Moonee Valley - Preview

Saturday August 26

I start in race one, with CHARLEVOIX for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig. I’ve had three rides on him for two wins and I finished fifth on him last time when he was a certainty beaten when I didn’t get any clear running on him. When he did get out, he stormed home. If he brings his form that he shown all preparation he is the horse they have to beat.

FRAGONARD is my ride in race two, for James Cummings and she goes around in the Godolphin colours. She has excellent first up form. She has raced at the track before and has come up with a very favourable barrier draw on the inside.She should get a very economical run and take a lot of beating.

In race three, I ride TULIP for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig and she wears the Coolmore colours. I rode her to victory on debut at this track and I thought a lot of her as a 2yo in the Autumn. I have trialled her in preparation for this and like the way she has come on. I think she is a horse with high quality and is one of the top 3yo fillies. She is versatile how she can be ridden as she goes well on speed and has a great acceleration if ridden back. If she shows her ability that I think she has, she should be winning this.

BLING DYNASTY is my ride in race five, for Paul Preusker. She is undefeated at the track from two starts and both times I rode her. She had a long layoff before this preparation and Paul has done a great job to get her back in great order. She has come up with a great economical draw, has the minimum weight and will take a lot of beating.

Race six, the Listed, McKenzie Stakes, I ride BANDIPUR for James Cummings and Godolphin. He has been excellent this preparation with two wins and a second. He has showed versatility as he has taken up all the running and come from off the speed. He comes into this with race fitness and has a nice draw. He is one of the main chances in this competitive race.

LADY ESPRIT is my ride in race seven, the Listed, Carlyon Stakes for Ciaron Maher. She has excellent form at the track and distance. She has come up with a nice favourable barrier draw and there looks to be a lot of pace in the race which usually suits her. If she gets the gaps at the right time, I expect her to be one of the main chances.

In race eight, I ride I’M FEELING LUCKY for Darren Weir. She is from Perth where she had strong form and is now having her first start in Melbourne. She has come up with a tricky draw and will need luck. If she does get some luck, and brings her WA form, she will make her presence felt.

Race nine, the last race, my ride Is RUETTIGER for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig. I have won on him twice but both times have been down the straight at Flemington. His last run at Moonee Valley he finished third in a stronger race but he is quite an awkward horse. If I do get a smooth run and he races well for me, this is a race he can win.

Sandown - Preview

Wednesday August 23

I start in race one, with SHELLEY BEACH for Stuart Webb. She is having her debut run and she has trialled nicely officially and at her latest trial unofficially at Caulfield. She looks like she has nice speed. She has drawn wide but it hasn’t been a disadvantage to be drawn out in 1000m races at Sandown recently and she should make her presence felt in this.

SKY PUNCH is my ride in race two, for Lee & Anthony Freedman. He is lightly raced and has only missed a top three finish on one occasion. He has come up with an inside barrier, goes slightly up in trip and should get a favourable run from the draw. He meets a couple of horses he met last time, better at the weights and in this small and competitive field, he is one of the chances.

In race four, I ride JOURNEYGIRL for Mitch Beer & Max Hinton. She was successful last start at this track on Heavy ground. She now steps up in trip and has come up with a favourable barrier draw with the inside gate. She should get an economical run from the barrier and there does look to be plenty of pressure on speed. She comes into this with confidence and I expect her to be competitive yet again.

CARRAIG AONAIR is my ride in race five, for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig and he wears the Australian Thoroughbred Bloodstock colours. He has been very consistent at his last three runs on the synthetic track and today finds himself back onto turf. He seems to close his races off very well. He has come up with a wide barrier draw and there does look to be a lot pressure. If the track is playing evenly, I expect him to be finishing strongly.

Race seven, I ride BRAHMOS for John Sadler. I was impressed with his debut win where he skipped a Maiden and went straight to a Benchmark 64 race backing up the big opinion his trainer has of him. He is back to the track he was successful at and he goes up slightly in trip which should suit him. This is a very competitive race but the feel he gave me on debut, I expect him to step up.

CLAIRVAUX is my ride in race eight, for Matthew Williams and he wears the Australian Thoroughbred Bloodstock colours. It has been just over 12 months since this horse was successful which was at this trip. He has been racing well without getting into the money. He has come up with a nice middle barrier but he does usually get back and finish off. If the track is racing fairly, there does look to be enough pressure to give himself a chance. If he finds his right form, he is one of the chances.

Caulfield - Preview

Saturday August 19

I start in race one, with SEA THE SPARKLE for Darren Weir and she wears the Waratah Thoroughbreds colours. I have had one ride on her for a win when she resumed two starts back. Last start it was reported that she had a slow recovery. She has since had a little break and steps up to 1600m, has drawn a favourable gate and gets in on the minimum. The softer the track the better for her as she has is unbeaten in both soft ground runs. This is a very competitive race but on her best form she is one the main chances.

FURSA is my ride in race three, for Darren Weir and she wears Sheikh Mohammed Bin Khalifa Al Maktoum colours. She is having her first start in Australia after starting her career in South Africa and then last start running at Meydan in Dubai. She is a Group 2 winner as a 2yo and has run second at Group 1 level. If she brings her 2yo form to this race she is going to take a lot of beating.

In race five, the Group 3, Quizette Stakes, I ride CATCHY for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig and she wears the Crabtree colours. She is a Blue Diamond winner and I’ve been looking forward to her coming back after a break stepping out as a 3yo. I did trial her in preparation for this and I was happy the way that she had come back and matured. She is the one they all have to beat.

JUKEBOX is my ride in race six, the Group 3, Vain Stakes for Ciaron Maher and he wears Colin McKenna’s colours. He is undefeated and has had a long beak to mature. He comes into this with new shoes which indicates he has matured and strengthened in his feet, which saw him scratched on two occasions in the Autumn. I have trialled him and at his most recent trial he looked to trial very sharply. This is his toughest test to date but I believe he is a topline 3yo and if he has come back and improved, he is going to take a lot of beating in this.

Race seven, the Group 2, P.B. Lawrence Stakes, I ride HARTNELL for James Cummings and he goes around in the Godolphin colours. He is the second highest rated horse in Australia behind Winx and the stable has reported he has trained on really well into this first up run. It is a quality field but without Wink in it, I believe he is the best horse and will take a lot of beating.

SOUCHEZ is my ride in race seven, the Listed, Regal Roller Stakes for James Cummings and wears the Godolphin colours. He hasn’t raced since November, so he’s been off the racetrack for a long time. He had very solid form as a 3yo and he has trialled nicely in Sydney and I expect him to be closing the race off strongly.

