Seymour Preview

Today I’m riding at Seymour. The rail is out 5 metres and the track is rated in the soft range. There has been rain overnight and further showers are forecast throughout the day, so it will be interesting to see how the track plays.

Race 1 is the JBL Catering 3YO Fillies Maiden Plate over 1300 metres, my ride here is FAIRY WAND who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This daughter of Redoute’s Choice had one start last season where I rode her at Sandown. She raced on soft ground that day and from an outside barrier went back to last, she got speared off on the turn but ran extremely well. I’m really looking forward to seeing her pre-race to see how she has developed and matured during her spell. I know she has above average ability, she has again drawn a wide barrier but I’m expecting her ability and class will prevail.

Race 2 is the Parker Bros. Earthmoving Maiden Plate over 1000 metres, my ride here is BELLARINE BEAUTY who is trained by Leon & Troy Corstens. This three-year-old filly by Not a Single Doubt is making her debut here. Although I haven’t ridden her, I have seen her jumpout over the straight course at Flemington where she displayed good speed and looked to travel nicely with limited pressure. If she produces that same effort at the races I expect she will be very hard to beat.

Race 6 is the Lloyd Sound Fillies and Mares BM58 Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is CLEVER BLAZE who is trained by Bevan Laming. This six-year-old mare is by Bel Esprit. She’s had 28 starts and has won or placed on 13 occasions. I had my first race ride on her two starts ago at Sandown over the same distance on soft ground and felt that she didn’t handle travelling down the hill in the soft ground on that day. She is dropping down in grade here, has drawn a favourable barrier and on her best form, will take a lot of beating.

Race 9 is the Bet365 Protest Promise BM64 Handicap over 2027 metres, my ride here is QUEEN LEONORA who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This daughter of Savabeel runs in the colours of Waikato Stud. I’ve ridden her three times throughout her career and after my most recent ride on her over 2000 metres, she pulled up lame. She’s had three runs this preparation and has been building gradually in distance each time. She’s had two runs in this distance range, placing second once. She is a versatile mare that races well on soft and firm ground. She has drawn an outside barrier and if the race is run at a strong pace, she will be highly competitive. 

Sandown Preview

Today I’m riding at Sandown on the Hillside circuit. The rail is out 12 metres and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 6 is the BM64 handicap over 1300 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is EXCUSED who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This daughter of Medaglia d’Oro is raced by Darren Thomas of Seymour Bloodstock and Colin and Janice McKenna. She has had two lifetime starts, and I won on her when she made her debut at this course over 1000 metres on a heavy track. At her most recent run she stepped up to Group 3 company at Caulfield, finishing just over three lengths from the winner. She is stepping up in distance, returns to the track where she won on debut and will also be racing on a firmer surface. This is a very competitive race and she looks to be one of the main chances.

Race 8 is the BM78 handicap over 1000 metres, my ride here is AMADEUS who is trained by Michael Kent. This seven-year-old entire by Amadeus Wolf is raced by Joan Walker. He races here first up and from his four attempts when racing fresh has only missed a top three placing once. He won over the 1000 metres at his debut run as a three-year-old when I rode him at Pakenham, some four-years ago. He is such an honest and consistent horse with good ability and I’m looking forward to seeing how he presents pre-race. He does carry the top weight and will run with 62.5 kilos. He is such a professional horse who always runs well and it would be a meaningful result if we are successful today as his owner, Joan Walker, lost her husband recently and our thoughts go out to Joan and her family. 

Geelong Preview

Happy Father’s Day to all Father’s on this special day.

Today I’m riding at Geelong. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated in the soft range.

Race 1 is the SV 3YO Fillies Maiden Plate over 1300 metres, my ride here is LOOK SHARPISH who is trained by Leon & Troy Corstens. This daughter of Pins is having her first start today. I haven’t ridden her in trackwork but I have watched one of her jumpouts at Flemington where she finished just behind Triton Rising, who started favourite in a maiden at Sandown on Wednesday. She has blinkers applied to her head gear and will start from a wide barrier draw. I am looking forward to seeing how she presents and performs under raceday conditions and pressure.

Race 2 is the 3YO Maiden Plate over 1400 metres, my ride here is NERONE who is trained by James Cummings. This colt by Hallowed Crown is raced by Godolphin. He has been to the races once before where he finished third at Sale over 1100 metres. He steps up in distance here and will start from an outside barrier. I expect that he will have taken natural improvement and experience from his first start and will take a lot of beating in this race. 

Caulfield Preview

Today I’m riding at Caulfield and it’s the first Group 1 meeting of the new racing season. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 4 is the Listed ZircoDATA Heatherlie Stakes over 1700 metres, my ride here is VALAC who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This eight-year-old gelding by Dark Angel was imported to Australia after starting his career in Europe. He has had 25 starts for a record of seven wins and 10 minor placings, only missing the top three on eight occasions. I had my first ride on him last start in Adelaide over 2500 metres where we won the Group 3 Queens Cup during the South Australian carnival. He runs first up here and will carry the minimum weight from a low barrier draw. I’m looking forward to seeing how he presents pre-race and his effort here will provide a good guide on where he is likely to head throughout the spring.

Race 5 is the Group 3 H.D.F. McNeil Stakes over 1200 metres for three-year-olds, my ride here is SEBRAKATE who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This colt by Sebring runs in the colours of Seymour Bloodstock. I had my first ride on him two starts ago when he was dominant in a two-year-old race at Flemington over 1200 metres. He then had a spell and resumed this preparation at Caulfield where he finished second over 1100 metres to Bivouac, who was very impressive. He will have taken natural fitness improvement with the benefit of his first up run under his belt and if he has some luck in running, will be one of the main chances in this small field. I was impressed with the feel he gave me the first time I rode him and I expect he will measure up throughout the spring and this race is a good stepping stone for him.

Race 6 is the Group 3 MRC Everest Series Heath Stakes over 1100 metres, my ride here is GYTRASH who is trained by Gordon Richards. This four-year-old gelding by Lope de Vega has had 13 starts for a record of six wins and six placings. I had my first ride on him at the end of last preparation when successful in winning the Listed Creswick Stakes at Flemington over 1200 metres. He’s had one jumpout in Adelaide in preparation for his return to racing and he was dominant in his effort. He runs first up here and profiles well for this race, which will give an indication to show where he figures against the sprinters going forward into the spring. I’m confident that he has the ability to measure up and he will take a lot of beating in today’s race.

Race 7 is the Group 3 Moët & Chandon Cockram Stakes over 1200 metres for mares, my ride here is AMPHITRITE who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This daughter of Sebring is raced by Flying Start Syndications and partners. She is a talented mare who won the Group 1 Thousand Guineas at this course last season. She resumed her last preparation with a dominant effort at Flemington in the Group 3 Vanity over 1400 metres, beating subsequent multiple Group 1 winner, Verry Elleegant. AMPHITRITE has had two jumpouts in preparation for her first up run and I was pleased by the way she felt when I rode her in her most recent jumpout. She has drawn an outside barrier and under the conditions of this race will carry the top weight of 59 kilos. She is horse that will get back and run on and provided the track is racing fairly, I expect she will be closing off strongly over the concluding stages.

Race 8 is the Group 1 W.F.A New Zealand Bloodstock Memsie Stakes over 1400 metres, my ride here is HARTNELL who is trained by James Cummings. This nine-year-old gelding by Authorized is raced by Godolphin. He is a multiple Group 1 winner that has amassed over seven million dollars in prize money and has been racing at the elite level for a long time. From his five starts at the course and distance he hasn’t missed a top three placing. He races here second up following on from his first up effort at the course over 1400 metres and will strip fitter for this. He has drawn an economical barrier and will be one of the main chances in this competitive Group 1 race.

Race 9 is a 1400 metres handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is A SHIN ROOK who is trained by Anthony Freedman. This six-year-old gelding by Heart’s Cry (JPN) is raced by Ozzie Kheir and partners. He is resuming this preparation and has won or placed in half of his runs when racing fresh and has the same record when racing over this distance. The last time I rode him was at the end of his last preparation and if he finds his right form he will make his presence felt.

Sandown Preview

Today I’m riding at Sandown on the Lakeside circuit. The rail is out 4 metres and the track is rated in the good range.

Race 4 is the BM70 The Big Screen Company Hcp over 1500 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is FRAZIL who is trained by James Cummings. This three-year-old filly by Medaglia d’Oro is raced by Godolphin. She has had three life time starts and won at her second outing on soft ground. Her most recent run was at Flemington earlier this month where she contested a 3YO BM70 over 1400 metres, finishing just over two lengths from the winner. She takes on mainly older mares here today with Maozi being the other three-year-old in the field. Frazil will carry the minimum weight, has drawn a favourable barrier draw and has the blinkers applied to her head gear for the first time. If the blinkers help her, it looks like she is a filly that has the ability to take a lot of beating in this.

Race 7 is the BM70 Ladbrokes Park Handicap over 1200 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is SMITTENwho is trained by James Cummings. This three-year-old filly by Lonhro is raced by Godolphin. She’s only had two career starts and I rode her on debut at Geelong where she raced on a heavy 10 and was beaten by less than two lengths, but didn’t appreciate the heavy ground. She took natural improvement into her most recent run where she won her maiden over 1100 metres on soft ground and was dominant in doing so. She is taking on older mares today but has the advantage of carrying the minimum weight. I’m expecting she will have come on again and with confidence and experience from her last outing, she will take a lot of running down.

