he ran extremely well to finish 6.4 lengths from the winner. He returns to benchmark grade here and has the blinkers removed from his head gear, which should help him to relax through the early stages. If he reproduces his best form he is the horse they all have to beat. He is a horse that will enjoy the soft track conditions with three of his four wins coming on soft ground.

Race 6 is the BM64 Le Pine Funerals Handicap over 1800 metres, my ride here is SWEET GOLD (GER) who is trained by Chris Waller. This four-year-old mare by Havana Gold is raced by Star Thoroughbreds and partners. Imported from Germany, this mare has had two runs since arriving in Australia for a career record of eight starts for no wins and seven placings. Her two runs in Melbourne have been over 1600 metres, finishing third in both. She is still a maiden and races in BM64 grade today and given her consistent form since arriving, this is a race she can win and she will appreciate the step up in distance. 

Flemington Preview

Today I’m riding at Flemington for Black Caviar Lightning Stakes day and we are honoured that the mare herself will be at the races. She is such an amazing mare and it will be great to see her again after competing against her on a number of occasions on Group 1 horses, the ease in which she would go past me was unbelievable. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated in the good range, with showers forecast throughout the day.

Race 2 is the BM84 Furphy Ale Trophy over 1600 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is FABRIC (NZ) who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This daughter of Ocean Park is raced by Waikato Stud and partners. She’s won three times from 13 starts and I’ve ridden her in all of her wins. She races here third up this preparation and is stepping up in distance from the 1400 metres of her last two runs. First up this campaign she finished just over a length from the winner in fourth place at this track and I felt she would take a good amount of fitness benefit from her first up run. Second-up she competed at Caulfield where the track deteriorated to a Soft 7, and even though she was only 2.20 lengths from the winner, she didn’t handle the track conditions at all. She was slow out of the barriers but wasn’t comfortable on the surface to be able to chase when asked for an effort. This looks like a nice race for her third-up and she is the horse they all have to beat if the track conditions stay to her liking.

Race 4 is the BM84 York Racecourse Ebor Trophy over 2000 metres, my ride here is BIG SUR (NZ) who is trained by Colin Little. This six-year-old gelding by Redwood is raced by Rod Fitzroy and partners. He races here fourth-up this preparation and I had my first ride on him last start at Caulfield over 1800 metres. I felt he peaked on his run and ran out of fitness over the concluding stages and felt that he would be primed for his next start. He is a horse that settles back in the field and there doesn’t look to be much pressure on paper, so that will be against him if he races in his usual pattern. He is a track and distance winner and if the race is run to suit him he can be very competitive in this.

Race 5 is the Group 3 CS Hayes Stakes over 1400 metres for three-year-old colts and geldings, my ride here is SOUL PATCH who is trained by Ken Keys. This colt by Shamus Award has had six starts for a record of three wins and two placings, only missing a top three placing once, where he finished eighth in the Group 1 Caulfield Guineas. He races first-up here and has had a jumpout and official trial in preparation for his return to racing. I rode him in his official trial and was pleased with his effort. He is a winner at the course and distance and I feel he has returned in great order. This is a highly competitive field of quality three-year-old’s and I expect he can make his presence felt.

Race 6 is the BM90 Royal Ascot Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is TANIKO who is trained by James Cummings. This five-year-old mare by Medaglia d’Oro is raced by Godolphin. She’s had 20 race starts for a record of six wins and four placings. She races here fourth up this preparation and this will be her first run over the Flemington straight course. She has been in great form this preparation, finishing third first-up at Rosehill before winning second up at Randwick, and at her most recent start, she finished third again in BM94 grade. She is a horse that gets back a long way in the early stages and saves her energy for a closing burst. There doesn’t look to be too much speed in this race so her racing pattern may be against her, but she is a competitive mare in great form and will be closing off strongly.

Race 7 is the Group 1 Black Caviar Lightning over 1000 metres, my ride here is LOVING GABY who is trained by Ciaron Maher & David Eustace. This three-year-old filly by I Am Invincible is raced by Phoenix Thoroughbred and has a race record of three wins and four placings from only nine starts. I’ve had two rides on her for a win in the Group 1 Manikato Stakes at Moonee Valley and second placing in the Group 1 Darley Sprint Classic last preparation before she went for a spell. She resumes first up here and I’ve worked her in preparation for this and was very impressed with the maturity she displayed compared to last preparation. She is a lot stronger and has developed physically and was a lot more relaxed in her attitude. We competed over the straight course last start in the Spring where we beaten by Nature Strip over 1200 metres, who is a straight course specialist and is clearly the horse to beat. She is a quality filly and I expect her to make her presence felt.

Race 8 is the Group 3 The TAB Vanity over 1400 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is KATALIN who is trained by James Cummings. This filly by Medaglia d’Oro is raced by Godolphin. She’s had two lifetime starts in New South Wales, winning her maiden on debut at Warwick Farm on soft ground over 1200 metres, before winning again over 1400 metres at Newcastle in impressive style. This will be her first test at Group level and her first run the Melbourne way of going. She has drawn a wide barrier but if things go her way and we have luck from the draw, I know she can measure up to this grade.

Race 9 is The Hong Kong Jockey Club Trophy over 1400 metres, my ride here is STAR MISSILE who is trained by Greg Eurell. This four-year-old gelding by Smart Missile is raced by Hancox Racing. I’ve had two rides on him and they were both in the Spring where he won a country qualifying BM70 race at Sale, and then went on to win the Country Cup Final at Flemington on Oaks Day. He was dominant in both of those performances and I’m looking forward to seeing how he presents for his first-up run. He races here in handicap grade, hopefully on his way to the All Star Mile at Caulfield. The stable is pleased with the way he has returned and his preparation so far. He will start from an inside barrier and he showed enough last preparation to indicate that he should be able to measure up in this grade, but hopefully the rain doesn’t arrive and alter the track conditions, as it has been reported by his trainer that he doesn’t appreciate rain affected ground.

Moonee Valley Preview

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

Race 1 is the Ladbrokes Back Yourself Plate over 1000 metres for two-year-old fillies, my ride here is TATEYAMA who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This daughter of Kuroshio is having her first lifetime start this evening. She has had two jumpouts at Flemington in preparation for her debut and I rode her in her most recent heat. She wore blinkers on that occasion and displayed a good amount of acceleration after being ridden off the speed, when she got to the outside of the field she was a little bit lost and wanted to hang left. If she does everything right this evening and runs up to her jumpout she will be very competitive.