Sandown - Preview

Wednesday August 16

After having a very pleasing season, winning my 6^th Victorian jockeys premiership, I was able to have a nice holiday with my family. This is my first meeting back for the new season and I’m looking forward to kicking off on a winning note.

I start in race one, with ESPERANCE for James Cummings and Godolphin. He is a very exciting 3yo who was impressing winning on debut at Echuca when he won by 8 lengths but more significantly was the time he ran. I expect him to improve with confidence and experience and make it two from two today.

WASSERGEIST is my ride in race three, for Trent Busuttin & Natalie Young. He has had one start and ran very well at the course and distance. He has had a break between runs and if he has come on, he is the horse they have to beat.

In race eight, I ride DANCING HARE for Lee & Anthony Freedman. I won her maiden two preparations ago and I thought she was a nice progressive filly over a trip. Last preparation, she didn’t live up to that expectation. I expect on her best form to be closing off well at the end.

Caulfield - Preview

Saturday July 29

I start this last meeting of the 2016/17 season three ahead of Beau Mertens in the race to the Championship.

I start in race one, with DIVINE CHILLS for John Sadler. She will have confidence after her last start victory but she has come up with the outside barrier draw. She can be versatile as she sat outside the leader last time and she has also won at Flemington over the same distance being ridden back. It will be interesting the instructions I get and it could be dictated by the strong winds forecast.

CHARLEVOIX is my ride in race two, for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig. This a restricted race for VOBIS Gold horses only and although my horse has 59.5kg he is extremely well treated at the weight scale. He has been a model of consistency at his last four starts and he is also back to 2400m and on his most recent form he should be too strong a stayer for these.

In race three, I ride SHAMPORT for Darren Weir. This is also restricted to VOBIS Gold horses. He has only had one start and he stayed on nicely and now he steps up in trip. It is a competitive race at the top of the field and I expect him to be finishing off strongly.

WINDBERN is my ride in race five, for Mick Price. She was successful last start in a very similar field and only goes up slightly in weight. She has come up with a very favourable draw and can make all or also take a sit like last time. She was strong late and comes into this race with confidence and from the draw she can make it back-to-back wins.

Race six, I ride NIL DESPERANDUM for Patrick Payne. She resumed this preparation with an impressive win in the country and now steps up in grade. For the trainer to be running her in town, gives me confidence that he has a strong opinion of her. With an economical run, just above the minimum weight and with confidence from her last start win I expect her to be extremely competitive.

WAYANKA is my ride in race seven, for Chris Waller. I rode him two start ago at Flemington when I felt he over-raced but still ran extremely well. He has had a slight freshen up, had the ear muffs applied and goes back in trip. He closed off strongly last time at this course and distance and meets much the same opposition better at the weights. He has drawn favourably and I expect him to be winning.

In race eight, the Bletchingly Stakes, I ride ABILITY for Robert Smerdon and he wears the colours of the late Phil Sly. Since being gelded, he has had three starts this time in and been victorious on each occasion. He now steps up to WFA conditions and is back on his home track and drawn nicely. I’m confident he can measure up to this grade and make it four in a row.

Race nine, the last race, my ride is COSMIC LIGHTS for Peter Morgan. I had my first ride on him two starts ago at this course where he was unlucky. I got a good feel of him and understand now how he likes to be ridden. Since then he was very competitive in the Winter Championship. He now comes back to a ratings race and is only 1.5kgs off the minimum and I feel he can finish off my good season with a win.

Sandown - Preview

Wednesday July 26

I start this meeting two ahead of Beau Mertens in the race to the Championship with two meetings to go.

I start in race one, with TAN TAT TRUSTING for Henry Dwyer. He has only had one start and he closed his race off nicely and now steps out in trip which looks like it will suit him. The trainer must have an opinion of this horse to target a city Maiden. If he has come on with that run with experience, he will go close to winning.

PERUGGIA is my ride in race two, for Darren Weir and he wears the Australian Thoroughbred Bloodstock colours. He was impressive at his latest start when he beat the older horses at Donald. He now comes back to 2yo company but he has drawn an outside gate so hopefully he doesn’t have to do too much work and if that’s the case, he will take a lot of beating.

In race three, I ride IT’S A SHAME BILLY for Udyta Clarke. He has been an ultra-consistent horse without winning and hasn’t won for over 18 months but his last start was an excellent run at the track over 1200m. He now steps up to 1300m and the longer straight should be too his advantage as he is a horse that gets back. He has only had one start at the distance for a second and in this very competitive Benchmark race, he is one of the main chances.

ACCELERATO is my ride in race four, for Tony Noonan. He has been very consistent this preparation and last start got a well deserved win so he comes into this with confidence. His win was on a Heavy 8 so any rain wouldn’t hinder his chances. He appreciates when there is a lot of speed and pressure in his races and this looks to be the case on paper with the main speed drawn wide. He has a widish draw but recently on the Hillside track it has been a huge advantage to be drawn wide on the sprint course. He is one of the leading chances.

Race five, I ride HIGH LAGO for Darren Weir and she wears the Australian Thoroughbred Bloodstock colours. I’ve ridden her on one other occasion when she finished third at Cranbourne. At her latest start she had the blinkers on for the first time and she closed off really solidly for a second at the same course. She now steps up in trip and she has come up with a wide draw but if I can find a nice position, I expect her to be really strong late.

PLUS EFFRONTE is my ride in race six, for Archie Alexander. The stable has a big opinion of this horse and he has been a very consistent horse. Last start, he was victorious so he comes into this with confidence. From an inside gate, he should get an economical run behind the speed and hopefully he can make it back-to-back wins.

In race seven, I ride PRECIOUS JOURNEY for Paul Preusker. I have ridden her at her last two starts. I was really happy how she closed off last time and it was difficult to make ground on the day so the run plenty of merit. The winner of that, franked the form by winning at Flemington on Saturday. She now steps back in grade and is very well handicapped being a mare in this open race. The longer straight of the Hillside track will be too her advantage and I expect her to be winning.

Race eight, the last race, my ride is SACRED THEME for Robert Smerdon. He is coming off a last start victory and now steps up slightly in trip. He does get back so the wide draw doesn’t look to be a disadvantage. In this very competitive race, he is one of the main chances.

Flemington - Preview

Saturday July 22

I start this meeting level with Beau Mertens in the race to the Championship with three meetings to go.

I start in race one, with GERVAISE for Danny O’Brien. He has won at the course and distance and only missed a place once form his four tries at Flemington. He is second up, where he has been successful before. He ran well first up and he now steps out to a trip that he enjoys and he’s come up with a nice middle barrier. In this competitive race, I expect him to hold his great Flemington form and hopefully make it two from two at the course and distance.