Race 8 is the BM70 Ladbrokes Cash In Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is REBELLIOUS LORD who is trained by Mark O'Donnell. This six-year-old gelding by Rebel Raider is lightly raced for his age, he has had 17 starts for a record of three wins and three placings. From his five attempts at the distance he has placed twice and even though he has only won one race on a good surface, all of his placings have come from racing on top of the ground. He also has the blinkers applied to his head gear again and has won with this gear change previously. He drops back in distance from the 2000 metres of his most recent run at Flemington and is also dropping back in grade. On his best form he has the ability to make his presence felt. 

Moonee Valley Preview

Today I’m riding at Moonee Valley. The rail is out 4 metres and the track is rated in the soft range. This is the second meeting held on the course in the past four months. There is some rain predicted for later in the afternoon, so it will be interesting to see when and if it arrives and how it affects the racing conditions.

I’m looking forward to today’s race meeting as it’s my first day back riding in the new racing season after taking a very enjoyable holiday with my family.

Race 1 is the BM78 handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is TRISTANO who is trained by Matt Cumani. This six-year-old gelding by Annenkov is raced by O T I Racing and partners. He is lightly raced for a six-year old and he has been very consistent in his career so far, winning on three occasions and placing another six times. He is a horse that races close to the speed and can get keen throughout. This will be my first ride on him and we will start from a very wide barrier. We will need luck from the draw and for him to relax and race kindly for me.

Race 3 is for three-year-old fillies, run under set weights and penalties over 1200 metres, my ride here is ANDRASSY AVENUE who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This daughter of Rubick has had five starts with her only win being at this course over 1000 metres. Her first up run this campaign was at this track over 1000 metres where she finished fifth of eight, and she is stepping up in distance for her second up appearance. She has drawn an outside barrier and I would assume that unless the track walks and races a certain way, that my instructions will be to ride her in such a way as to give her every chance to be finishing off strongly. On her best form she can make her presence felt.

Race 4 is the BM84 Dr Sheahan Plate over 1200 metres for mares, my ride here is FABRIC (NZ) who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This daughter of Ocean Park runs in the colours of Waikato Stud and is raced by Mark Chittick and partners. She’s had nine starts for a record of two wins and four minor placings. I’ve ridden her in both of her wins and at her most recent start, she finished less than 1.5 lengths from the winner at Flemington over 1600 metres. She is dropping back in distance to the 1200 here and comes into this following a freshen up and is seven weeks between runs. She has drawn a low barrier, has the minimum weight of 54 kilos and with luck in running, on her best form, will take a lot of beating and is one of the main chances.

Race 7 is the Listed McMahon's Dairy McKenzie Stakes over 1200 metres for three-year-old colts and geldings, my ride here is EXETER who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This colt by Fastnet Rock races in the colours of the Lechte family. He is resuming this preparation after having three runs as a two-year-old. His first two starts were in black type races at Caulfield before he went to the country and won his maiden against a strong field over 1200 metres. He went nicely in a recent jumpout over the straight course at Flemington in preparation for his return to racing. I’m expecting that he has improved from his two-year-old season and on his best form, he can make his presence felt. This race will provide a good guide on where he fits in and which direction he takes through the spring.

Race 9 is the MSC Signs Handicap over 2040 metres, my ride here is CHAROSSA who is trained by Gordon Richards. This five-year-old gelding by Myboycharlie has had 24 starts for a record of six wins and seven placings. He is in very good form and has won his past three starts and the start before that, he finished second. He raced over the 2000 metres for the first-time last start and he was dominant in his winning effort where he carried 58.5 kilos. He goes up in grade here but drops to the minimum weight of 54 kg today. He comes into this full of confidence and if he brings his recent form to the races again today, he will be the horse to beat.

Caulfield Preview

Today I’m riding at Caulfield. The rail is out 6 metres and the track is rated in the soft range. This is the last city meeting for the racing season and I’m delighted with the result that myself and my team have been able to secure our eighth championship. My team has worked hard and has been focused on this goal for the past few months and I’m really happy with the opportunities that were presented and the results that we achieved. I’m looking forward to taking a short break with my family ahead of the Spring carnival. There are exciting new incentives being offered in Melbourne and Sydney and we continue to target likely carnival horses. I’m still looking to find my elusive Melbourne Cup winner and have been watching the recent racing in Europe for horses that might be making the journey to Australia, as well as horses that have been competing in Australia that have the right profile.

Race 1 is the Steph Hunter VOBIS Gold Ingot over 1400 metres for two-year-old’s, my ride here is SPIRIT MEDIUM who is trained by James Cummings. This race is restricted for horses eligible for VOBIS Gold only. This filly by Helmet has had three race starts finishing third, second and first respectively. I had my first ride on her last start at Bendigo where she was successful over 1300 metres on a soft 5 track. She was in a nice position outside the leader and came off the bridle upon straightening, I was pleased with her effort to the line when I asked her to improve and she won comfortably. She comes into this race three weeks between runs, is stepping up slightly in distance and has drawn a favourable low barrier draw. I rode her in a piece of work at Caulfield on Tuesday morning where she put her head in the air and charged for the first part but when we went a bit quicker, she lowered her head. She was much kinder to ride under raceday conditions than in her gallop and I’m expecting that she will be the same again today. She comes into this race with confidence from her last start win and if she has a smooth run in transit she will take a lot of beating in this.

Race 2 is the Le Pine Funerals Handicap over 1100 metres for three-year-old’s and upwards fillies and mares, my ride here is MISS IANO who is trained by Mark Webb. This five-year-old mare is by Equiano. She has won seven times from her 25 race starts including and the course two starts ago over 1200 metres. She closed off nicely at her most recent start in what was a slowly run race over the 1200. She is dropping back in distance slightly today and has placed once from her three attempts over the 1100. She has drawn an economical barrier in a small field and there looks to be good pressure on paper which will suit her. She will also benefit if there is any rain prior to this race as she has had four starts on heavy ground for two wins and a second placing.

Race 3 is the BM78 Ladbrokes Odds Boost Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is CAMPOBASSO (NZ) who is trained by Robert Hickmott. This four-year-old gelding is by Roc De Cambes. He has had 14 starts for a record of three wins and seven minor placings. He has excellent form on soft and heavy surfaces which includes his three wins on heavy ground and has only missing a top three placing once from 11 attempts on soft and heavy tracks. He will start from a low barrier and is a horse that races close to the speed. He goes up in grade from a BM70 last start but is dropping in weight and will carry only half a kilo above the minimum which will help him. He looks to be a solid horse and if he gets a nice run in transit he will take a lot of catching with the light weight as he has race fitness on his side.

Race 4 is the Danny Barrett VOBIS Gold Stayers over 2400 metres, my ride here is FANCIFUL TOFF who is trained by Ciaron Maher & David Eustace. This race is also restricted to VOBIS Gold horses. This four-year-old gelding is by Toorak Toff. He’s had 14 starts for a record of five wins and five placings and has won two of his last three starts. He is a genuine stayer who is very consistent when racing over this distance range. He pulled up with an issue post-race last start and that has been his only disappointing run this campaign. This is a small, restricted field and on his best form he looks likely to be the only horse that can challenge the top weight, who is favourite for this race. The conditions of this race really favour the top weight as she is 17 rating points higher than my horse yet carries the same weight. My horse has been racing in good form and if he produces another effort consistent with his recent racing, he will be able to challenge the top weight.

Race 5 is the MyPunter.com Handicap over 2400 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is AMERICAN IN PARIS who is trained by Symon Wilde. This gelding by Americain runs in Gerry Ryan’s colours. I have ridden AMERICAN IN PARIS in his past two starts. Two runs ago at Sandown he drew a wide barrier and was ridden conservatively over 2100 metres and finished the race off nicely. Last start at Flemington he finished fourth over 2500 metres in the Winter Championship series final for three-year-old’s and was only beaten by half a length. He is dropping back slightly in distance and drops 1.5 kilos in weight from his most recent start. He has drawn a wide barrier in a smaller field and if we have some luck in running and he continues to hold his form, he will be one of the main chances.

Race 6 is the Jenna Ross VOBIS Gold Reef over 1600 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is HIGH BEAM who is trained by Mathew Ellerton & Simon Zahra. This daughter of So You Think runs in the colours of David Moodie. She’s had 11 starts and has been consistent, winning once and placing on another four occasions. She won her maiden last start on heavy ground so she will come into this race with a good amount of confidence from that win. She has drawn a middle barrier and finds herself in a strong field. I’m hoping the confidence from her last start win will help bring her on for this and she can take advantage of the good prizemoney on offer in this VOBIS race.

Race 7 is the Long Fine Plate over 1200 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is CALZINI who is trained by Bevan Laming. This daughter of Shamus Award has had 12 starts for a record of three wins and four minor placings. She had her first Victorian run last start at the course over 1100 metres at the end of June, finishing in third place and was only half a length from the winner. I rode her in a jumpout before she ran last start and she appreciated the heavy track conditions. If she has come on from last start and improves with the experience of having raced around the Caulfield circuit, she will be one of the main chances.