Race 2 is the Happy Valentines Tiffany Greaney Maiden Plate over 1600 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is ESCONDIDO who is trained by Chris Waller. This three-year-old gelding by Snitzel is raced by Vinery Stud and partners. He’s had four starts and even though he hasn’t finished in the top three placings, he resumed this campaign with a solid effort at Sandown over 1300 metres where he finished seventh and just over two lengths from the winner. The form from that race has been franked and it is proving to be a good reference point. He is stepping up in distance and should have every opportunity to run up to his best from the favourable barrier draw.

Race 5 is the BM84 Ladbrokes 55 Second Challenge Heat 13 over 955 metres, my ride here is KINGS OF LEON who is trained by Matthew Smith. This six-year-old gelding by I Am Invincible has had 13 starts for a race record of four wins and three placings. This will be his first run in Melbourne and he hasn’t been seen at the races for some time, with his last start being in Queensland in April 2018. He has had three official trials in Sydney in preparation for his return to racing and in his most recent effort he closed off really well. He has drawn a low barrier and if he returns to his best form first-up after his lay-off, he will make his presence felt.

Race 7 is the BM64 Dynamic Print Group Summer Sprint Series Heat 4 over 1200 metres, my ride here is ZOUMANOR who is trained by Michael Kent. This four-year-old gelding by Zoustar is raced by Ray and Sue Montague and partners. He’s had five runs this preparation and has been racing in really consistent form. He had a five-week gap between his last two runs and comes into tonight racing on a five-day turnaround after being narrowly defeated at Flemington on Sunday. On his recent and consistent form, he will take a lot of beating in this.

Pakenham Preview

This evening I’m riding at Pakenham for the night meeting. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 4 is the APM Group 3YO Fillies Maiden Plate over 1400 metres, my ride here is PREIPO (NZ) who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This daughter of Savabeel has had one lifetime start which was in August of last year. She raced on Heavy track conditions at Werribee where she was the favourite, finishing third and less than two lengths from the winner. She’s had a recent official trial at Geelong in preparation for her first-up run over 1400 metres. She will start from a favourable barrier and will get every opportunity to run up to her best from the draw.

Race 6 is the BM64 Momentum Gaming Grand Handicap Sprint Exempt Race over 1200 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is NAMIBIA who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This three-year-old filly by Smart Missile is raced by Trevor Delroy of Wyadup Valley Farm. She’s had three starts and won on debut over 1000 metres for her previous trainer at Mornington. She was then tested in Listed grade at Caulfield and even though she finished last, was just over six lengths from the winner. Her last run of that campaign was in a strong 3YO BM64 race at Moonee Valley where she finished fourth behind one of the favourites for the VRC Oaks. She has now changed trainers and I rode her recently in an official trial at Geelong where I was impressed with her performance and am looking forward to riding her under race conditions. I expect she is a filly that will be able to progress onto bigger targets throughout this preparation and this is a nice starting point for her campaign. If she brings her trial form to the races she will be the horse they all have to beat. 

Sandown Preview

This afternoon I’m riding at Sandown on the Lakeside circuit for the twilight meeting. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 1 is the Ladbrokes Plate over 1300 metres for two-year-old’s, my ride here is THE CATCH who is trained by Mathew Ellerton & Simon Zahra. This colt by Medaglia d’Oro runs in the colours of Spendthrift Australia. He made his debut at Geelong on January 26^th over 1100 metres, where he settled last in the early stages and managed to close the race off well after doing a few things wrong. The winner of that race was Riverina Storm who I rode last week in the Group 2 Blue Diamond Prelude and she acquitted herself well, finishing fourth. He is stepping up in distance today which looks like it will be to his advantage and he will be one of the main chances.

Race 2 is the Clanbrooke Racing Maiden Plate over 1300 metres, my ride here is BY A WHISKER who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This three-year-old gelding by Fastnet Rock has had four starts for one third placing. His third placing came first up last preparation at Bendigo over 1300 metres where he finished behind Antagoniser, who is a horse I ride today in Race 4. By A Whisker races here second-up and has changes to his head gear with the blinkers being removed and the winkers and tongue tie going on. I’m hoping the gear changes and natural improvement from his first up effort can help him produce an improved performance and he can be competitive in this.

Race 3 is the BM64 Ladbrokes Back Yourself Handicap over 2400 metres, my ride here is KENTUCKY TORNADO (USA) who is trained by Chris Waller. This five-year-old mare is by the American stallion Mizzen Mast (USA). She is deep into her racing preparation and races here sixth-up this campaign. She comes into this race a dominant last start winner and will have a good amount of confidence from that victory where she beat the stablemate, WRISTBAND, who she meets again here today. She will start from a low barrier draw and this race looks ideal for her and she will take a lot of beating.

Race 4 is the BM64 Le Pine Funerals Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is ANTAGONISER who is trained by Mark Kavanagh. This three-year-old colt by Excelebration (IRE) is raced by Eales Racing and partners. He is lightly raced and has a race record of one win and three placings from six starts. I rode him at Flemington at the start of this preparation over 1200 metres and his recent form at his next two starts has been very good as he stepped up to 1400 and 1600 metres respectively. I’m looking forward to riding him again and he will be one of the main contenders in this.

Race 5 is the BM64 Ladbrokes Odds Boost Handicap over 1300 metres, my ride here is DIAMOND INTHE BUFF (NZ) who is trained by Ray Matthews. This four-year-old mare by Foreplay is very lightly raced having had only two lifetime starts. Both of her runs have been this year, she finished fourth on debut at Benalla before winning her maiden last start in convincing style at Kyneton. She steps up from maiden grade today and is also stepping up slightly in distance. She looks to be a mare with a nice amount of natural ability and it will be good to see how she presents pre-race and have my first ride on her to see where she fits in moving forward through the Autumn.

Race 6 is the BM64 MRC 6 Month Membership Handicap over 1400 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is ELLIS PARK who is trained by Mark Kavanagh. I rode this gelding by Dissident in his debut run at the course over 1300 metres and was impressed by his winning performance. He steps up slightly in distance here which should suit him for his second career start. I feel he is a very progressive type and I’m confident he can win against this strong field on his way to better races.

