Sandown Preview

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

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

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

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

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

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

Randwick Preview

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sandown Preview

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rosehill Preview

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pakenham Preview

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

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

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

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

Sandown Preview

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rosehill Preview

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

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

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

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

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

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

Moonee Valley Preview

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wednesday Preview

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

Kyneton

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

Sandown

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

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

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

Rosehill Preview

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Moonee Valley Preview

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

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

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

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

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

Sandown Preview

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

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

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

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

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

Morphettville Preview

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

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

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

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

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

Flemington Preview

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pakenham Preview

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

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

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

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

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

Flemington Preview

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ballarat Preview

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

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

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

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

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

Blue Diamond Day Preview

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Moonee Valley Preview

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wednesday Preview

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

Kyneton

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

Caulfield

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

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

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

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

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

Flemington Preview

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Caulfield Preview

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bendigo and Moonee Valley Preview

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

Bendigo, rail out 6 metres, track good.

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

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

Moonee Valley, rail out 5 metres, track good.

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

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

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

Pakenham Preview

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

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

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

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