Race 8 is the Group 3 W.F.A The Big Screen Company Bletchingly Stakes over 1200 metres, my ride here is MISS VIXEN who is trained by Cindy Alderson. This four-year-old mare is by Foxwedge. She has been a model of consistency throughout her career and even though she is not overly big in stature she is big in heart. She has to be ridden a certain way and always needs luck in running. She has drawn an inside barrier and comes into this with confidence from her last start victory in mares’ grade at the course and distance. Because of her racing pattern she always needs races run to suit her, if she gets those conditions and things go her way, she should make her presence felt.

Race 9 is the Catanach’s Jewellers Handicap over 1400, my ride here is SNITZEPEG who is trained by father Allan and brother Jason Williams. This four-year-old gelding by Snitzel is having his first start for the stable and is also racing in my wife’s colours, although she is not in the ownership. I have ridden this horse when he was a three-year-old and won the Listed Gothic Stakes on him at the course and distance, he then went on to compete through the Spring in 2017. Last year he finished second in the Moe Cup to Sixties Groove, who has since won the Group 2 Brisbane Cup. SNITZEPEG races here third up this preparation and is up in grade but drops to the minimum weight of 54 kilos. I rode him in a jumpout on Tuesday morning and liked the feel he gave me. We will need some luck from the barrier and it will be interesting to see what my instructions are pre-race from the draw. If he can reproduce his best form, he will make his presence felt. 

Sandown Preview

Today I’m riding at Sandown. The rail is out 3 metres and the track is rated in the heavy range after heavy rain through the week.

Race 2 is the Ladbrokes Handicap over 1300 metres for two-year-old’s, my ride here is HONOUR ME who is trained by Greg Eurell. This gelding by Husson has jumped out on the synthetic track at Pakenham where he was ridden out strongly and looked plain in his effort. He then had a jumpout on soft to heavy ground at Cranbourne where he performed really well, which gives me confidence going into today’s race. He looks to be well educated and if he performs up to his recent Cranbourne jumpout, he should make his presence felt.

Race 3 is the BM84 Long Fine Plate over 1800 metres, my ride here is CONNERY who is trained by Archie Alexander. This four-year-old gelding by Pierro is raced by Australian Thoroughbred Bloodstock and partners. He is a lightly raced gelding who has a record of 15 starts for four win and five minor placings. He hasn’t raced on heavy ground but from his six starts on soft ground has won once and finished second three times. I won on him at this track three starts ago over 1600 metres and he now steps up in distance to 1800 metres. He has drawn a low barrier and looks well placed on his best form to win this, against a small but competitive field. He also has the advantage of carrying a light weight and is only 1.5 kilos off the minimum.

Race 4 is the BM70 Blue Star Print Handicap over 2400 metres, my ride here is UBIN THUNDERSTRUCK (NZ) who is trained by Scott Cameron. This six-year-old gelding is by Raise the Flag. I rode him on Geelong Cup day two years ago and we were extremely unlucky. He races here fifth up this preparation and is stepping up to a distance that he has winning form at and is undefeated at the course and distance. His three attempts at the distance have seen him win once and place third on another occasion. If he handles the track conditions and has luck from an outside barrier, on his best form he will be one of the main chances.

Race 5 is the BM70 MRC Membership Renewal Handicap over 1400 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is ANALYTICA (NZ) who is trained by Patrick Payne. This gelding by Shocking runs in the colours of Price Bloodstock. He has had six lifetime starts for a record of three wins and a third placing. The third placing came at the course and distance when I had my first ride on him last preparation. My next ride on him was at Flemington in a 3YO handicap over 1700 metres, he had to work extremely hard after being caught wide the whole way and did an amazing job to finish less than 1.5 lengths from the winner in fifth place. He had one more run last preparation before going for a spell. He resumed this campaign at Mildura with a win in BM64 grade over 1200 metres. He drops two kilos in weight from that run here and is stepping up in distance. He comes into this race with confidence from his last start win and is returning to racing against his own age and is the horse to beat. It will be interesting to see what my instructions are as he won his debut run when racing on speed and at his most recent run he didn’t have the early speed and was ridden conservatively and was dominant in his effort to the line. He has a versatile racing pattern which is to his advantage and I’m looking forward to seeing how he presents pre-race.

Race 7 is the BM70 Le Pine Funerals Handicap over 1600 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is CLEVER BLAZE who is trained by Bevan Laming. This five-year-old mare is by Bel Esprit. She had her first run in Melbourne last start where she raced on the synthetic at Pakenham and she didn’t look to enjoy the surface as she took a long time to quicken, but when she got into the home straight she closed off well to finish third. She is stepping up in grade but returns to racing against her own sex. She has drawn a wide barrier but is a horse that can race close to the speed and be effective. After watching her replays, I feel she will enjoy returning to racing on the turf track and on her best form she will be one of the main chances in this strong field.

Race 8 is the BM78 The Big Screen Company Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is SADDLE THE SUN who is trained by Matt Cumani. This five-year-old gelding by Helmet is raced by Katandra Agriculture Pty Ltd. He is extremely lightly raced for a five-year-old having had five starts for a record of three wins and two minor placings. This will be my first ride on him and he races here third up this preparation. His first two runs this campaign were on the Ballarat synthetic track and now he returns to a turf surface. He hasn’t been exposed to racing on soft or heavy ground but he did trial well on a heavy track at Cranbourne prior to his first up run. He looks to be a big strong horse that is versatile in where he settles in running and has been effective racing on the speed controlling the race and when settling off the speed and conserving his energy for a strong finish. If he handles the track and brings his competitive form to this race, he will take a lot of beating. 

Flemington Preview

Today I’m riding at Flemington. The rail is out 4 metres and the track is rated in the soft range.

Race 1 is the K.A. Morrison Handicap over 2000 metres, my ride here is ONE MORE TRY who is trained by Matt Cumani. This four-year-old mare by Dane Shadow is lightly raced and from her 13 starts has a record of five wins and four second placings. I had my first ride on her last start at Caulfield where she finished second over 1800 metres. She is stepping up slightly in distance and stays in the same grade as last start with the minimum weight of 54 kilos. She races here fourth up this preparation at a track that she has been successful at previously and has winning form at her only attempt over the distance. If she has some luck from the wide barrier and maintains her great record at the distance then she will be the horse to beat.

Race 2 is the BM78 Flemington Event Staff Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is SEARCH SQUAD (NZ) who is trained by Doug Harrison. This eight-year-old gelding by Falkirk has had 71 starts for a record of eight wins and 19 minor placings. He has been racing in very consistent form this preparation having won three from his last five starts. He raced last start in BM78 grade at Sandown and put in a great effort to be beaten by an official margin of 0.3 length in what was a slowly run race. His general racing pattern is to be slow out of the barriers, giving the field a head start and he can get a bit keen in the mid stages of his races. Any track downgrade would be to his advantage as he is unbeaten on heavy ground. He is racing in such consistent form and even though he hasn’t won over the Flemington straight course, he has run very well without winning. If the race is run to suit him and he maintains his good form he will take a lot of beating.

Race 3 is the Byerley Handicap over 1800 metres for two-year-old’s, my ride here is VALLAURIS who is trained by James Cummings. This colt by Medaglia d’Oro is raced by Godolphin. He is still a maiden and from his three race starts hasn’t finished further back than fourth placing. I’ve ridden him twice and he has a tendency to be slow out of the barriers and it is hard to take a forward position, which would help him in a race like this today. He started from an inside gate last start and I felt he was reluctant to travel up inside horses as he was intimidated with horses on his outside. He will start from a wider barrier today and the step up in distance should suit him. He meets Huntly Castle, who beat him last start again here and my horse has a weight advantage against him in this handicap. The wide barrier should work in my horses’ favour as he won’t have horses on his outside and if that’s the case, it is possible to turn around the margin from last start and he can be one of the main chances.

Race 4 is the BM90 Harry White Handicap over 2500 metres, my ride here is ORMITO (GER) who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This six-year-old gelding by Mamool is raced by Australian Bloodstock and partners. I’ve ridden him several times in his career and my most recent rides include being beaten by 5.5 lengths in the Group 3 Queen Elizabeth Stakes last Spring and finishing second on him in the 2018 Adelaide Cup. He races here third up this preparation and is stepping up to a distance where he has placed in three of his four attempts and if he finds his best form, he will make his presence felt.

Race 6 is the Murray Cox Handicap over 1600 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is KILLAVALLY (NZ) who is trained by Ciaron Maher & David Eustace. This gelding by Ocean Park has had one start where he was very dominant when winning his maiden on the synthetic track by eight lengths over 1400 metres. I was very impressed when I watched his replay and I’m really looking forward to riding him and seeing how he performs today. He is stepping up in grade and distance but has the advantage of the minimum weight and a favourable barrier draw. If he maintains his form from last start and has take natural improvement from the run he will take a lot of beating in this.

Race 7 is the TAB/ATA Trainers’ Trust Handicap over 1200 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is PINYIN who is trained by Jim Conlan. This daughter of Wanted has had eight starts and hasn’t been out of the top three placings, including two wins. She races here sixth up this preparation and is racing on a seven day back up from last start at Caulfield where she contested the race I won on Gododdin. This will be her first attempt over the straight course and if she handles it and runs up to her consistent form she looks to be one of the main chances in this competitive field.