Race 8 is the BM78 Thoroughbred Club Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is BIANCONI MAGIC who is trained by Jerome Hunter. This four-year-old by Bianconi is a lightly raced gelding with race record of four wins and three placings from 12 career starts. I’ve had two rides on him, finishing third two starts ago at Flemington over 1400 metres where I was able to utilise his inside barrier draw and ride him close to the speed. He then raced at Geelong where he jumped awkwardly from the barriers with an apprentice rider. I was re-united with him last start at the course and distance, he was again slow out of the barriers and with the field going slowly he wanted to over-race, but still closed the race off very well to be beaten by half a length into second place. He has drawn an inside barrier and if we can utilise the good draw he will get every opportunity. He races up in grade from his last start and drops 4 kilos in weight which will be to his advantage. If he produces his best form he can win this. 

Flemington Preview

This afternoon I’m riding at Flemington for the first Rapid Racing meeting, starting at 4:00pm. The rail is out 12 metres and the track is rated in the good range. This meeting is a unique concept with all races being contested over the straight course distances and riders being allocated horses and riders split into Country and Metro teams. Another unique feature is that riders will wear their team colours for the day, with the Metro team wearing the colours of Navy Blue, Tangerine Metro Logo, Sleeves, Peak And Pom Pom.

Race 1 is the Firstly Sprint over 1000 metres for two-year-old’s, my ride here is UNBLUSHING who is trained by James Cummings. This daughter of Brazen Beau has had one lifetime start at the course and distance in the Group 3 Ottawa Stakes in the Spring where she finished fifth, less than five lengths from the winner. I expect she will have taken natural improvement from that run and she races first up here with the blinkers applied to her head gear for the first time. Her previous experience over the course and distance will hold her in good stead and she should take a lot of beating.

Race 2 is the BM64 Maxcap Dash over 1200 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is NAMIMO who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This daughter of Choisir has had 11 starts for a record of one win and four placings. She’s had three starts this preparation and won her maiden two starts ago at Sandown over 1200 metres. Last start she raced in 3F BM64 grade over 1300 metres and was beaten by an official margin of 1.75 lengths. She is a very fit horse coming into this and is dropping back slightly in distance from last start. I’m looking forward to riding her and seeing if she can continue her consistent form this preparation.

Race 3 is the BM64 Tick Homes Plate over 1000 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is OURZACRACKER who is trained by Christopher Davis. This gelding by Redente is a maiden with a race record of two second placings from six starts. He is racing out of his grade and due to the conditions of this meeting the weights are not in his favour. It would be a good result for connections if he could win his maiden at Flemington in this grade.

Race 5 is the BM78 QMS Sprint over 1200 metres, my ride here is SCOTTISH ROGUE who is trained by Tony & Calvin McEvoy. This four-year-old gelding by Rothesay has had 20 starts for a record of three wins and seven minor placings. He races here first up this preparation and even though he hasn’t won first up previously, he has been placed. He enjoys racing over the distance as all of his wins have been over the 1200 metres. I’ve ridden him previously when he was a three-year-old, finishing second at Flemington over 1600 metres in Listed grade. On his best form he can make his presence felt in this.

Race 7 is the BM70 Resimax Group Jockey Challenge Trophy over 1200 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is DELUSIONS who is trained by Ciaron Maher & David Eustace. This lightly raced daughter of So You Think has had eight starts for a record of two wins and a second placing. She has had three starts this campaign and returned in winning form in BM58 grade over 1000 metres at Terang in December. She then raced in BM64 grade at Geelong where she finished less than three lengths from the winner. Her most recent start was in F&M BM70 grade at Sandown on the Lakeside circuit where she put in a very good effort to be narrowly beaten into second place. This will be her first time racing over the straight course and it will be interesting to see how she handles the straight for the first time and if she can continue her recent consistent form. 

Caulfield Preview

Today I’m riding at Caulfield. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated in the good range. It’s the first Group 1 meeting of the year and I’m looking forward to arriving on course and walking the track ahead of the days racing to see how it might play.

Race 1 is the Big Screen Company Hcp over 1800 metres, my ride here is SIR PIPPIN (GB) who is trained by Chris Waller. This five-year-old gelding by Intello is raced by Go Racing and partners. He is a horse that seems to enjoy racing at Caulfield as his record at the track reads two wins from three starts. Last start although he finished fourth at the track, he was beaten by less than two lengths and the winner, Vaucluse Bay, has franked the form by winning again last Saturday. He has drawn a wide barrier and stays on the minimum weight of 54 kilos and looks well placed to continue his good strike rate around the Caulfield circuit.

Race 2 is the Group 3 Kevin Hayes Stakes over 1200 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is ENFLEURAGE who is trained by James Cummings. This daughter of Exceed And Excel is raced by Godolphin. She is a progressive filly with a record of three wins and a third placing from six starts. She races here fifth-up and has been in great form this campaign. This will be her first start in Melbourne and she has been a versatile mare that handles all racing surfaces, winning on heavy ground last start over 1300 metres. She is a horse that races close to the speed making her own luck and will start from a wide barrier today. If we don’t have to work too hard from the draw in the early stages and she handles the Caulfield track, she will take a lot of running down.

Race 3 is the Group 2 Neds Blue Diamond Prelude over 1100 metres for fillies, my ride here is RIVERINA STORM who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This filly is by the highly promising European stallion Night of Thunder (IRE), who is a son of Dubawi and shuttled to Australia for one season. She is raced by Quat Quatta Thoroughbreds. She has had one lifetime start, winning on debut in an impressive performance at Geelong over 1100 metres. She races over the same distance today and if she is able to win or run very well here she will head towards the Group 1 Blue Diamond Stakes in two weeks’ time. 

Race 4 is the Group 3 Neds Blue Diamond Prelude over 1100 metres for two-year-old colts and geldings, my ride here is WINSUM who is trained by Ken Keys. This colt by Wandjina is owned by the Keys family and makes his debut here. I have ridden him in a couple of jumpouts in preparation for his debut run and have been very impressed with his performances. He had a recent jumpout against the older horses and I felt that will help him as he still did a few things wrong, he was still able to win his heat and gave me a nice feel in doing so. He will start from a wide barrier and if he can put it all together under raceday conditions and pressure he will be very competitive.