ANCHOR BID is my ride in race three for Darren Weir and she wears the Pinecliff Racing colours. This race has been put back on the racing calendar for 2yo’s over 1800m and if she wins she will automatically gains a start in the VRC Oaks. On all three of her race starts she has been closing off really well and the step up in trip will suit her.Her form is superior to that of her rivals and she is the horse they have to beat.

In race four, I ride PORTMAN for Danny O’Brien and he wears the Qatar Bloodstock colours. He resumed with a nice run at Caulfield and he now steps out to 1400m and he’s never missed a place at Flemington. He has come up with a nice barrier draw, there looks to be nice pressure in the race. Carrying a light weight, he is going to take a power of beating.

BALCAZAR is my ride in race five, for Lee & Shannon Hope. He has been racing well at his recent runs including last start at this course in the Silver Bowl Final. He has been closing off nicely but he does get back. If the track is playing evenly, I expect him to be one of the strongest late.

Race six, I ride DIVINE MR ARTIE for Brendan McCarthy. My first ride on him was 12 months ago when I was successful at Caulfield. Since then I have partnered with him to win at this course and distance. His first up run was very good and the trainer is confident that he has filled out and matured now and I’m looking forward to getting back on him. He has good straight track form, is well weighted and he is going to take a lot of beating second up.

MAGIC CONSOL is my ride in race seven, for Paul Preusker. He has been a model of consistency, not finishing out of the top two at his last three starts. He now steps up to 2000m and the trainer is confident how he has trained on since his last outing. He has come up with a nice middle draw, is versatile how he can be ridden and has the minimum weight. In this small field, that doesn’t look like there will be much pressure to Lord Durante, I will have plenty of options and he should be hard to beat.

In race eight, I ride MOONLITES CHOICE for Darren Weir and he wears the John Richards colours. She is on the quick back up after I won on her last Saturday and this is her first time out to 1400m. I felt she was really strong last time and will appreciate getting out to this trip. She has come up with a really favourable barrier on the inside and with confidence from her last start victory she will take a lot of beating.

Race nine, the last race, my ride is KNOWABLE for Steve Richards. This talented 3yo is resuming after a consistent Autumn campaign that included a placing at Group 3 level over 1400m. He won first up last preparation and has won at the track. This is his first start down the straight but he is trained on the track and will have had experienced it before. I have ridden him in a couple of recent jumpouts where he pleased me and I expect him to be one of the leading chances in this very competitive race.

Sandown - Preview

Wednesday July 19

I start this meeting one behind Beau Mertens in the race to the Championship with four meetings to go.

I start in race one, with TRISCILLA for Ciaron Maher. I rode her on debut and she was very green. Since then, I have trialled her at Caulfield and I was happy the way she has progressed with experience. She has come up with a nice middle barrier draw where half the field are first starters. If she has come on since her first run, she will be competitive.

HOLY BLADE is my ride in race two, for Darren Weir and wears the Yu Long Investments colours. He won on debut and was very impressive when he made all the running. Last start, he began awkwardly and had to do all the chasing, where he closed off nicely. He comes into this with experience at the course and distance and also has the addition of blinkers for the first time. It is a competitive race but he looks like a horse with a nice future.

In race three, I ride BRAHMOS for John Sadler. He is a first starter but I have worked him at the course and he gives me the feel of a horse with nice ability but he is stepping into a very competitive Benchmark race. He has drawn a nice barrier and if he handles the day well, he will make his presence felt.

SHEWEARSTHEPANTS is my ride in race four, for Darren Weir. I was really impressed with her run when she resumed at the track. She now steps up to a distance that she won her Maiden over. She has a nice barrier but she usually finds herself midfield or behind so she will need some luck in running. It is a competitive race but I expect her to be closing off hard.

Race five, I ride AYERS ROCK for Shawn Mathrick. He is now dropping down to his right grade after running well last start in a stronger race and he is now third up. He has an outside draw so with luck in running and if he doesn’t have to work too hard he will take a lot of running down.

GIBBON is my ride in race six, for Wendy Kelly and he wears the Ken King Thoroughbred colours. His last two starts I have been successful on him with his latest being at the course and distance. He has also come up with an inside draw which was a disadvantage last start but he was still able to get the right run and finish strongly. He has been really well placed with his runs being spaced where he seems to perform at his best. He comes into this race 1kg off the minimum and has confidence after his last two wins. He does get back so will need a little luck but he is a horse in form and I’d like to make it three from three.

In race seven, I ride KELLSTORM for Darren Weir and he wears the OTI Racing colours. He won at his first start and in Australia and since then he has been very competitive without winning. He now steps up in grade, stays at the same track and trip as last time but now gets in on the minimum weight of 54kg. He has come up with a wide barrier but if he can get a nice position he will be making his presence felt in this small but competitive field.

Race eight, the last race, my ride is SMOKIN’BELLA for Ciaron Maher. She has been in impeccable form this preparation winning two from two. She has had her runs spaced which has worked well for her. She has drawn well but she gets back, so if the track is playing evenly and you can make ground, she can win again.

Caulfield - Preview

Saturday July 15

I start in race one, with ORIENT LINE for John Moloney. He started his racing career winning his first two starts but before his last start win it was nearly two years between victories but I was impressed with his last start performance as he was dominant. He has been very consistent this preparation and that confidence will put him in good stead for today’s race. He does have a get back run style and is strong late. With the rail out 10 metres, if the track is playing even, I expect him to be hitting the line strongly.

ALJAWZAA is my ride in race two, for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig. She is second up this preparation after going down narrowly at Sandown. She did win on debut and was then put away. Prior to that victory she trialled well against Tulip. She has come up with a favourable barrier draw and should get a lovely run from there and with a run under her belt, she will take a lot of beating.

In race three, I ride MOONLITES CHOICE for Darren Weir. She won two starts ago over 1200m and then she was freshened up last time, where I rode her, over 1100m. She didn’t have any luck as she was in restricted galloping room and wasn’t fully tested. She now goes back out to a trip that she has been successful at previously. There looks to be nice pressure in this and if the track is playing even I expect her to be running over the top of them late.

ALL OUT OF LOVE is my ride in race four, for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig. He has had two runs at this course and distance and hasn’t missed a place. He has drawn a wide gate but his run style is that he usually gets back. There looks to be nice pressure in this race and if they go at a really good gallop, you’re going to need a strong horse late and that’s what this horse looks like. I expect him to continue on his good form at this course and distance.

Race five, I ride BLING DYNASTY for Paul Preusker. I have only had two rides on this horse for two wins but they were at Moonee Valley over a longer distance. He has come back from a long lay off with two very good runs. At his latest start over 1400m, he closed off very nicely with good form since coming out of that race. He is a horse that gets back and I expect him to be closing off solidly.