Race 8 is the VRC Recognition Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is NEW UNIVERSE (NZ) who is trained by Chris Waller. This five-year-old gelding by Darci Brahma is raced by Mr Lai. He is having his first Victorian run this campaign here after doing all of his recent racing in NSW and comes into this sixth up. He has excellent form on soft and heavy tracks and won a BM84 on heavy ground at Ballarat as a younger horse. He has drawn a favourable low barrier draw and is a horse that tends to get back and run on, needing the races to be run at a strong tempo to allow him to finish off. He is dropping back from Listed to handicap grade and will carry 1.5 kilos above the minimum. With luck in running he has the ability to win this.

Race 9 is the BM90 Stable Staff Recognition Handicap over 1000 metres, my ride here is WAGNER who is trained by James Cummings. This three-year-old gelding by Bernardini is raced by Godolphin. I rode him in Group and Listed level three-year-old races in the Spring over 1400 metres. He is now being trained to race as a sprinter and even though he hasn’t raced over this distance, he won two starts ago over 1100 metres. Last start he raced on heavy ground in NSW and he didn’t look comfortable when asked to quicken in the ground and did a good job to finish less than three lengths from the winner. He has winning form on soft ground but doesn’t appreciate heavy ground and is unplaced from his two attempts. This will be his first attempt racing over the straight course and I’ll be mindful of this and help him as much as possible. By this race we will have a good understanding of how the track is racing and if he can produce his best form he can be competitive in this and make his presence felt.

Caulfield Preview

Today I’m riding at Caulfield. The rail is out 3 metres and the track is rated in the soft range. If the predicted rain arrives there is no doubt it will be downgraded to heavy. There are storms forecast today and if there are wind gusts it can change the way races are run and won, so I will have to be mindful of the changing conditions throughout the day.

Race 1 is the Ladbrokes Odds Boost Handicap over 1200 metres for two-year-old’s, my ride here is AVON RIVER who is trained by James Cummings. This daughter of Fastnet Rock is raced by Godolphin. She is still a maiden from her five starts but has placed second twice. There is very good form around her from her Sydney starts and she comes into this second up off the back of a solid effort last start at the course and distance where she closed the race off nicely to be beaten by less than two lengths. I rode her in a jumpout before her first up run in Melbourne but I was unable to ride her on raceday. It will be interesting to see what my instructions are pre-race as she has drawn a wide barrier in a field of 10 runners and her run style is usually to race off the speed. She drops 1.5 kilos in weight here and has the benefit of the first up run under her belt but she will need some luck and the track to be racing evenly and allowing horses to make ground for her to figure in the finish.

Race 3 is the BM78 Ladbrokes Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is CRYPTIC JEWEL (NZ) who is trained by Brent Stanley. This four-year-old mare by Savabeel is building a progressive record and is lightly raced, from her seven starts she has recorded two wins and two placings. Her two wins have been when I have ridden her and I rode her throughout her last preparation and she won her maiden at the course and distance. She resumed this preparation over 1200 metres at Geelong on a heavy 9 track and she was dominant in her effort in F&M BM64 grade. She now steps up in grade and distance and drops 5.5 kilos in weight. She has drawn a nice middle barrier and is a mare that takes some riding to get going and will need luck around this tricky circuit. I am confident in her ability and that she can take the step up in grade and she is aided with the minimum weight today. I’m looking forward to riding her and seeing if she can make it two from two this preparation.

Race 4 is the Ladbrokes Cash Out Handicap over 1400 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is FIGHT who is trained by Nikki Burke. This gelding by Fighting Sun has had four starts for a record of two wins and two placings. He has won his past two starts on heavy and soft ground over 1200 metres and I rode him on both occasions. He is named after a horse that was trained by Nikki’s stepfather and was ridden by my father to three victories. I promised my father that I would go one better and win four races on this horse, so that I would out do him! Fight is stepping up in distance to the 1400 for the first time and the track conditions will be in his favour. Unfortunately, he has drawn a wide barrier and as he is a horse that races close to the speed, if he doesn’t have to work too hard to take up a position and he runs out the distance solidly, he will take a lot of beating.

Race 5 is the Ladbrokes Info Hub Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is ORGANZA who is trained by James Cummings. This four-year-old mare by Street Cry is raced by Godolphin. She races here fourth up and is having her first run in Melbourne. She comes into this have been competing in group and listed races at her past three starts and will carry a kilo above the minimum weight. She has drawn a nice economical barrier and is the horse they all have to beat if she handles today’s conditions.

Race 6 is a three-year-old handicap over 2000 metres, my ride here is DOROZA (NZ) who is trained by Matt Cumani. This colt by Medaglia d’Oro is raced by OTI Racing and partners. He races here fifth up this preparation and is racing consistently this campaign only missing a top three placing once this time in, which was last start at the course and distance on June 1^st. He travelled nicely into the race but at the top of the straight he looked to be pressured from both sides and he didn’t finish the race off as well as he was travelling before that. It was still a credible effort and he was beaten by just over five lengths. He meets a similar type of field again here and carries the minimum weight. I feel the experience of racing at the course and distance last start will hold him in good stead for this assignment and he can make his presence felt. He hasn’t been exposed to heavy ground so that will be an unknown factor should the track be downgraded throughout the day.

Race 7 is the Ladbrokes Back Yourself Handicap over 1200 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is GODODDIN who is trained by James Cummings. This daughter of Exceed And Excel is also raced by Godolphin. She has had only six starts for a record of two wins and one placing. This will be her first run at Caulfield and I will be mindful of that and help her around the circuit. She is a filly that usually races close to the speed and has drawn a nice barrier in this race. She has been placed on soft ground but has no prior form on heavy going. She comes into this race half a kilo off the minimum and will make her own luck by racing close to the speed. If she runs up to her good Sydney form she will be the horse to beat.

Race 8 is the Group 3 Ladbrokes Sir John Monash Stakes over 1100 metres run under WFA conditions, my ride here is BANDIPUR who is now trained by Richard Laming. This four-year-old gelding by Commands has been a model of consistency throughout this preparation and has only finished further back than fourth on one occasion and has won three races. From his six career runs at the distance he has won four times and has only been out of the top two at the course and distance once. He has drawn a slightly wide barrier so will need some luck in running. He is well treated under the WFA conditions of this race as he has a high rating of 101. He has excellent form on soft ground and if he handles the track conditions on the day he will be one of the main chances as he is such an honest horse.

Race 9 is the BM90 Ladbrokes Multiverse Handicap over 1700 metres, my ride here is SHROUDED IN MIST who is trained by Tony McEvoy. This four-year-old mare by Exceed And Excel is raced by the Katelanis family. I’ve ridden her in her last two starts, winning a F&M BM84 two starts ago at Sandown where she was dominant winning on soft ground, and last start at this track over 1600 metres two weeks ago in BM78 grade where she drew a wide barrier and gave the field a head start, but was very good in her effort to finish less than two lengths from the winner. I felt if she had drawn a more favourable barrier she would have won last start. She goes up in grade and drops in weight here and has drawn a favourable low barrier that will give her every opportunity to return to winning form. 

Geelong Preview

Today I’m riding at Geelong. The rail is out 3 metres and the track is rated in the heavy range. As a result of the significant rain over the past few days the track has been rated a heavy 10, which is the slowest possible ground to race on.

Race 1 is the Toddy & Kingy Time-Honoured Shield 2YO Fillies Maiden Plate over 1112 metres, my ride here is SMITTEN who is trained by James Cummings. This daughter of Lonhro is raced by Godolphin. She is making her race day debut here and has had a couple of jumpouts at Flemington in preparation for this assignment. She showed good natural speed in a recent jumpout and was dominant in her effort, where she beat the horse that I rode at Sandown on Wednesday. She must be a big type of filly as she has the barrier extension added to her stall today and she had a barrier attendant near her at Flemington. Hopefully she is on her best behaviour and if she can put it all together and bring her jumpout form to the races, she will take a lot of beating.

Race 3 is the Steamatic Geelong Maiden Plate over 1212 metres, my ride here is CAPTAIN HEDDERWICK who is trained by brother Damien Williams. This three-year-old gelding by Captain Gerrard is raced by Damien’s wife, Michelle. He is making his debut here and I have ridden him on multiple occasions and felt that he is very professional and performed well on rain affected tracks in his recent jumpouts. He has drawn a low barrier draw which will help give him every opportunity and if he runs up to his trial form he will be hard to beat.

Sandown Preview

Today I’m riding at Sandown on the Hillside circuit. The rail is out 12 metres and the track is rated in the soft range.

Race 1 is the Ladbrokes Odds Boost Handicap over 1000 metres for two-year-old’s, my ride here is FUNDRAISER who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This colt by Helmet is raced by Colin and Janice McKenna and partners. He is making his debut here and is the only first starter in this small but competitive field. I have ridden him in a recent jumpout at Flemington in preparation for his debut performance. He looks very similar to his father as he is a flashy chestnut with lots of white markings and has a similar galloping action. He has been stepping slowly from the barriers in his recent jumpouts but musters speed quickly and then gets very competitive. He is a strong horse with good ability and I’m looking forward to seeing how he handles raceday conditions and pressure. If he brings his jumpout form to the races he will be one of the main chances.