Race 5 is the Group 2 Hyland Race Colours Autumn Stakes over 1400 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is LADY LUPINO who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This daughter of Sebring has had eight starts for a record of two wins and a third placing. Her third placing came in the Group 1 Champagne Stakes in Sydney during the Autumn when she was a two-year-old. She then had two unplaced runs where she had issues and was given a break from training. She resumed this preparation last start at Caulfield over 1100 metres, finishing eighth of nine runners but was only beaten by 3.1 lengths. She steps up in distance today and will be fitter from her first up run. She is a filly that races on speed and if the race is run to suit her and she finds her best form she has the ability to figure in the finish.

Race 6 is the Group 2 Schweppes Rubiton Stakes over 1100 metres, my ride here is BOLD STAR who is trained by Gordon Richards. This four-year-old gelding by Needs Further is a very competitive and talented galloper with a race record of seven wins and four second placings from 17 starts. I’ve had two rides on him for two wins and two riding suspensions! After my two rides on him he finished second in the Group 3 Standish at Flemington before winning the Kensington Stakes at Listed grade. He steps up in grade and weight today but he is a horse in great form and I’m looking forward to riding him again and it will be a good test to see where he fits in going forward.

Race 7 is the Group 3 Supergardens TS Carlyon Cup over 1600 metres, my ride here is ODEON (NZ) who is trained by Mathew Ellerton & Simon Zahra. This six-year-old gelding is by Zacinto. He is a horse that had been racing consistently without winning for some time, but two stars ago I partnered him to win in Listed grade over 1700 metres at this track and it was great to see him back in the winner’s circle. He then ran at Flemington over 1600 metres and finished fourth, only a length from the winner. He comes into this race four weeks between runs and I rode him recently at Flemington in preparation for this race, he was a little bit fresh but was solid in his effort. He is a very consistent horse and I feel I was able to find the key to him two starts ago and if we can do the same again today, he will run very well as he is a horse that has competed at the highest level throughout his career.

Race 8 is the Group 1 W.F.A Neds C.F. Orr Stakes over 1400 metres, my ride here is FIERCE IMPACT (JPN) who is trained by Matthew Smith. This six-year-old entire is by the recently deceased Japanese sire Deep Impact. Ever since the blinkers have been added to his head gear he has only been beaten once, where he finished second behind Kolding who subsequently won the Group 1 Epsom Handicap and Golden Eagle. I’ve had two rides on Fierce Impact for two wins with success in the Group 1 Toorak Handicap at Caulfield and Group 1 Cantala Stakes at Flemington, both over 1600 metres. His trainer Matthew Smith is happy with the way he has returned this preparation and he finished his last preparation full of confidence. His two official trials leading into his return have been solid and I’m looking forward to seeing how he presents pre-race. On his best form he is the horse they all have to beat. Click here for a video preview. 

Race 9 is the Group 3 Mud House Rosé Bellmaine Stakes over 1200 metres for mares, my ride here is MY PENDANT (NZ) who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This daughter of Pins runs in the colours of Waikato Stud. She resumed this preparation over a distance she had never raced over of 1000 metres and they went extremely slow for a sprint race, she was out sprinted and although she finished last in a small field was only 2.95 lengths from the winner. She will have taken natural fitness benefit from her first up run and can make her presence felt in this.

Moonee Valley Preview

This evening I’m riding at the Moonee Valley night meeting. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated in the good range. Due to the cancellation of last week’s night meeting there are two extra races added to the program this evening.

Race 1 is the Schweppes Plate over 1600 metres for maidens, my ride here is REBEL RACER who is trained by Mark Kavanagh. I’ve ridden this three-year-old gelding by Rebel Raider in both of his career runs. On debut we finished second at Sandown over 1200 metres where he was very new and inexperienced in running and did a few things wrong. At his next start he stepped up to 1300 metres, again at Sandown, and after drawing a wide barrier was ridden back in the field. They went slow in the early stages and he was left flatfooted and the field out sprinted him, but I felt he was solid in his effort to the line in finishing fifth and less than two lengths from the winner. He will appreciate the step up in distance to 1600 metres and will have taken benefit from his two previous runs. With luck in running he will be the horse they all have to beat.

Race 4 is the BM64 Lipton Kombucha Handicap over 3000 metres, my ride here is PATRIOTIC (NZ) who is trained by Paul Preusker. This four-year-old gelding by Raise the Flag is raced by John Richards. He is lightly raced for his age having had just five starts for a record of one win and a second placing. He races here fifth up this preparation and this will be his first time racing over the 3000 metres. His last two runs have been solid efforts that saw him win his maiden two starts ago over 2000 metres at Warrnambool before stepping up to BM64 grade at Sandown over 2400 metres where he closed the race off extremely well. The extra distance will be to his advantage and he is a horse that looks to take a lot of riding and reminds me a little bit of Yogi. Provided he runs out the trip solidly he will be one of the main contenders in this.

Race 5 is the BM78 Pepsi Max Summer Stayers Series Heat 3 over 2500 metres, my ride here is PRINTMAKER who is trained by Symon Wilde. This four-year-old gelding by Lucas Cranach has had 13 starts for a record of three wins and two minor placings. He is deep into his racing preparation and will be at peak fitness for his sixth run this preparation. He has been racing very consistently over 2000 metres and this will be his first attempt over 2500 metres. He is racing up in grade from his previous runs and subsequently drops to the minimum weight. If he can handle the step up in grade with the light weight he can be competitive in this.

Race 6 is the BM64 Jason Gilpin Memorial Handicap over 1000 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is LA ZOLA who is trained by Cindy Alderson. I had my first ride on this daughter of Written Tycoon last start at Caulfield in BM78 grade where she ran extremely well to finish third when ridden off the speed. I had no luck in the straight and with luck, I felt that she would have gone close to winning. She drops back in grade here, will start from a low barrier draw and if she runs up to her last start effort she will take a lot of beating.