ENIGMAN is my ride in race six, for Ciaron Maher. I finished second on him last time at the course and distance and he was only narrowly defeated. He is against similar horses again but the top two do meet him better at the weights. He has a nice middle barrier and does have a gear change. If he has a similar type of run and can find half a length from his last outing, he will be winning this.

In race eight, I ride BEATNIKS for Matthew Dale. She is resuming this preparation and has only missed a place once in her five first up runs. She has won at the distance and her last three starts have been in Stakes company, so she is right back in grade. She is carrying the maximum weight due to her consistency and great form and I expect her to show her quality.

Race nine, the last race, my ride is HERE TO THERE for Ciaron Maher. He is a very consistent horse and was only narrowly defeated at the course and distance last time out. He is now stepping up from a rating race to an Open Handicap but he does drop nicely in weight. He has drawn the outside gate and he is a horse that is usually on speed. If he doesn’t have to work too hard early, he will take a lot of running down.

Sandown - Preview

Wednesday July 12

I start in race one, with STREET IMPACT for Robert Smerdon and Ultra Racing. She is having her first start and she has trialled once officially on the synthetic at Pakenham but I have worked her at Sandown leading into this and I have been impressed with her. She feels like a filly with above average ability and I expect a forward showing.

OCEAN MAGIC is my ride in race two, for Shane Nichols. She won two starts back at this distance and then she had her first run at Sandown last start but was back to 1000m. She now steps out to the distance she won at and from an outside draw I would expect her to be working home. If the track is playing even, she should be finishing off nicely.

In race three, I ride SEA THE SPARKLE for Darren Weir for Waratah Thoroughbreds. She has only had three starts and she has won two of those and at her latest start she was beaten less than four lengths over the Spring Carnival at Flemington behind Tavi Bay. She is resuming and has a nice inside draw, so she should get an economical run. If she has improved or holds her form from last preparation, she is one of the main chances.

POWDERWORKS is my ride in race four, for Darren Weir and Australian Bloodstock. She has been a consistent mare who hasn’t won since this time last year. If she recaptures her form that saw her finish second in the Pinker Pinker Classic, she would be one of the main chances in this small field and tactical race.

Race five, I ride YOGI for Darren Weir and Australian Thoroughbred Bloodstock. I ridden him twice for his last two wins at the track but on the longer Hillside course. He is on the Lakeside course but he is stepping up in trip which I think is a benefit for him. He does take a lot of riding but he has untapped potential and if the race is run to suit and the track is paying evenly, he will be too good for these.

HE’S A MORAL is my ride in race six, for Darren Weir. He ran very well first up when he just missed. His second up form is excellent as he has had two goes for two second. He has come up with a very favourable barrier draw in gate one and he should get every chance and take a lot beating.

In race seven, I ride PRECIOUS JOURNEY for Paul Preusker. I had my first ride on her at Bendigo last time. She was never fully tested as I couldn’t gain a run all the way up the straight. This is a competitive race that looks to have a lot of pressure up front which should suit her and from a favourable barrier I expect her to be one of the strongest horses late.

Race eight, the last race, my ride is GALAXY RAIDER for Greg Eurell. Last start I had no luck on him at all at Bendigo. I’ve had two rides on him and now I have a good understanding of him. He is a get back horse but if the track is playing fairly then he should be too good in the run home for these.

Geelong - Preview

Tuesday July 11

I start in race one, with COURAGEOUSNESS for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig and this 2yo Filly goes around in the colours of Gerry Harvey. Her first up run this preparation she finished third, beaten a long way, behind Bandipur on soft ground but she now gets on the All-Weather Track for the first time. She has come up with a wide barrier draw but this is a very soft maiden and if she has progressed from her last start, she will take a lot of beating

YOU WOULD THINK is my ride in race two, for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig. This is her first run for the new stable. She has trialled well coming into this and the widish draw will give her some room which she appreciated in her trial. She did trial well enough to be winning this race.

In race three, I ride SAILBOAT for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig and wears the Coolmore colours. She is resuming and has trialled very nicely leading into this race. She is a horse that will appreciated getting out to a longer distance later on but this does look a winnable race first up this preparation.

Caulfield - Preview

Saturday July 1

I start in race one, with OLYMPIC LAD for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig. I rode him on debut when he was unlucky. He drew the outside and I went back on him and he wasn’t fully tested as he had a lack of room in the straight. Once he did get clear, he gave me a really sharp burst and I was impressed with his performance. I expect him to improve with the experience and being drawn better today he should be one of the main chances.

ATLANTIC FOX is my ride in race two, for Jason Warren. He has been very consistent this preparation for two wins from three runs. His latest win was at Echuca on Monday where he had a big weight and beat the older horses. He now steps up to 2000m on the quick back up but he has come up with the outside barrier draw but he does get back in the races. If he has some luck in running he will make his presence felt.

In race three, I ride COSMIC LIGHTS for Peter Morgan. He has been in good form this preparation and has come up with a good barrier draw. The race looks like it will be truly run and if I can utilise his barrier draw and in this grade, he is one of the main chances.

MOONLITES CHOICE is my ride in race four, for Darren Weir. She has raced twice at the course and distance in strong races and hasn’t been beaten far. This is a strong race again today but she has come up with a nice middle gate and she should have confidence after her last start win. With luck in running, which she does need when she gets back, she will be closing off hard.

Race five, I ride A LOTTA LOVE for Sam Pritchard-Gordon. She has won at the course and distance and her last two starts have been in Group company so she is back in grade. She has had her runs spaced coming into this and she is quite versatile. She is one of the main chances in this small but competitive race.

ENIGMAN is my ride in race six, for Ciaron Maher. He’s only lightly raced for two wins from his four starts. At his last start, he was successful at Bendigo where he beat the older horses under a big weight. He comes into this race with confidence and is back against his own age group and comes into this race with a great barrier and on the minimum weight. He is a horse that is going to take a lot of beating.

In race eight, I ride ACT OF VALOUR for Henry Dwyer. He has been very consistent this preparation and hasn’t finished further back than second. He has had his races spaced and if he holds his form, he is going to take a lot of running down.

Race nine, the last race, my ride is MAGIC CONSOL for Paul Preusker. I have been really impressed with his last two performances being successful two starts back and only narrowly defeated last start. He now steps up to a distance he has relished in the past having won three times from four tries. He also gets in 1kg off the minimum and if he brings his recent form, they won’t beat him.