Race 2 is the Yulong Handicap over 1400 metres for two-year-old’s, my ride here is ZEE HOARDER who is trained by Cindy Alderson. This gelding by Zebedee has had two starts and I’ve ridden him on both occasions. First up he ran at Caulfield over 1200 metres where after drawing a wide barrier he wanted to hang and was very green and new to it all. It was also hard for horses to make ground on that day and he ran well under those conditions. He dropped back to 1000 metres at his next start at Sale and again drew an outside barrier. He was ridden off the speed and wasn’t able to gain clear room around the bend and in the straight, again running well under the circumstances. The form from that race is strong with horses that finished in front of him winning and running well at their next starts in city grade. He is stepping up in distance to the 1400 metres for the first time and has again drawn a wide barrier, it will be interesting to see what my instructions will be pre-race as if he gets the right run he has the ability to win this.

Race 3 is the BM78 Long Fine Plate over 1600 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is PAINT THE TOWN TWO (NZ) who is trained by Bevan Laming. This four-year-old mare by Darci Brahma runs in the colours of The Oaks Stud. She’s had 17 starts for a record of two wins and eight placings. I’ve had one ride on her three starts ago at this course but over 1800 metres and since then her most recent runs have both been over the 1600. She finished second when racing on heavy ground at the course and distance last start and was 1.25 lengths behind Lucky Wick, who she meets better at the weights in this race for being beaten by her last start. She has drawn a favourable low barrier and there doesn’t look to be too much pressure on paper so she should gain a great run in transit in what will be a steady run race. With the weight drop from her last start and favourable barrier draw this race looks like it will map well for her and she will take a lot of beating.

Race 5 is the BM70 Blue Star Print Handicap over 1800 metres, my ride here is CREEDENCE who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This four-year-old gelding is by Helmet. I rode him twice last preparation, finishing fourth at Flemington before then finishing second at Caulfield over 2000 metres. He races here second up this preparation and one of his two career wins have been when racing second up. He is also stepping up to a distance range that is more to his liking after racing over 1400 first up. If he has some luck in running from a wide barrier he can make his presence felt.

Race 6 is the BM70 Clanbrooke Racing Handicap over 1000 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is MONTENEGRO MAN who is trained by Mark Kavanagh. This gelding by Zoustar has a group of owners that include sports commentator Bruce Mcavaney. MONTENEGRO MAN races second up here and I rode him in his first up run where he ran at the same course and distance on a heavy track, finishing second. He wasn’t concentrating when the gates opened and missed the start, he closed the race off solidly and his effort was pleasing given the circumstances. Provided he has taken natural improvement from his first up run he will take a lot of beating.

Race 7 is the BM78 Le Pine Funerals Handicap over 1000 metres, my ride here is STREET TOUGH who is trained by Scott Brunton. This four-year-old gelding by Tough Speed has had nine starts for a record of four wins and four minor placings, only missing a top three placing once, which was last start when he was having his first run in Victoria and finished fourth at Flemington over 1200 metres. This will be my first ride on him but after watching his replays he looks to be a solid horse that makes his own luck in running. He will also appreciate returning to racing around a bend after running over the straight course last start and will also benefit from dropping back in distance. He has drawn a wide barrier which usually is not a disadvantage on the Hillside course and this looks to be a winnable race for him.

Flemington Preview

Today I’m riding at Flemington where it’s Winter Championship Finals Day. The rail is in the true position after being out 9 metres for the last meeting and the track is rated in the soft range.

Race 2 is the VRC-CRV Cup Tour Trophy over 2000 metres, my ride here is THE STATESMAN (GB) who is trained by Ciaron Maher & David Eustace. This five-year-old gelding by Zoffany is raced by Yu Long. He has winning form at the course and distance and races here second up this preparation, from his three second up attempts he hasn’t missed a top three placing and from his six runs at the distance has a record of three wins and two minor placings. This is his favourite distance range and he meets a small field here where there shouldn’t be too much pressure on-speed. He has drawn a wide barrier and it will be interesting to see what my instructions are pre-race as he has been effective when racing both on and off the speed. He comes into this race carrying the minimum weight of 54 kilos and is one of the main chances.

Race 3 is the Silver Bowl Series Final over 1600 metres for three-year-olds, my ride here is ASGARD MASSIF who is trained by John Sadler. This gelding by Fastnet Rock is raced by Dr Tan. I’ve had one ride on him which was three starts ago at Sandown where he won over 1400 metres. He won again at his next start at the same distance at Caulfield in a three-year-old handicap and at his most recent run he finished second to Buffalo River, who is the favourite for this race. ASGARD MASSIF is stepping up in distance to the 1600 for the second time in his career and he is a keen horse that can get strong in his races. From a wide barrier it is important that I am able to get him across into a good position and make sure that he relaxes and has a smooth run in transit to conserve his energy for the end of the race. He has the pacifiers added to his head gear for the first time and hopefully they will have the desired outcome and help him to settle. If he has a smooth run and the gear change works he will be one of the main chances but we definitely need to turn the tables on Buffalo River from last start.

Race 4 is the Banjo Paterson Series Final over 2600 metres, my ride here is FUTURE SCORE (IRE) who is trained by Matt Cumani. This four-year-old gelding by Cape Cross is raced by OTI Racing and Partners. He has been a model of consistency this preparation and even though he hasn’t been tried at this journey, he will appreciate the step up in distance. He comes into this with confidence from his last start win and is dropping in weight to the minimum of 54 kilos. The main chances in this race are giving him five and six kilos respectively so we have a huge weight advantage. He will start from a wide barrier and I expect he will gain a nice run in transit after looking at the make-up of this race. I’m looking forward to riding him and he is the horse to beat.

Race 5 is the Listed Taj Rossi Series Final over 1600 metres for two-year-olds, my ride here is PANCHO who is trained by Chris Waller. This gelding by Dissident runs in the colours of Laurel Oak Bloodstock. He’s had four career starts and won at first run in Victoria which was two starts ago at Sandown on a heavy track. I rode him last start at this track over 1400 metres and after drawing the widest barrier he was ridden back in the field and closed off well to finish less than three lengths from the winner. He has drawn a more favourable barrier today and it looks like the step up in distance will suit him. He is a laid-back and relaxed horse and the benefit of riding him last start will aid my decision making on him today. This is a competitive race but I am confident after his last start effort he can be one of the main contenders.

Race 6 is The Mahogany Challenge Final over 2500 metres for three-year-olds, my ride here is AMERICAN IN PARIS who is trained by Symon Wilde. This gelding by Americain is raced by Gerry Ryan and partners. He is a consistent stayer that is dual placed in Listed level over 2400 and 2800 metres respectively from earlier in his preparation. I had my first ride on him last start when racing over 2100, he was ridden quietly from the wide barrier and closed the race of nicely in what was a solid effort. He drops a kilo in weight, has drawn a favourable barrier and the step back up in distance will suit him. He is a very fit horse who is deep into his racing preparation and can be very competitive in this.

Race 7 is the Listed All Victorian Sprint Series Final over 1200 metres, my ride here is INVINCIBLE AL who is trained by Patrick Payne. This five-year-old gelding by I Am Invincible is raced by Prime Thoroughbreds and partners. He is a horse with very good ability but he needs to be ridden in a certain way to be effective. He is a small in stature but can be aggressive and likes to get his races over and done with a little bit too quickly. He steps up in distance and carries the minimum weight of 54 kilos. If I can switch him off in the early stages I know I will have a horse with an impressive amount of acceleration at the end of the race. My job on him is to get him into a nice rhythm and to relax so he can finish off and if that happens, he can win this.

Race 8 is the Listed VRC-CRV Winter Championship Series Final over 1600 metres, my ride here is WAGING WAR who is trained by Leon Macdonald & Andrew Gluyas. This five-year-old gelding by Rebel Raider runs in the Australian flag colours of Harry Perks. He has had seven runs at this distance, only missing a top two placing twice and has good form when racing on a soft track. He has unfortunately drawn a wide barrier and is a horse that is keen and aggressive in his races. I will need him to work with me so he can relax and hopefully we have luck from the barrier draw. I’ve ridden him once before where he was very aggressive in a slowly run race at Caulfield where he finished not far behind Widgee Turf. Waging War comes into this with the right form lines and drops 1.5 kilos in weight from his last start where he was narrowly beaten at Sandown in the lead up to this. If we have some luck in running he has the ability and form to win this.

Race 9 is the Rivette Series Final over 1600 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is SURE KNEE who is trained by Chris Waller. This daughter of Snitzel runs in the cerise colours of Ingham Racing. From her 12 career starts she has a record of four wins and two second placings. I had my first ride on her last start at the course and distance where she took on the boys and was dominant in her winning effort. She carried 60 kilos last start and has the same weight allocated today. She raced last start with the ear-muffs removed and she was able to utilise her low barrier draw and produced a strong finish. If she brings that form to the races today she will be winning again.

Bendigo Preview

Today I’m riding at Bendigo. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated in the soft range.

Race 1 is the Bolton’s Two-Years-Old Maiden Plate over 1300 metres, my ride here is SPIRIT MEDIUM who is trained by James Cummings. This daughter of Helmet is raced by Godolphin. She’s had two starts, finishing third on debut over 1200 metres at Sandown on the Lakeside circuit and at her next start she stepped up to 1300 metres in the Elvstroem Classic at Swan Hill and finished second, less than 1.5 lengths from the winner on soft ground. She comes into this with fitness on her side and is racing over the same distance as last start. She usually races close to the speed making her own luck and she will take a lot of beating in this.