Race 7 is the BM64 Ladbrokes 55 Second Challenge Heat 12 over 955 metres, my ride here is FIGHT who is trained by Nikki Burke. This four-year-old gelding by Fighting Sun is lightly raced having had five starts for a record of two wins and two placings, only missing a top three placing once, which was at the end of his last preparation before going for a spell. I’ve ridden him in a jumpout in preparation for his first up run and was pleased with the feel he gave me. He races here with the blinkers going back on and will start from an inside barrier draw. If he runs up to his form from last preparation I expect he will one of the main chances.

Race 8 is the BM70 Adapt Handicap over 2040 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is IGNORED (NZ) who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This four-year-old mare by Savabeel runs the colours of Waikato Stud. I had my first ride on her last start at Sandown where we finished just over a length and a half from the winner in BM70 grade over 2100 metres. She returns to fillies and mares grade here and will start from a wide barrier. She will have the red pre-race ear-muffs added to her head gear for the first time and hopefully this will help keep her settled as she is a bit highly strung and has lots of nervous energy pre-race. If she races well under the night racing conditions and conserves her energy pre-race, I expect she can run a very bold race this evening.

Race 9 is the BM64 Cool Ridge Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is BACCHUS who is trained by Chris Waller. This three-year-old gelding by Pierro is raced by Ingham Racing. I’ve ridden him in his past two starts. Two starts ago we raced in the same grade and distance as this event and he was highly unlucky when finishing third, beaten just over half a length. At his next start we dropped back to maiden grade and he dominated a very weak field over 1600 metres which will give him a lot of confidence coming into this race. I rode him at Moonee Valley on Monday morning and was pleased with him and I’m looking forward to riding him again under race conditions. With luck in running he is the horse they all have to beat.

Race 10 is the BM70 Schweppes Summer Sprint Series Heat 3 over 1000 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is WALTONIA who is trained by Luke Oliver. This four-year-old mare by Bel Esprit is raced by Lauriston Thoroughbred Farm and partners. She races here third-up this preparation and resumed this campaign in winning form over 1000 metres at Echuca. She then stepped up to F&M BM78 grade last start when I rode her at Moonee Valley over 955 metres, even though the official beaten margin reads 3.8 lengths, we had no luck and I felt with clear running she could have won. If she runs up to that form and has luck in running she will be winning this.

Caulfield Preview

Today I’m riding at Caulfield. The rail is out 10 metres and the track is currently rated in the soft range with rain and poor weather forecast for the rest of the day. It will be interesting to see if the weather deteriorates throughout the day and how the racing conditions change.

Race 3 is the All Star Mile @ MRC March 14 Hcp over 2407 metres, my ride here is MENTAL TELEPATHY (NZ) who is trained by Simon Morrish. This six-year-old gelding by Shocking started his career off racing in New Zealand before being imported to Australia. He had one run in Melbourne at the end of his last campaign before being spelled. This preparation he has had three runs and has gradually been stepping up in distance in each of those. He hasn’t won at this distance but has winning form over 2100 metres. He is a horse that seems to be getting back in his races and racing a little bit keenly, but then closes off nicely. He is racing outside of his rating grade and comes into this handicap with a rating of 69. He has the advantage of a low barrier draw and he will have to race up to his best form to be competitive in this small but strong field. This race will provide a good guide on where he fits in and the direction he might take in the staying races through the Autumn.

Race 4 is the BM78 Robert Hunter Handicap over 1100 metres, my ride here is PROPELLE who is trained by Mathew Ellerton & Simon Zahra. This four-year-old mare by Smart Missile is raced by Carol Watson and partners. She is lightly raced having had 14 starts for a record of three wins and five placings. I have ridden her previously and was successful on her at the end of her three-year-old season. She races here fifth-up this preparation and had blinkers added to her head gear last start at the course and distance. There looks to be a little bit of pressure on paper in this race and if she relaxes nicely for me and has luck in running, on her best form she can win this.

Race 6 is the BM84 Mal Seccull Handicap over 1800 metres, my ride here is BIG SUR (NZ) who is trained by Colin Little. This six-year-old gelding is by Redwood out of the mare Palos Verdes, who I won stakes races on when I was an apprentice. He is lightly raced for his age as after his last preparation he had a long period of time off after winning at Flemington in March 2018. He has had two runs this preparation over 1200 and 1600 metres respectively and really closed off well last start. He steps up in distance again here which will suit him and drops 5 kilos in weight from his last two runs. He is a horse that gets back in the early stages and in this small field there doesn’t look to be too much pressure, so he will have to run up to his best and not give them too much of a head start. On his best form he has the ability to make his presence felt.

Race 7 is the Group 3 Neds Manfred Stakes over 1200 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is DALASAN who is trained by Leon Macdonald & Andrew Gluyas. This colt by Dalakhani is raced by Harry Perks and partners. He is a very talented galloper with a race record of five wins and two second placings from eight starts. I’ve ridden him once when he was a two-year-old, finishing second at Flemington in the Group 2 Sires’ Produce. He was very green and new to it all and was only narrowly beaten. He then returned in winning form as a three-year-old when taking on the older horses in Adelaide, beating Scales Of Justice at Group 3 level. He displayed his great talent in his subsequent runs that campaign, going on to win the Group 2 Danehill Stakes at Flemington, before being narrowly beaten by Alligator Blood in the Guineas Prelude. He then had the blinkers added to his head gear in the Caulfield Guineas where he finished fifth and started from an extremely wide barrier. The blinkers were then removed from his head gear and he returned to winning form in the Carbine Club on Derby Day at Flemington, where he produced a dominant effort. He races here first up this campaign and is undefeated first-up and unbeaten over this distance. This is a small but high-quality field and he is the horse they all have to beat.

Race 8 is the Listed Neds W.J. Adams Stakes over 1000 metres, my ride here is WAGNER who is trained by James Cummings. This four-year-old gelding by Bernardini is raced by Godolphin. He has a race record of five wins and six placings from 20 starts and I’ve ridden him a couple of times throughout his career. He’s had three runs this preparation and is a horse that races well fresh and early in his campaign, as from his four first up runs he has won three times and finished second on the other occasion. He comes into this three weeks between runs and I worked him recently at Caulfield in preparation for today’s assignment where he handled the track well and worked nicely. He drops in weight from last start and carries 54.5 kilos. With luck in running he is one of the main chances.