Sandown Hillside - Preview

Wednesday June 28

I start in race one, with TATA MADIBA for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig. This lightly raced Nicconi colt was narrowly defeated last start on Heavy ground. He does have the experience of a run this time in but he does look like a horse that wants to get on with his races and over quickly. I have to hope he works well with me as he has come up with outside barrier draw and this does look to be a very competitive race. With luck from the draw, he will make his presence felt.

TRISCILLA is my ride in race two, for Ciaron Maher. She was an expensive Exceed And Excel filly who is a half-sister to Lucia Valentino. I have seen her trial unofficial at Caulfield and I have sat on her in a piece of work. She is a speedy horse that has nice ability and I’m looking forward to seeing how she handles her first day out at the races.

In race three, I ride AIRINO for John Sadler. This race is over 1000m which is her favourite distance as she has only missed a place on two occasions. I rode her when she finished second two starts ago at Pakenham on a Heavy track. Last start she was upset and cranky and also fractious in the barriers and the race didn’t work out for her. She has come up with the outside barrier draw but she is in her right grade and if she brings her best form, she will take a lot of running down.

CAT WOMAN is my ride in race four, for John Sadler. She is only lightly raced and has one win to date. She is a horse that makes all the running and she has come up with an outside barrier draw but if I don’t have to do too much work and she races kindly for me, she will give a good kick at the end and take a lot of running down.

Race five, I ride YOGI for Darren Weir and Australian Thoroughbred Bloodstock. I was successful on him last start at the same track but he now steps up in distance which looks like it will suit. He is a horse that always gets a long way back in his races and takes a lot of riding but after having a ride on him I have a very good understanding of him. If he brings his current form and has gained confidence from the win, I expect him to be winning again.

CONCUBINE is my ride in race six, for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig. She won first up this preparation at a short trip and then last start on the Soft ground she wasn’t happy going down the hill. She now steps out to the long course that should suit her better. There does look to be high pressure in this and the firmer surface will be to her liking.

In race seven, I ride GIBBON for Wendy Kelly. He is a horse coming off a last victory on Heavy ground. I have ridden him twice and have a really good understanding of him. He does like galloping room late and he has come up with an inside barrier draw. I will have to see how the track is playing by then but if I can get away from the inside to a comfortable position I expect him to be one of the main chances.

Race eight, the last race, my ride is RAINDROPS ON ROSES for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig. I had my first ride on her last time when she finished second at the same distance. She now steps out on the bigger course but unfortunately draws an outside barrier but she is a horse that can be ridden effectively forward or back. She is very fit, extremely consistent, in on the minimum weight and if she has luck from the draw she is one of the main chances.

Flemington - Preview

Saturday June 24

I start in race one, with AMSCHEL for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig. This colt has had two starts, where he failed on debut then returned with a fast finishing third on the Geelong synthetic track and from that race, two horse have won since. The step up in trip should suit him, he has a nice middle barrier draw and I expect him to be one of the strongest horses late.

GOUGERS is my ride in race two, for John Sadler. He started this preparation with a win at Geelong over 1200m, then I rode him at Cranbourne over 1000m where he got back from a wide barrier draw and wasn’t able to get clear running until late and he steamed home once he got clear. He then stepped up to this grade and ran very well for his first time down the straight. He has come up with a nice middle draw and with the experience under his belt he is a very strong chance.

In race four, I ride SAYED for Chris Waller. This American bred gelding was successful last start at his first try in Melbourne when I won on him making all the running at Sandown. I thought he was very gallant as he made the pace and fought on hard. He stays in the same grade but goes up in weight. I expect him to have confidence and the barrier should give me an economical run and I know he will be strong late as he is back in distance.

CHARLEVOIX is my ride in race five, for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig. I have only had one ride on him for a win two starts back at Cranbourne in a BM78 grade. He then stepped up to this grade and was beaten two lengths. He now has the addition of blinkers and if they can find him the two lengths, he can win this.

Race six, I ride ABILITY for Robert Smerdon. I expected him to run well first up as he had been gelded and had worked and trialled well leading in and he took that to the track under race conditions. The stable has been happy with the way he has trained on and that’s why they have stepped him up to this level. With the minimum weight and the experience of racing down the straight, it looks like he can make it two from two this preparation.

REWARDING EFFORT is my ride in race seven, for Cindy Alderson. The trainer has targeted this horse for the race and he has come up with a nice inside barrier so he should get an economical run and this is his favourite distance. With luck in running and on the minimum weight he can make it three from three at the mile.

In race eight, I ride INVINZABEEL for Chris Waller. He is having his first run in Melbourne and gets into this race on the minimum weight. The stable has advised me he appreciates racing room when placed under pressure. With the barrier and the likely high pressure in this race the field should spread out and give him his chance to show his best.

Race nine, the last race, my ride is WAYANKA for Chris Waller. He is having his first run in Melbourne and he has been extremely consistent this preparation. He started off this preparation with two wins at 1200m and at his latest run over 1500m he was beaten less than a length carrying 60.5kg. He comes into this race with a favourable barrier draw that should give him every chance to run out the distance and get around the left-handed way. He has a nice weight only 1.5kg off the minimum and he should get every chance.

Bendigo - Preview

Wednesday June 21

I start in race one with ALL WELL for Robert Smerdon and he goes around in the Waratah Thoroughbreds colours. He won four starts back over the hurdles and in between his other two hurdle starts I finished third on him at Cranbourne over 2060m and he was beaten home by Diamond Grace who lines up in this race. He will appreciate the extra trip of today’s race as he is a true out and out stayer and usually finds himself forward and he will take a lot of running down in this competitive event.

DESTINY’S AWAKENING is my ride in race two, for Brian Gentle. He has had seven starts and been placed three times. He is trained at the track and at his most recent start he was beaten less than three lengths. He is a horse that seems to get back in his races and he has drawn a wide barrier. If the track is playing fairly I would expect him to be closing off strongly.

In race three, I ride OLYMPIC LAD for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig. He is a Bel Esprit colt having his debut run, as is most of the field. He has come up with a very wide draw and he hasn’t trialled officially. I have seen him trial unofficially at Flemington and he showed good speed and was solid through the line but he will need everything to go right from this outside draw.

PRECIOUS JOURNEY is my ride in race four, for Paul Preusker. She is a mare that won three starts ago but that was in late 2015. After that impressive win, she had more than a year off. She has had two runs this preparation and she has been encouragingly improving each start. She now gets out to a distance range she looks better placed at. She has come up with a good barrier draw and she should get an economical run from the inside gate. It is only a small field that looks to lack pace and if she can find her form from a preparation ago, then she can win this.