Race 2 is The Big Screen Company Maiden Plate over 1400 metres, my ride here is JAHBATH (NZ) who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This two-year-old gelding by Foxwedge is raced by Shadwell Stud. He made his debut in Sydney where he finished last in January of this year and was subsequently sent for a spell. He resumed racing in June where I rode him at Mornington and it was his first time racing this way of going. The track conditions were heavy, which he handled, and he was ridden back in the field from a wide barrier draw. He over-raced and did a few things wrong wanting to hang out, but I felt he closed the race off nicely to finish less than three lengths from the winner. He has drawn more favourably today and will have the winkers removed from his head gear. If he has improved with the experience from last start I feel he will be very competitive.

Race 3 is the Hygain Maiden Plate over 1400 metres, my ride here is TORBA who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This is the second division of the previous race for horses that are two-years old and upwards. TORBA is a two-year-old gelding by Turffontein. He had one start earlier in the year where he finished last and was sent for a spell after that. He resumes this preparation as a gelding and comes into this following on from a synthetic trial win at Cranbourne. The soft ground is an unknown for him and he will start from a wide barrier and will need a lot of favours from there in this big field.

Race 4 is Maiden Plate over 1600 metres for horses that are 2 years old and upwards, my ride here is VALLAURIS who is trained by James Cummings. This colt by Medaglia d’Oro is also raced by Godolphin. He is having his third lifetime start today and I rode him when he made his debut at Cranbourne over 1200 metres. He stepped slowly and closed the race off nicely to finish third, being beaten less than two lengths. He stepped up to 1400 metres at his next start at Echuca and again was slow out of the barriers from a wide draw. He worked into the race well and was solid in his effort to finish third. He has drawn a more favourable low barrier today and if I can get him to jump and utilise that draw it will be a big advantage. The step up in distance looks like it will suit him and he is one of the main chances.

Sandown Preview

Today I’m riding at Sandown on the Lakeside circuit. The rail is out 8 metres and the track is rated in the soft range. I’m looking forward to walking the track to see how it may race throughout the day, usually on the Lakeside circuit when the rail is closer to the true position it can be difficult for horses racing off-speed to make ground, so it will be interesting to see how it plays in the 8-metre position.

Race 1 is the Ladbrokes Odds Boost Handicap over 1200 metres for two-year-old fillies, my ride here is HAFAAWA who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This daughter of Redoute’s Choice is raced by Shadwell Stud. She has had two race starts, making her debut in Sydney over 1100 metres on soft ground where she finished second to Pin Sec, who went on to win the Group 3 Black Opal in Canberra. HAFAAWA then had seven weeks between runs and had her second up run at this course on the Hillside track over 1300 metres, finishing second to Really Discreet. The horse that finished third, La Tene, went on to win her next two starts including the Group 2 VRC Sires Produce Stakes at Flemington, so the form around her is very strong. She races first up here and I have ridden her in a recent jumpout in preparation for her return to racing, I was impressed with her performance and I’m looking forward to riding her under raceday conditions. If she races up to her recent jumpout and form from last preparation she is the horse to beat.

Race 2 is the BM64 Yulong Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is FIGHT who is trained by Nikki Burke. This three-year-old gelding by Fighting Sun races in the colours of Nikki’s stepfather and he is named after a horse that Barry trained and my father, Allan Williams won three races on, we have a family joke going that I have to win four races on him to beat my fathers record. Fight has had three starts with all of those being on soft or heavy ground and he hasn’t missed a top three placing in his career so far. He won his last start at the Mornington metropolitan meeting where he was racing on a seven day back up. He has drawn a wide barrier and usually races close to the speed, if he doesn’t have to do too much work from the barrier he will take a lot of beating in this grade.

Race 5 is a BM70 over 1200 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is KINKY BOOM who is trained by Tony McEvoy. This three-year-old filly by Spirit of Boom is raced by Eureka Stud and partners. I rode her in her debut run as a two-year-old where she was very impressive when winning at Caulfield and also in her next start where she ran in the Group 1 Blue Diamond Stakes. She was then spelled and resumed her next preparation at this course over 1000 metres, finishing third in a solid effort. She then finished third at Moonee Valley over 1200 metres in what is a strong form race. I then returned to riding her in her third run of last preparation where she stepped up in distance to 1500 metres and was very disappointing on that day. She had one more run to round out that preparation before having a break from training. The stable has notified that she has had throat surgery during her spell and she runs first up here with the blinkers off and tounge tie on. If she reproduces her debut performance she has the ability to beat these.

Race 6 is the BM78 Le Pine Funerals Handicap over 1300 metres, my ride here is SEARCH SQUAD who is trained by Doug Harrison. This eight-year-old gelding by Falkirk is having his 71^strace start, he has won on eight occasions with a further 18 minor placings. My last three rides on him have all been wins which have come on rain affected ground and two of those have been at the same distance as this race. He won last start on the Hillside track which would have been more challenging for him as he is always slow out and giving his rivals a head start. He races up in grade here and drops 1.5 kilos in weight from his recent win and is a horse in fantastic form. He is racing on a seven day turn around and comes into this race full of confidence. He will be giving the leaders a head-start but I am confident he can win this and make it three wins in a row, which is a testament to his trainer Doug Harrison and his team.

Race 7 is the BM64 The Big Screen Company Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is FERGUS MAGERGUS who is trained by Michael Jones. This four-year-old gelding by Lonhro has had 11 starts for a record of two wins and four placings. He is a consistent galloper who has raced well on good and soft ground and even though he hasn’t won over the distance from his two attempts, he has run extremely well. Two starts ago he ran at Flemington in BM78 grade and finished less than two lengths from the winner. He brings the right form lines to this race and if we have luck in running from the wide barrier draw he will take a lot of beating in this strong BM64 race.

Race 8 is the BM78 Blue Star Print Handicap over 2100 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is RELIABELLE who is trained by Doug Harrison. This mare by Reliable Man has had 17 starts for a record of two wins and two placings. She is stepping back up in grade after racing in a BM64 race last start and two starts ago she competed at the course and distance in the same level as this race, where she finished fourth on heavy ground. On that day she met the favourite of this race Cedar Grande 8 kilos better at the weights with Cedar Grande beating my horse. She meets the same horse again here but worse at the weights and my horse will have to improve on her recent form to turn the tables on her.

Caulfield Preview

Today I’m riding at Caulfield. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated in the soft range and with rain forecast throughout the day, it will be interesting to see how much we get and how it impacts the track.

Race 1 is the Ladbrokes Odds Boost Hcp over 1200 metres for two-year-old’s, my ride here is KING OF HASTINGS who is trained by Anthony Freedman. This gelding by Ilovethiscity has only had two career starts and runs third up here. He won on debut at Cranbourne when racing on a good surface over 1000 metres. He then stepped up to 1200 metres on soft ground at Sandown where he finished a narrow second after racing on-speed and making all the running. He has started from low barrier draws in both of his runs to date but unfortunately today we have drawn out wide. It will be interesting to see what my instructions pre-race will be and how the track walks. He looks to be a promising horse on his recent form and if we have some luck in running he looks to be one of the main chances.

Race 2 is the BM78 Ladbrokes Multiverse Hcp over 1600 metres, my ride here is SHROUDED IN MIST who is trained by Tony McEvoy. This four-year-old mare by Exceed And Excel is raced by the Katelanis family. I had my first race ride on her last start when successful at Sandown in F+M BM84 grade over 1600 metres on soft ground. She had the blinkers removed for that run and she raced a lot kinder for me. She started from a wide barrier last start and has again drawn very wide in this race. She comes into this with confidence from her last start win and goes up 2.5 kilos in weight from that run. She has shown that she handles the track conditions and if we have luck from the draw and she runs up to her best form taking on the boys, she will take a lot of beating.

Race 4 is the MRC Membership Renewal Hcp over 1100 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is GRACEFUL STORM who is trained by John Moloney. This daughter of Hinchinbrook started her career off in good style winning her first two starts and three starts ago she won her third race. She is a horse that needs luck in running as she usually races off the speed. This will be my first race ride on her and my team targeted her for this race as she profiles very well. She has drawn a nice middle barrier draw and comes into this four weeks between runs. There looks to be a good amount of pressure on paper and if she has clear running over the concluding stages she has the ability and form to win this.

Race 5 is the BM84 Clanbrooke Racing Handicap over 1200 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is HIGHLAND BEAT who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This five-year-old gelding is by Exceed And Excel. He is a very consistent horse who has a record of five wins and 13 placings from his 43 starts. He also races really well on rain affected ground so that will be in our favour if the rain arrives throughout the afternoon. He won impressively last start at Geelong on a heavy 10 and drops 1.5 kilos in weight from that effort. This is a very competitive field but he has drawn a low barrier where he should get every possible chance and he comes into this with confidence from his last start win and will take a lot of beating.

Race 7 is the Ladbrokes Back Yourself Hcp over 1800 metres, my ride here is ONE MORE TRY who is trained by Matt Cumani. This four-year-old mare is by Dane Shadow. Due to the scratching’s she meets a small field of only six other runners. She is a consistent race mare who won at Flemington over the Carnival on heavy ground, so we know she will handle a track downgrade in the forecast rain arrives. She races here third up this preparation and comes into this with the right form lines and is the horse to beat on the minimum weight.