Race 9 is the BM84 Catanach's Jewellers Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is FABRIC (NZ) who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This four-year-old mare by Ocean Park is raced by Mark Chittick of Waikato Stud and partners. She is a mare I know well, having ridden her in all of her three wins and we have winning form at the course and distance, winning at the end of her last preparation in BM90 Mares grade. She resumed this preparation at Flemington where she finished fourth and just over a length from the winner. I felt she would take a lot of improvement from that run and am looking forward to riding her again today. She will start from an outside barrier but is a mare that has a versatile racing pattern, sometimes she can step quickly and roll forward and on other occasions, she leaves the machines slowly and settles back in the field. By this race we will know if there is any bias in the way the track is racing and depending on how she jumps from the barriers and if we have luck in running, she will take a lot of beating. 

Pakenham Preview

Tonight I’m riding at the Pakenham night meeting. The rail is out 6 metres and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 3 is the GTK Constructions 2YO Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is BURLEIGH BOY who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This colt by Pride of Dubai is having his first lifetime start, as are most of his rivals with only a couple of other runners having race experience. I’ve ridden him in recent jumpouts in preparation for his debut run. Once at Werribee over 1100 metres against the older horses where he was solid in his effort and very professional. The next time I rode him was at Flemington and he was cheekier in his attitude on that day but showed nice natural speed and again was solid in his effort. I feel he is a horse that has the potential to be very competitive through his two-year-old season and will progress to racing over longer distances throughout his campaign. If he runs up to his jumpout form he will take a lot of running down. 

Sandown Preview

Today I’m riding at Sandown on the Lakeside circuit. The rail is out 6 metres and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 1 is the Ladbrokes Plate over 1200 metres for two-year-old fillies, my ride here is BABA VANGA who is trained by Jason Warren. This daughter of Nostradamus is raced by Rosemont Stud and partners. Being by Nostradamus, she will be one of his first two-year-olds to race. She’s had two jumpouts in preparation for her debut run with one of those being here at Sandown on the back straight where she finished her jumpout off solidly. She then jumped out again at Mornington against the older horses, she was a long way back but closed off nicely against some quality sprinters. She will start from a favourable barrier draw and if she brings her jumpout form to the races will take a lot of beating.

Race 2 is the Clanbrooke Racing Plate over 1300 metres for maidens, my ride here is ELLIS PARK who is trained by Mark Kavanagh. This three-year-old gelding by Dissident is making his debut here and has had two jumpouts at Flemington in preparation for today. I rode him in his most recent jumpout and he went nicely to win his heat. He feels like a horse that is still developing in his action and will continue to improve with race experience. If he produces his jumpout efforts under raceday conditions and pressure, he will be one of the main chances.

Race 6 is the BM64 Ladbrokes Odds Boost Handicap over 2100 metres, my ride here is LORICAIN who is trained by Symon Wilde. This five-year-old mare by Americain has had 13 starts for a race record of three wins and a placing. I’ve ridden her previously when she was a younger horse at Flemington, we drew an inside barrier on that occasion and she settled close to the speed in a solidly run race, which did not suit her as she is a mare that runs her best races when ridden off the speed. She is stepping up in distance and races here third-up this campaign. She is a mare that needs races run to suit her and on her best form has the ability to make her presence felt.

Race 8 is the BM70 Ladbrokes Cash Out Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is PEKO who is trained by Colin Little. This five-year-old mare by Bel Esprit is raced by Andrew Harcourt. She is lightly raced having had 12 starts for a race record of two wins and six placings. She races here third-up this preparation and is racing over the same distance as her prior runs this campaign. I’ve had one ride on her last year, finishing second at Sandown on the Hillside track. On that day she worked hard to settle outside the leader and was vulnerable over the concluding stages when beaten by LA TIGERESA, who is now subsequently stakes placed. PEKO didn’t seem to come up in her next preparation where she had two runs on soft ground. Her two runs this time in have been solid and if she finds her form from 12 months ago, she will be one of the main chances. 

Caulfield Preview

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

Race 1 is the BM78 Bass Strait Beef Plate over 1100 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is LA ZOLA who is trained by Cindy Alderson. This daughter of Written Tycoon is lightly raced with a record of one win and a second placing from six starts. She races here fifth up this preparation and at the start of this campaign, ran second over 1000 metres before winning her maiden at Wodonga over 1200 metres. She then stepped up to city grade for her next two starts competing in 3YO fillies BM70 races over 1400 metres, and although unplaced, wasn’t beaten far. She steps up in grade here, will carry the minimum weight and is dropping back in distance. She comes into this with a gap between runs and if she has freshened up nicely, will be able to make her presence felt in this small but competitive field.

Race 2 is the BM78 DrinkWise Plate over 1400 metres, my ride here is TITAN BLINDERS who is trained by Leon & Troy Corstens. This four-year-old gelding by All Too Hard is raced by Brad Spicer and Ozzie Kheir. He’s had 17 starts for a race record of four wins seven placings. He has been in consistent form this preparation, winning first up at Ballarat over 1100 metres, before finishing second over 1200 metres and third over 1400 metres at Flemington and Caulfield respectively. I rode him last start at Caulfield and was taken by his performance and effort. I also partnered him in a recent jumpout at Flemington and liked the feel he gave me. He has drawn a wide barrier but is a horse that usually settles on-speed and makes his own luck. If he doesn’t have to work too hard in the early stages from the barrier draw, he can win this.

Race 3 is the Listed Neds Blue Diamond Preview over 1000 metres for two-year-old colts and geldings, my ride here is YULONG PROGRESS who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This colt by Written Tycoon runs in the colours of Yu Long Investments. He made his debut at Flemington where he was beaten by just over two lengths. He got bumped around at the start and found himself at the back of the field and put in a good effort to close the race off nicely to finish third. Provided he has taken natural improvement from his first up run and isn’t too disadvantaged from the wide barrier draw, he will make his presence felt.

Race 4 is the Group 3 Neds Blue Diamond Preview (Fillies) over 1000 metres, my ride here is DRONE STRIKE who is trained by John McArdle. This daughter of Smart Missile is raced by the Martin family. She’s had an official trial at Pakenham where she made all the running and went on to win the trial. The horse that finished second in the trial ran last night at Moonee Valley, finishing on the heels of the winner. She has drawn a favourable barrier and if she brings her trial form to the races I expect her to feature in the finish.