Race six, I ride WILLI WILLI for Craig Widdison. He was unlucky last start when he was outsprinted at the top of the straight at Sandown and then I was unable to get clear running late. He now stays at a similar trip. I have a lot of time for him and I was impressed with his win first up this preparation and then he went up in grade and ran well at Flemington. If he has luck in running, I expect him to be too strong in this line-up.

GALAXY RAIDER is my ride in race seven, for Greg Eurell. He has had excellent form throughout his career and I was excited to ride him first up at Sandown. He did begin awkwardly out of the gates and subsequently I felt it affected his performance as he was very disappointing. He has come up with a wide barrier draw and he will get back but if the track is playing evenly, there does look enough pressure in this to allow him to finish off strongly.

In the last race, race eight, my ride is DESTINY’S REWARD for Brian Gentle. He is trained at the track and first up after a freshen. He has had four first up attempts and has only been unplaced once. He races well at the course and distance and come up with a nice middle barrier draw. This is a very competitive race but on his best form from two preparations ago, he can be winning this.

Pakenham - Preview

Tuesday June 20

I start in race one, with ROCKETCOD for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig and he wears the Australian Thoroughbred Bloodstock colours. He has raced before on a synthetic surface when he resumed at Geelong this preparation where he closed off nicely for second. At his latest start, I rode him over the same distance but it was on a Heavy 9 where he travelled nicely but he failed to respond on the wet track. He gets back onto the synthetic surface, which he is proven on, and in a very soft maiden with an economical barrier, he is the one they have to beat.

ST VADUZ is my ride in race four, for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig. This colt is on debut and he hasn’t trialled officially so I’m looking forward to seeing him in the yard. There does look to be a lot of pressure on paper and he has come up with a wide barrier for his first start. If the stable is confident, they will know where he fits into the mix as they have had an amazing season of great results with their 2yo’s.

Moonee Valley - Preview

Saturday June 17

I start in race one, with TRULY DISCREET for Dan O’Sullivan. At her first start she ran over the same distance on her home track where she was a little bit slow into stride and was never tested as the runs didn’t come for her. She was beaten less than two lengths and with any luck should have had a win next to her name. I expect her to be competitive in this even race.

AIRINO is my ride in race two, John Sadler. I rode her last time on a Heavy track at Pakenham and she comes into this race with the blinkers going back on. I have experience riding her and I think the blinkers will be beneficial. She is a very fast filly that dominates races from the front and she should be suited by the tight turning track. She is a specialist at this distance and if she doesn’t have to work too hard from the draw, she will take a lot of running down.

In race three, I ride MISS VISTA for George Osborne. She is the people’s favourite as she is a standout looker as she is a painted horse with a lot of white markings. She is also very consistent mare that has been lightly raced and is a specialist at this distance but she has drawn a wide gate. There appears to plenty of pressure and if she gets a good run from the draw her form is the strongest in this race and they’ll find it hard to beat her.

DULVERTON is my ride in race four, for Robert Smerdon and she wears the Qatar Bloodstock colours. She is third up this preparation and closed off nicely with a big weight last time and she gets back to a track that she has been successful at. She will need some luck as she usually gets back and she has drawn wide so hopefully the track is playing fair and they can work home from back. I expect her to be closing off fast.

Race five, I ride RUETTIGER for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig. I was successful on this horse nearly 12 months ago but it was at Flemington and today he has to negotiate two turns. Even though this is an open handicap sprint race, there doesn’t look to be much pressure on paper but fortunately he has drawn well. He is second up and has the blinkers off and he can be keen in his races but if the gear change works and relaxes well, I expect him to be strong late.

HIGHLAND BEAT is my ride in race six, for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig. He has had no luck at his last two starts and hasn’t been fully tested. I rode him last start at this course and distance where he drew the outside barrier. He usually gets back and finishes off, unfortunately I had no room in the straight last time to test him and he was totally luckless. He is taking on similar horses and he has come up with a good barrier. If he has good luck, he will be winning this.

In race seven, I ride HURSLEY for Chris Waller and he wears the Qatar Bloodstock colours. He is a very consistent horse and he has at this course and distance twice and he has finished third on both occasions. The first time he was beaten behind Big Duke and then last start he was unlucky when beaten by Gallic Chieftain. He has come up with a favourable barrier draw but he is versatile as he can be ridden forward or off the speed and be effective both ways. He comes into this race on the minimum weight and has a favourable barrier draw and with luck in running, he should be winning this race.

Race eight, I ride MAGIC CONSOL for Paul Preusker. This a very special race to me, run in the honour of my cousin, the late Travis Harrison. I was successful on this horse last start at the course and distance when he was down in grade but had a big weight and I was impressed the way he won. He has confidence and the minimum weight today but unfortunately, he has drawn the outside so he will need some luck. It is a very competitive race but with luck from the draw he will be one of the main chances.

In the last race, race nine, my ride is FLORAL FEVER for Symon Wilde. Symon has one of the best strike rates in Victoria this season and I’m always confident riding one of his horses when he brings them to town. He is an ultra-consistent horse and this seems to be his favourite distance. He will end up jumping form a nice middle barrier draw and watching his replays he appears quite versatile so if there is a track pattern he can be ridden accordingly. After a confidence boosting win last time, he is one of the main chances and the horse they have to beat.

Sandown Hillside - Preview

Wednesday June 14

I start in race one, with ORACABESSA for Robert Smerdon. She hasn’t been getting beaten far this whole preparation and had the blinkers on for the first time last start where she rode the speed and wasn’t far away on the line. She is now back in trip, has come up with a favourable barrier and in this moderate city maiden, she looks to be one of the main chances.

LORD TENNYSON is my ride in race two, for Peter Chow. His only disappointing run this preparation was last start when coming off a quick back up which he hadn’t done before and it was a race that suited horses from off the speed. He has had a nice freshen up coming into this and he has pleased the trainer since his last start. If he brings his usual form he will take a lot of running down.

In race four, I ride LADY LEE for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig. I finished third on her last time when she drew the outside and the saddle slipped. Her effort was very good as she was awkward to ride out. She has come up with the inside barrier so she should get an economical run and she is one of the main chances in a competitive race.

BRASSY BELLE is my ride in race five, for Chris Waller. She is coming back in grade and only goes up 0.5kg in weight. She also has the blinkers off for the first time and has come up with a favourable barrier draw. If she finds her Sydney form she will be thereabouts.

Race six, I ride RAINDROPS ON ROSES for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig. She has a good barrier, is on the minimum weight, is fit and she has also been competitive at the track and distance. It is a competitive race but with the right run and her holding her form, she is one of the main chances.

YOGI is my ride in race seven, for Darren Weir and he goes around in the Australian Thoroughbred Bloodstock colours. He has won the track and he started this preparation with a fast finishing second. He has come up with an outside barrier draw but he always gets back in his races and usually finishes off hard. If the race is run to suit him and horses can make ground on the day, he will be finishing strongly over the top of them.