Race 8 is the BM90 Handicap over 1200 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is FRAGONARD who is trained by James Cummings. This five-year-old mare by New Approach is raced by Godolphin. I’ve been successful on her in the past at Moonee Valley over the same distance and I also finished second on her at the course throughout the Carnival last year. She races here third up this preparation after having her first two runs in Sydney. Her chances will be further enhanced if the track is downgraded and it rains as she has good form on heavy ground, winning one of her two starts in dominant fashion. Unfortunately, she has drawn an outside barrier but if she runs up to her best form and has some luck in running, she will take a lot of beating.

Race 9 is the BM84 Catanach's Jewellers Hcp over 1400 metres, my ride here is INTO RIO (NZ) who is trained by Mathew Ellerton & Simon Zahra. This four-year-old gelding is by Zacinto. He races here second up this preparation and is coming off a dominant win at Seymour first up where he won on soft ground. He is stepping up in grade, drops 5 kilos in weight and is racing at the same distance. If the race is run to suit him and the track is allowing horse to make ground I expect him to be finishing off strongly from back in the field. 

Geelong Preview

Today I’m riding at Geelong. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated in the heavy range. The rail returns to the true position after being out 9 metres last time with the majority of the fields heading to the outside fence looking for firmer ground.

Race 5 is the LPA lighting Fillies and Mares BM64 Handicap over 1200 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is CRYPTIC JEWEL (NZ) who is trained by Brent Stanley. This daughter of Savabeel has a record of six starts for a win and two placings. I rode her in her three runs last preparation, first up over the same distance of this race where she closed off nicely for fourth at Moonee Valley, she then won her maiden over 1400 metres at Caulfield and was stepped up in distance to 1500 metres at her next run, finishing second by a nose in F+M BM64 grade at Sandown in January. She was then spelled and resumes first up here. I’m looking forward to seeing her pre-race and the improvement she has taken during her break from training. She has only been on heavy ground once and even though she was unplaced, she ran very well and showed that she does handle the track conditions. If she is forward enough and resumes in the same or better form than last campaign she will take a lot of beating in this.

Sandown Preview

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

Race 1 is the Ladbrokes Odds Boost Handicap over 1000 metres for two-year-old’s, my ride here is SUKOSHI who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This filly by Magnus has had one start where she was successful when racing on soft ground at Sale. She has drawn an inside barrier and with the benefit and experience of a run under her belt I feel she will take a lot of beating in this. She isn’t a big horse in stature but has got a strong will to win.

Race 2 is the BM70 Yulong Handicap over 1000 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is MONTENEGRO MAN who is trained by Mark Kavanagh. This gelding by Zoustar has a group of owners that includes the famous sports commentator, Bruce Mcavaney. MONTENEGRO MAN has had six starts for a record of four placings including one win. He runs first up here and his only win was in his debut run over the same distance at Tatura. I rode him at this course on the Lakeside track over 1200 metres earlier this year and finished third, he had one more run where he stepped up to 1400 metres at Caulfield before going for a spell. I have ridden him in a recent jumpout in preparation for his return to racing and liked the feel he gave me. I’m looking forward to riding him as he looks well placed in this race. He has good form over the distance and when racing fresh and provided he handles the track conditions, he will definitely make his presence felt.

Race 3 is the BM78 Long Fine Plate over 1800 metres, my ride here is SNIPFIT who is trained by Ken Keys. This five-year-old gelding is by Snippetson. He races here third up this preparation and is stepping up to his preferred distance range. From his four attempts over the distance he has been placed twice and from his three attempts at the track and distance has also placed twice. He is a horse that races on-speed and if he finds his best form and has an easy time in front, will take a lot of running down.

Race 5 is the BM70 MRC Membership Renewal Handicap over 1000 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is SIMPLY DREAMING who is trained by Nikki Burke. This four-year-old mare is by Denman. I rode her in her debut run where she finished second at Pakenham in March last year and have ridden her recently in an official trial on the synthetic track in preparation for her return to racing, she trialled nicely and went on to win her heat. I feel she will appreciate returning to the turf surface to race on and even though she hasn’t been exposed to a heavy track, she hasn’t missed a top three placing from her three attempts on soft ground. There looks to be a lot of speed on paper in this race but I expect her to be closing off strongly over the concluding stages.

Race 6 is the BM84 Le Pine Funerals Handicap over 1000 metres, my ride here is PREZADO who is trained by Mathew Ellerton & Simon Zahra. This four-year-old gelding is also by Denman. I’ve had one ride on him which was at Pakenham in December 2018, we won the race and it’s interesting to note that he hasn’t won another race since that day. He was racing on a seven day back up when we won at Pakenham and today he is racing on a four-day turnaround from his last start, which was at Flemington on Saturday. He has been placed on soft ground previously and that exposure will help him with today’s track conditions. He is a head-strong horse and if I can get him to race kindly for me and he finds his best form and handles the quick back up, he is the horse they will all have to beat.

Race 7 is the BM70 The Big Screen Company Handicap over 1300 metres, my ride here is SEARCH SQUAD (NZ) who is trained by Doug Harrison. This eight-year-old gelding by Falkirk is having his 70^th race start today. From his 69 starts to date he has recorded seven wins and 18 placings. He has been very consistent throughout his career and is racing in great form of late. I’ve ridden him a lot throughout his career and my last two rides on him have both been wins. We won at the course and distance two starts ago and at his most recent run at Mornington we won on a heavy 9 over 1200 metres. He is undefeated from his two runs on heavy ground. He is a horse that is fairly unusual and is determined both physically and mentally with how he likes to run his races, but we seem to get on well on raceday. If the track is racing evenly and he maintains his recent good form, he can win again in this grade.

Race 8 is the BM70 Clanbrooke Racing Handicap over 1400 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is CURIOUS HEART who is trained by Doug Harrison. This daughter of Kuroshio has had seven starts, placing in four of those including one win. Her only win came when she raced over this distance on soft ground at Cranbourne. I had my first ride on her when she resumed this preparation at this course on the Lakeside circuit on heavy ground. I felt there was a lot of merit in that run and she would improve dramatically in fitness leading into her second up run. She is stepping up to the distance that she won her maiden over, has drawn a low barrier and will be racing on her preferred track conditions. She also drops three kilos in weight from her first up run to carry 56 kilos and if she has taken the natural improvement that I expect to see from her, she will take a lot of running down.

Flemington Preview

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

Race 1 is the Gippsland Region Handicap over 1400 metres for two-year-old’s, my ride here is PANCHO who is trained by Chris Waller. This gelding by Dissident runs in the colours of Laurel Oak Bloodstock. He’s had three lifetime starts with two of those being this preparation. He had his first run in Melbourne last start at Sandown on heavy ground, winning over 1400 metres. Most of the horses in this field will be stepping up to the 1400 for the first time, so my horse has an advantage of winning form over the distance. We will need a lot of luck from a wide barrier but I expect if he has some luck to be one of the main chances.

Race 2 is the BM90 he Murray Region Handicap over 1400 metres for mares, my ride here is FLYING KRUPT who is trained by Phillip Stokes. This four-year-old daughter of Krupt has had 18 starts for a record of five wins and seven placings. I’ve ridden her once under race conditions, winning on her at Caulfield over the same distance as this race. She is a very fit mare who is deep into her preparation and is dropping in weight from her last start at Flemington, but is up in class. If the track is racing fairly, as it looks like she will settle off the speed from her barrier draw, then I expect her to take a lot of beating. She will just need a smooth run in transit where she can relax, so hopefully there is a good amount of speed in the race, the small field could work against us as there is only two horses looking like they will push forward, but I am confident in her ability if the track and race is run to suit her.

Race 3 is the Grampians Region Handicap over 1100 metres, my ride here is SHE KNOWS who is trained by Danny Williams. This New South Wales, four-year-old mare by Denman runs in the colours of Eric Lucas. She has been racing in consistent form without winning and it’s been almost a year to the day since she won her last race. She is a filly that my team targeted to come to Melbourne for the three-year-old series 12 months ago. She drops back in grade here as she has been competing in stakes and group races in Sydney. She is adaptable to all conditions and racing surfaces and I expect her to make her presence felt.

Race 4 is the Great Ocean Road Handicap over 2520 metres, my ride here is LAMBORGHINI (NZ) who is trained by Patrick Payne. This eight-year-old gelding by Shinko King races here third-up this preparation and is stepping up in distance from his most recent start at Sandown seven days ago. This is a small field that has been depleted by scratching’s. He is a horse that tends to get back and run-on in his races and there doesn’t look to be much pressure on paper. He races here on the minimum weight, will appreciate the step up in distance and can definitely be very competitive in this.

Race 6 is the BM90 David Bourke Provincial Plate over 1600 metres, my ride here is CONNERY who is trained by Archie Alexander. This is a special conditions race, with runners having to have had three starts in the last 12 months in the country area to be eligible. This four-year-old gelding by Pierro is raced by Australian Thoroughbred Bloodstock and partners. He is now fourth up this preparation and after winning his first two runs this campaign was defeated at his most recent run in the Swan Hill Cup. He finished 1.6 lengths from the winner in the Cup and meets three of the same hoses again in this field, meeting two of them better at the weights. I rode him two starts ago where he was dominant in winning a BM84 at Sandown over 1600 metres and I’m looking forward to riding him again today. He has drawn a low barrier and is a horse that tends to get back in his races, so hopefully the track is racing evenly and if the race is run to suit him, I expect him to be the horse to beat.