Race 5 is the Lamaro's Hotel Sth Melbourne Hcp over 1400 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is GRAND ADMIRAL who is trained by Ciaron Maher & David Eustace. This colt by Snitzel is raced by Aquis Farm and partners and runs in the colours of Yu Long Investments. He’s had one lifetime start where he was the short-priced favourite at Echuca and won his maiden over 1200 metres. After watching a replay of the race, he looked to take a lot of riding the entire time and in the end, was solid in his winning effort. He races second up here with the blinkers going on for the first time and is stepping up in grade. He is a horse that looks to have a good amount of ability and the blinkers should help him focus and he will appreciate the step up in distance. It will be really interesting to see how he performs and where he can progress to through the Autumn.

Race 6 is the BM90 The Mary Bell over 1600 metres, my ride here is KAZIO who is trained by Colin Little. This six-year-old gelding by Foreplay has had 27 starts for a consistent record of five wins and 12 placings. He races here fifth up this preparation and has been very competitive this campaign. He is competing against similar horses as in his past few runs and is better off at the weights. He will start from a low barrier draw and is racing over the 1600 metres for the second this this preparation. He is yet to win over the mile but has placed three times from nine attempts. He should gain an economical run from the draw and be right there in the finish.

Race 8 is the Listed John Dillon Stakes over 1400 metres, my ride here is OCEAN’S FOURTEEN (NZ) who is trained by Simon Morrish. This five-year-old entire by Ocean Park has had an interesting career to date, as he is also a stallion that serves mares during the breeding season. He had a long lay-off due to injury and resumed this campaign with a win in BM70 grade at Kyneton. I then rode him at Flemington in BM84 grade, finishing third and beaten by just over a length. At his most recent start at this course over 1600 metres he finished fourth, just over a length from the winner. He drops back in distance and weight here and will start from a favourable barrier draw. I’m looking forward to riding him again and seeing how he competes in Listed grade.

Race 9 is the MRC Thanks Fire Services Hcp over 2000 metres, my ride here is SIR PIPPIN (GB) who is trained by Chris Waller. This five-year-old gelding by Intello is raced by Go Racing. Two starts ago I had my first ride on him and was successful at the course and distance in BM78 grade. He then raced under handicap conditions at Flemington on soft ground to be beaten by an official margin of 0.1L. His last start effort showed me that he has taken the step up in grade and he is racing under handicap conditions again today. With good form at the track, and track and distance, he is the horse they all have to beat. 

Moonee Valley Preview

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

Race 1 is the BM78 Thank you Emergency Services Summer Stayers Series Heat 1 over 2500 metres, my ride here is RELIABELLE (NZ) who is trained by Doug Harrison. This five-year-old mare by Reliable Man has been racing consistently and I’ve ridden her at her past two runs. Two starts ago she competed at the course and distance in the same grade of race, as that was a day meeting she carried the minimum of 54 kilos, and tonight she carries the minimum of 55 kilos, meeting the top weight Yulong Rising, worse off at the weights. I felt that with clear running she could have beaten him home on that occasion. Last start at Sandown she raced in BM70 grade where she was slow out of the barriers after starting from an outside draw. She got a long way back in running but made a nice run into the race and stayed on well to finish third. I’m looking forward to riding her again and hopefully I can utilise her favourable low barrier draw in the early stages. This is a small field and there doesn’t look to be too much pressure on paper. On her best form and with luck in running she will be one of the main chances in this.

Race 2 is the Quest Moonee Valley Plate over 1000 metres for two-year-old’s, my ride here is STORMBORN who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This daughter of Headwater made her debut at Flemington over the straight course on New Year’s Day, finishing third. She looked inexperienced in running and wanted to run left towards the running rail, but did look to have good natural speed. She has unfortunately drawn a wide barrier in this race so it will be interesting to see what my instructions are, and the benefit she has taken from her debut run. If she has luck from the draw and has taken a good amount of natural improvement, she can make her presence felt.

Race 3 is the BM78 Simpson Construction Summer Sprint Series Heat 1 over 1000 metres, my ride here is FORBID ME NOT who is trained by Symon Wilde. This five-year-old mare by Floral Pegasus is raced by Danny Rose and partners. She has been very well placed throughout her career with a race record of five wins and six placings from 19 starts. I rode her when she resumed this preparation at the course and distance under handicap conditions at the end of December. She drops back to racing in benchmark grade here and comes into this with a gap between runs. With her consistent record she looks to be one of the main chances.

Race 4 is the BM78 Ladbrokes 55 Second Challenge Heat 10 over 955 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is WALTONIA who is trained by Luke Oliver. This daughter of Bel Esprit runs in the colours of Lauriston Thoroughbred Farm. She is lightly racing having had 13 starts for a record of three wins and two placings. She resumed this preparation with a win at Echuca over 1000 metres on New Year’s Eve and races second up here. She is stepping up in grade from her last start win and drops 5 kilos in weight. With confidence from her last start win and the drop-in weight to offset the class rise, she should be able to make her presence felt over the concluding stages.

Sandown Preview

Today I’m riding at Sandown for the twilight meeting. The rail is out 3 metres on the Lakeside circuit and the track is rated in the good range, but there is rain and poor weather forecast. Sandown is a big open circuit and the weather conditions can alter the way the track races.

Race 1 is the Clanbrooke Racing Plate over 1600 metres, my ride here is BACCHUS who is trained by Chris Waller. This three-year-old gelding by Pierro runs in the family colours of Ingham Racing. He’s had 11 starts for four third placings. I had my first ride on him last start in BM64 grade at the course and distance, finishing third. I felt that with clear running in the straight he would have won, as he wasn’t beaten far. He will start from barrier 1 today but he did step slowly when I rode him last time, so I will have a better understanding of him for today’s race. With luck in running he will be winning this.

Race 2 is the Le Pine Funerals Plate over 1300 metres, it’s a maiden race for three-year-old’s, my ride here is REBEL RACER who is trained by Mark Kavanagh. This gelding by Rebel Raider has had one start at the course over 1200 metres where he finished second. I rode him on that occasion and he was very impressive but also very inexperienced for his debut run. He showed me good ability and will have taken a lot of natural improvement from his first day at the races. The stable has reported that the horse has trained-on well and improved from the experience. He will start from a wide barrier but I feel provided he comes on from his debut run, he will be too good for these on his way to better races.