In race eight, the last race, l I ride CHAMPAGNE READY for Chris Waller. I like her slightly back in trip to 1400m from the 1600m. She has come up with a widish draw but she is hard fit and I like the way she is racing. I’m going into this race very confident and if the track is playing fairly, she is one of the main chances.

Doomben - Stradbroke Day Preview

Saturday June 10

I start in race two, with MISS GUNPOWDER for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig. I rode her last year when she won the 1000 Guineas prelude over 1400m. She is now in the care of Lindsay Park and has been very competitive this preparation winning her first start and finishing second in Group 3 company at her most recent start in Adelaide. She now takes on Open grade but drops to 54kg and is on the minimum. On her best and with luck from an outside draw and also being mindful this is her first time right-handed, this looks like a nice race for her to be winning.

TURBO MISS is my ride in race four, the Dane Ripper Sakes, for Darren Weir. The last time I rode her I was successful on her at Group 3 level at Flemington. If you forgive her last start, as it was at Eagle Farm on a track that was highly criticised and not many horses handled it, she has been ultra-consistent and on her best from she will be measuring up to this grade.

In race five, the Queensland Guineas, I ride OAK DOOR for Robert Smerdon. He has been successful at his home track in the Group 2 1400m Autumn Stakes. He is second up this preparation and it is his first time going right-handed. First up, he wasn’t beaten far in Listed grade against Open age horses. He’s now back against his own age group and if he doesn’t have to do too much work and settles nicely, he is going to take a lot of running down.

LORD CECIL is my ride in race six, the Group 1, J.J.Atkins for Paul Messara and he wears the Arrowfield colours. He has the blinkers coming off in an attempt to get him to relax to allow him to finish the race off. He has come up with a wide barrier draw but he will be going back anyway. In a competitive race and if he settles, I expect him to be one of the main chances.

Race seven, the Group 1 Queensland Derby, I ride SIZZLING BULLET for Chris Waller. He has come up with a wide barrier draw and he looks like he is a solid staying type. At his most recent effort he wasn’t beaten far and carried the maximum 60kg. He now drops down to Set Weights against his own age and if he has luck from the draw I expect him to be in the finish.

DERRYN is my ride in race eight, the Group 1 Stradbroke Handicap, for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig. The change of track for this meeting brings the race back to 1350m from 1400m and I think that will suit my horse. He has come up with the extreme outside barrier draw but he is a horse that gets back and the last time he was at this course he finished strongly under WFA conditions. He comes into this race on the minimum and if the track is playing that you can finish off, my target would be to get on the back of one the main chances to bring me into the race and I think he will be strong late. This race is usually won by horses with a low weight and a good 3yo can win it.

Race nine, the Brisbane Cup, I ride GRAND DREAMER for Robert Smerdon. He is coming off a last start win at Sandown, is also back in distance and he carries the minimum weight. The last time he went right-handed he was successful on soft ground at Randwick. If they do get rain throughout the day and effected the track it would only enhance his chances. He does get back and he is drawn wide so hopefully the track allows horses to finish off. On his best form, he can finish strongly in this year’s addition.

Sandown Lakeside - Preview

Wednesday June 7

I start in race one, with COSMIC IMPACT for Robert Smerdon and Ultra Racing. I rode her on debut at Seymour and nothing went right when she got back and was wide the entire race. I thought she stayed on fairly and she has now had the experience, She has come up with a nice draw and should be forward to the pace and be hard to run down.

CHAMPAGNE READY is my ride in race three, for Chris Waller. I have been very happy with her attitude this preparation and with the addition of the shadow roll. Last time she raced well and is in the same grade again but has come up with a more favourable barrier draw. She is one of the main chances.

In race four, I ride SAYED for Chris Waller. He is an American bred horse having his first run in Melbourne. He has had two runs this preparation in Sydney and comes to this with good form winning two starts ago. He looks like a lovely staying type and is one of the main chances on his most recent form.

GIN LIZZIE is my ride in race five, for Matthew Ellerton & Simon Zahra. She has had nine weeks since her last run. Her first up form is excellent and she has won four races at this distance. She has come up with a favourable barrier and should get an economical run and is one of the main chances.

Race six, I ride HETUKA ZARSHO for Matthew Ellerton & Simon Zahra and First Light Racing. He resumed with a win last time and I was very impressed with the feeling he gave me when he was dominant at Cranbourne. He now steps slightly up in trip and has an excellent draw. He has been slow into position before but if I can utilise the good barrier he can have an economical run and I can see him putting two wins on end.

WILLI WILLI is my ride in race seven, for Craig Widdison. I was impressed with his performance when I won on him first up at this track. He has since stepped out, up in grade and distance where he ran well at Flemington but I prefer him back at the 1400m of today’s race. He has come up with a nice middle draw and with two runs under his belt and more give in today’s track he is one of the main chances.

In race eight, the last race, l I ride INTRIGO for Saab Hasan. She is a very consistent mare and this preparation has been no different. She is coming off a second at the Geelong and the distance of this race, 1500m is her pet trip. I have won on her at Moonee Valley, she puts herself forward in her races and if she has a nice run with a lightweight she will be there for a long way.

Sha Tin - Preview

Sunday June 4

I start in race two, with AMAZING MOMENT for Paul O’Sullivan. Last start he finished third where he was able to box seat from an inside barrier draw and wasn’t beaten far. He now has the addition of blinkers for the first time but I will need some luck from an outside draw. On his last run and with the aid of blinkers, he is one of the main chances.

CATCHMEIFYOUCAN is my ride in race three, for Chris So. He is now down to Class 5 but the margins he has been beaten have been fairly big. He has come up with the extreme outside barrier draw and he will need some luck from there.

In race four, I ride MORDICUS for Francis Lui. He was narrowly beaten last start and he is a horse that makes his own luck and races close to the speed. If he doesn’t have to do too much work from an outside barrier I expect him to be there for a long way.

ENSURING is my ride in race five, The Hong Kong Silver Jubilee Cup for John Size. This has turned out to be a small field without much pace. I have come up with the outside barrier draw and my horse usually races off the speed. Hopefully, this race is run so that it allows my mount to finish off. If he found his best form he is one of the main chances in this competitive event.

Race six, I ride SAM’S LOVE for Dennis Yip. He has only had one start, in which he won over 1200m at the same track. He now steps up distance which looks like it will help him as he came from second last on debut. He has come up with the extreme outside barrier draw and if he has luck from the gate, he looks a likely type to put two wins together.