Race 3 is the BM64 Ladbrokes Handicap over 1300 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is SPRINGROLLS who is trained by Tim Hughes. This daughter of Carlton House is raced by Balius Farm. Last preparation she raced first up in Listed grade before dropping back to maiden grade, where she was successful. I rode her on that occasion and she put in a dominant effort at Sale over 1400 metres. She then stepped up to a strong BM64 race where she was very fresh and aggressive in running and didn’t finish the race off and clearly wasn’t at her best. She races first up here and will wear the ear-muffs for the first time to help keep her settled. I’m looking forward to riding her again and seeing how she has matured after her break from training.

Race 4 is the BM70 The Big Screen Company Handicap over 2100 metres, my ride here is IGNORED (NZ) who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This four-year-old mare by Savabeel is raced by Waikato Stud. She’s had 11 starts for three wins, with all of her wins being in New Zealand. From her two starts in Australia she has been unplaced, without being beaten far over 1600 and 1800 metres respectively. She is stepping up again in distance and will start from a favourable barrier today. If she finds her best form she can be competitive in this.

Race 5 is the BM64 Ladbrokes Back Yourself Handicap over 2400 metres, my ride here is DUNS ’N’ ROSES who is trained by John Sadler. This four-year-old mare by Dundeel is raced by Owen Egan and partners. She’s had one start at this distance for a win and races here fifth up this preparation. She will start from an outside barrier and if she is able to roll forward and doesn’t have to work too hard in the early stages, she will take a lot of running down.

Race 7 is the BM70 Ladbrokes Odds Boost Handicap over 1300 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is MINYINGA who is trained by Jamie Edwards. This five-year-old daughter of Elzaam has had 18 starts for a consistent record of three wins and five placings. She races here fourth up this preparation and has drawn a middle to wide barrier. She is a horse that makes her own luck by racing close to the speed. From her four runs at this distance she has won once and placed second on another occasion. She races well on all track surfaces and can make her presence felt in this.

Race 8 is the BM70 New MRC '3 Race Day' Membership Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is JUMBO OZAKI who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This four-year-old gelding by Unencumbered is named after the top Japanese golfer. He is lightly raced and has built a good record as from his six starts he hasn’t missed a top three placing. He races here first up this campaign for his new trainer and I rode him recently in a jumpout in preparation for his return to racing where he gave me a nice feel. I’m looking forward to riding him under race conditions and he finds himself in a very competitive field. I feel he is a horse with Stakes level ability and is the horse they all have to beat.

Race 9 is the BM70 Ladbrokes Cash Out Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is BIANCONI MAGIC who is trained by Jerome Hunter. This four-year-old gelding by Bianconi is raced by Graebar Park. I rode him two starts ago where we finished third in BM70 grade at Flemington over the same distance. While he hasn’t won at the distance from his three attempts, he has finished third twice. He is a lightly raced and competitive galloper with a record of 11 starts for four wins and two placings. He will start from a wide barrier draw and has the blinkers applied to his head gear for the first time. If the blinkers have the desired outcome and we have luck in running, he will be one of the main chances. 

Flemington Preview

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

Race 1 is the Flemington Event Staff Handicap over 1100 metres for two-year-old’s, my ride here is PERSONAL who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This daughter of Fastnet Rock is raced by Coolmore and partners. She’s had one start at Geelong where she ran over a similar distance, she was slow out of the barriers and closed the race off well to finish second. This will be her first time racing over the straight course and I expect she will have taken natural improvement from her debut run and be very competitive in this.

Race 3 is the Donate to Salvation Army Disaster Appeal over 1100 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is LUCIFER’S REWARD who is trained by Brendan McCarthy. This gelding by Reward for Effort has had 10 lifetime starts for a record of two wins and three placings. He has solid form around some nice horses from the Spring as he competed in Group 3 and Listed grade. He had the blinkers applied to his head gear last start over the same distance and he was quite keen throughout before being beaten to finish third. He races here with the blinkers removed from his head gear and the winkers go back on. He will start from a low barrier draw and races here carrying one kilo above the minimum. On his best form he will take a lot of beating in this strong race.

Race 5 is the Listed Kensington Stakes over 1000 metres, my ride here is MY PENDANT (NZ) who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This four-year-old daughter of Pins runs in the Waikato Stud colours. She is lightly raced and is building a very good record with five wins and three second placings from 11 starts. She has raced very well over the straight course previously but this will be her first attempt over the short course of 1000 metres. I have ridden her in preparation for her first-up run and was pleased with the feel she gave me. If she doesn’t get run off her feet in the early stages with the quick tempo, I expect she can be closing the race off strongly.

Race 6 is the BM84 Thank You Emergency Services over 1400 metres, my ride here is FABRIC (NZ) who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This four-year-old mare by Ocean Park is also raced by Waikato Stud and partners. From her 11 race starts she has a record of three wins and five placings and has been very consistent in her career to date. I’ve ridden her in all of her wins and she has winning form at the course and distance. She isn’t an overly big mare but she has got very good ability and tries hard with her competitive nature. She races here first up this campaign and I’ve ridden her in a recent jumpout at Werribee in preparation for her return to racing. I was impressed with her manners at Werribee and feel that she has matured mentally, as last time in she could get very hot and nervous and her attitude was much better in her jumpout. She didn’t wear blinkers in her jumpout and was very relaxed throughout. She will start from an inside barrier and if we can utilise the barrier draw with the light weight of 55 kilos, she should get all the favours and take a lot of beating.

Race 9 is the BM70 Thank You Volunteers over 1800 metres, my ride here is DONNDUBHAN who is trained by Brent Stanley. This five-year-old gelding by Monaco Consul is raced by Sona Thoroughbreds. He has been racing in solid form for his past four runs netting two wins, a second and fourth placing. He enjoys racing over this distance as from his four attempts he has recorded two wins and a second placing. He is a horse that seems to make his own luck in running and comes into this at peak fitness. He looks well placed here and if he runs up to his recent form will be very competitive in this.