CIRCUIT LAND is my ride in race seven, the feature of day, The Lion Rock Trophy, for Danny Shum. He is carrying the maximum weight but that is warranted as he has been competing at the highest level in his recent runs and he was only narrowly beaten in a Group 1 race last time. He has come up with a nice draw and I do have a lot of options with him as he is a horse that has been effective ridden close to the speed or from behind. He is the one they all have to beat.

In race ten, I ride LUCKY GUY for Dennis Yip. I won on him at the end of last year at this course over 1200m, He steps up to 1400m and he is aided by a nice barrier draw where he should be afforded a nice economical run and he will be one of the main chances in this strong race.

Moonee Valley - Preview

Saturday June 3

I start in race one, with WANTED DIVA for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig and she wears the Australian Thoroughbred Bloodstock colours. She is coming of a last victory at Cranbourne where she drew an inside gate and was ridden close to the speed. She has come up with a widish draw and I would expect her to derive a lot of confidence from that and have come on also. She looks like she has nice ability and I expect her to be one of the main chances.

MAJESTIC LASS is my ride in race two, for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig. She is an ultra-consistent mare but hasn’t won for nearly a year. Her only blemish on her recent form was last start but she had an excuse. All of her wins have been at this distance and she has raced well at the track. She is on the minimum weight and if she finds her usual form she is one the main chances.

In race three, I ride ABILITY for Robert Smerdon. He hasn’t raced for nine months but I have trialled him officially and unofficially leading into this and I’ve been very happy with the way he has felt in his work. He has come up with an outside barrier but he has raced really well here and does have good stats first up. It does look like they will go very fast and I expect him to be closing off late.

FORTIFY is my ride in race four, for Henry Dwyer. He is a lightly raced gelding and he now steps to 1600m for the first time and looking at his replays, it does appear that will suit him. He has come up with an outside barrier draw but it looks like he can measure up in this even race.

Race five, I ride MAGIC CONSOL for Paul Preusker. On his most recent form he is hard to have but on his overall form he would be one of the main chances. The trainer rarely brings horses to town but when he does he has a very good strike rate. If he finds his right form he would be one of the main chances.

LOPARTEGA is my ride in race six, for Doug Harrison. I was successful on her two starts ago when she won at 1600m impressively at Sandown. Since then she competed at Group 2 level in Adelaide. She is now back in her right grade but she has come up with an outside barrier draw. She has had two starts at the track for a win and a second, so she does love this surface, which is important on this tight turning track. Despite stepping back in class, it is still a strong race for this time of the year but on her right form she is one of the main chances.

In race seven, I ride HEZA RIPPER for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig. He is very well named if you owned or supported him as he has been in the top three at half of his race starts. He has good stats at the track but he has come up with a wide draw. I do have options though, as he has been successful leading and two starts back finished off strongly at Caulfield when ridden back. By the time this race comes around, everyone will know how the track is playing and we’ll have options as he isn’t one dimensional. As always, I expect him to be very competitive.

Race eight, I ride HURSLEY for Chris Waller and he wears the Qatar Bloodstock colours. He has been in great form and the only time he ran at the course and distance I finished third on him behind Big Duke. Even if we got deteriorating conditions by the end of the day, it would only enhance his chances as he has excellent form on wet tracks. On top of the ground, which is his most recent form, he won two starts back and closed off nicely last time. He is a horse that can be ridden forward or back and I expect him to be one of the main chances.

HIGHLAND BEAT is my ride in race nine, the last race, for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig. I have ridden him on two occasions and one of those he was beaten half a length by Russian Revolution, who has gone on to be a Group 1 winner. Last time, he was one of many horses that wasn’t fully tested due to a slow tempo in the early stages but this race looks like it will be run at a quicker speed. He has come up with outside barrier draw and if we have luck from the gate he should be one of the main chances.

Pakenham - Preview

Wednesday May 31

I start in race two, with ROCKETCOD for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig and wears the Australian Thoroughbred Bloodstock colours. He has had two runs and at his latest he resumed with a second at Geelong on the synthetic track. He now steps up in trip which looks like it will suit him. He is going to be on a Heavy track for the first time but he has drawn to get an economical run.

AIRINO is my ride in race four, for John Sadler. This is her favourite distance as she has had four starts for two wins and a second. She is coming off a last start victory so she will come into this race with confidence and if she handles the track she will take a lot of running down.

In race five, I ride GIBBON for Wendy Kelly. I rode him last start when he wasn’t beaten far at Sandown. He has had his races spaced with seems to suit him and he is at his favourite distance. In this competitive race, he is one of the main chances.

MURPHY’S REWARD is my ride in race six, for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig. He won his last start at the same course and distance but that was on the synthetic course and he now goes to a Heavy track on the turf. He has competed on a Heavy track previously when he finished fifth at Ballarat, so he can get through it but I will need to be mindful that I will have to help him. He will also need some luck from an outside draw.

Race eight, I ride CROCODILE SHOES for Lee & Anthony Freedman and wears the OTI Racing colours. He had his first run in Australia last time when I rode him at Sandown. He now steps up in trip and he also goes up in grade but gets in with 3kg less than he carried then. He gave me a really good feel but his race performance was disappointing for what I feel he could be. I’m expecting an improved performance but he is also a query on the Heavy track.

Sandown - Preview

Saturday May 27

I start in race one, with THE CONSIGLIERE for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig. He has had one start for one win on the Geelong synthetic beating the older horses. He wobbled a bit around the turn but was extremely strong late. He has come up with the outside barrier draw but if he has luck from there, I expect him to be one of the main chances.

GALAXY RAIDER is my ride in race two, for Greg Eurell. He is resuming and has never been out of the top three at the course, distance or first up. One of his two wins came at this track and he has trialled extremely well at Cranbourne leading into this. He has come up with an inside barrier draw and he usually gets back but if he has luck and clear running, he is the horse to beat.

In race six, I ride JACQUINOT BAY for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig. He is a 9yo who has won nearly won $1 million in his career. He now steps back to 1600m which saw him narrowly beaten three starts ago this preparation. He has the blinkers back on which might spark him up. He has come up with a nice middle barrier draw, he usually races forward and gives himself every chance. On his strongest form, he will be one of the chances.

LADY LEE is my ride in race seven, for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig. She has been very consistent this preparation without winning and has raced well at the course. She now steps up to 1600m for the first time this preparation and from the wide draw I would I expect I’d be asked to ride her back and let her finish off. If they can make ground she should be finishing off nicely.

Race eight, I ride VALLIANO for David & Ben Hayes & Tom Dabernig. He hasn’t won this preparation but his runs have been good and solid. If he finds his Spring form from last year he will be one of the main chances.