Race 7 is the Listed A.R. Creswick Stakes over 1200 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is GYTRASH who is trained by Gordon Richards. This gelding by Lope de Vega has had 12 starts for a record of five wins and six placings, only missing a top three placing once and that was when he contested the Group 1 Goodwood. He is a very consistent horse that has been racing in great form and will carry the top weight of 59 kilos in this. He meets two of his rivals that be beat last start at the same course over 1000 metres again here, meeting them 1.5 and 3 kilos better at the weights. He is such a consistent horse and I take confidence from watching his replay from last start where he looked a bit lost racing over the straight course for the first time and with that experience and confidence under his belt, he is one of the main chances in this highly competitive Winter Stakes race.

Race 8 is the Macedon and Goldfields Handicap over 1600 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is SURE KNEE who is trained by Chris Waller. This daughter of Snitzel runs in the colours of Ingham Racing. After winning her first-up run this preparation in Sydney she was transferred to Victoria and even though she hasn’t won since then, she has finished a narrow second on two occasions and has been racing consistently. She will start from a favourable barrier draw and will race with the ear muffs being removed from her head gear. If we can utilise the favourable draw and she races well for me with the gear change, she will be winning this as she has a good amount of ability.

Race 9 is the Brian Beattie Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is FEDERAL who is trained by James Cummings. This seven-year-old gelding by Medaglia d’Oro is raced by Godolphin. He hadn’t been seen on the track for almost 10 months when he resumed at Caulfield in September 2018 and finished just over two lengths behind Cliff’s Edge. He then had another long break from training and commenced this preparation at Flemington on June 8^thover 1400 metres where he was impressive, finished second by half a length in a similar type of field. He has drawn a more favourable barrier today and goes up two kilos in weight from his last start. He meets the winner of that race again here and is 1 kilo better off in the weights for being beaten by him last start. If he runs up to his first up run and produces the same effort as last start, then he can turn the tables and win this. 

Sandown Preview

Today I’m riding at Sandown on the Hillside circuit. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated in the heavy range.

Race 1 is the Yulong Handicap over 1000 metres for two-year-old fillies, my ride here is EXCUSED who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This daughter of Medaglia d’Oro is raced by Darren Thomas and Colin and Janice McKenna. She has had an official trial at Werribee and a jumpout at Flemington in preparation for her debut run today. I rode her in her most recent jumpout and liked the way she performed on the soft ground, she also had a great attitude and gave me a nice feel. If she brings that form to the races today she will take a lot of beating. She has drawn a wide barrier but she should be good enough to overcome that.

Race 2 is the Long Fine Plate over 2400 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is SKYWAY STAR who is trained by Symon Wilde. This filly by Americain has had 11 starts for a record of one win and five placings. I rode her when she won her maiden on soft ground at Ballarat earlier this year. Two starts ago she finished third in the Group 3 South Australian Fillies Classic over 2500 metres. I rode her again last start at Caulfield where she dropped back in distance to 2000 metres, she was held up on the inside with limited room and was beaten by 8.4 lengths. If she can reproduce her best form she will be hard to beat in this.

Race 3 is the BM78 Blue Star Print Handicap over 2400 metres, my ride here is JAKE’S HILL (GB) who is trained by Chris Waller. This five-year-old gelding by Mount Nelson (GB) started his career racing in England before being imported to Australia. He has had 18 starts for a record of five placings including one win. He has drawn an economical, low barrier draw and is only 1.5 kilos off the minimum weight. Given he should gain a smooth run in transit from the draw and has been tested on rain affected track conditions, he can make his presence felt in this as he is a fit horse who is deep into his preparation.

Race 5 is the BM64 Le Pine Funerals Handicap over 1800 metres, my ride here is TUFF BICKIE who is trained by Ken Keys. I’ve ridden this six-year-old gelding by Reward for Effort once last preparation at this course over an extended distance, where he finished third. He races here second up, will start from a middle barrier and will appreciate the step up in distance from his most recent start. He is a big horse who will be able to carry the 61 kilos with no problems and it’s interesting to note that the minimum weight that will be carried in this race is 57.5 kilos, so the weight spread is not that great. He is a consistent horse when racing second up and from his five attempts has recorded a win and two placings.

Race 6 is the BM70 Ladbrokes Back Yourself Handicap over 1000 metres for three-year-old fillies, my ride here is SWEET JAZZ who is trained by Cindy Alderson. This daughter of Street Boss has had only two lifetime starts and is racing first up this preparation. She made a winning debut at Stony Creek over 1100 metres and at her next start finished second at Flemington in 3F BM70 grade before having a break from training. I rode her in a recent jumpout at Cranbourne on heavy ground in preparation for her return to racing and she gave me a really good feel and felt like she had plenty to offer and handled the track conditions well. If she runs up to that jumpout she will be winning this. There used to be a bit of a rule when I was an apprentice that suggested if a horse could handle Stony Creek, they would be well suited to Sandown, so hopefully that statement rings true today.

Race 7 is the BM70 Krudler Areas Thanks Beamer Handicap over 1300 metres for mares, my ride here is VITANI who is trained by Wendy Kelly. This four-year-old mare by Animal Kingdom is raced by Kevin Payne and partners. I won her maiden on her at this venue on the Lakeside circuit last year. She races first up here and having ridden her in trials prior to her first start, I have always felt that she would be superior on heavy ground. From her two attempts when racing fresh she has placed twice and her two attempts over this distance have seen her produce two wins. She will start from a favourable barrier draw and I’m really looking forward to her showing everyone just how good she is on rain affected tracks.

Race 8 is the BM78 Ladbrokes Odds Boost Handicap over 1400 metres, my ride here is EVIL CRY who is trained by Robbie Laing. This four-year-old entire by Street Cry races in the Montague Jazz Apple colours. He’s had 21 starts for a record of three wins and six minor placings. I rode him when he was a three-year-old and again at the end of his last campaign. This preparation has been his most consistent and he races here fifth up, so he will be extremely fit. He has been racing very well on soft ground and he drops 7 kilos from his last run to the minimum weight here. He has drawn a favourable barrier draw and looks the horse to beat.

Sandown Preview

Today I’m riding at Sandown on the Lakeside circuit. The rail is out 5 metres and the track is rated in the soft range. Unfortunately, my rides for the day have been depleted due to scratching’s and I’m left with four rides on the card.

Race 2 is the BM84 Ladbrokes Cash In Handicap over 1600 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is SHROUDED IN MIST who is trained by Tony McEvoy. This four-year-old daughter of Exceed And Excel is raced by the Katelanis family. She is lightly raced having had only 14 starts for a record of three wins and two placings. She races here fifth up this preparation and has winning form on soft ground and raced well on heavy ground at her only attempt, finishing fourth last start at the course over 1400 metres. She has a very good record at the distance with two wins and a second placing from her four attempts. She will also have the blinkers removed from her head gear which will help her as she has been a bit aggressive in her recent races. She usually races on-speed and will need some luck from a wide barrier draw. If she races kindly for me and is able to relax and conserve her energy with the blinkers off, she will be one of the main chances as she has a light weight and has been racing very consistently.

Race 4 is the Ladbrokes Cash Out Handicap over 1200 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is MORRISSY who is trained by Leon & Troy Corstens. This colt by Snitzel has had six starts and has only missed a top three placing on two occasions, with one of those being last start where he raced over the straight course at Flemington. He returns to racing around a bend here and was impressive when winning two starts ago at Caulfield. This will be his first time racing at Sandown and he will have the benefit of an inside barrier to help him, as he is a horse that races close to the speed. This will also be his first time being exposed to a surface that is rain affected. Provided he gains a nice run in transit and he handles the ground, he will take a lot of running down.

Race 5 is the Ladbrokes Info Hub Handicap over 2100 metres, my ride here is THUNDER CLOUD who is trained by Ciaron Maher & David Eustace. This five-year-old gelding by Manhattan Rain runs in Manfred Krauser’s colours. I’ve ridden him in his last two starts, finishing second in Adelaide two runs ago on soft ground and last start he competed at the course and distance where he was unplaced. He had to contend with a wide barrier draw on that occasion and was ridden off the speed and carried 60 kilos. He goes up in grade here, drops to the minimum weight and has drawn a favourable low barrier. The top weight was very impressive last start but he is giving us weight. The imported BEAU BALMAIN was also impressive last start where he was ridden off the speed and was one of only a few horses to make ground on the day. If my horse can find his best form he will be very competitive.

Race 6 is the Ladbrokes $101 Odds Handicap over 2100 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is AMERICAN IN PARIS who is trained by Symon Wilde. This gelding by Americain runs in the colours of Limerick Lane. He competed in Listed grade over the extended staying distances up to 2800 metres earlier in his preparation and in his most recent run at Caulfield finished fourth over 2000 metres. He meets the winner of that race again here with DOGMATIC going up 5 kilos in weight from that day. AMERICAN IN PARIS should be suited by the soft track conditions as he raced last start on a soft 6. We will need some luck in running from a wide barrier but he is a horse that tends to settle back in his races anyway. If the track is racing evenly and allowing horses to close off from back in the field, I expect him to be hard to beat.

Sale Preview

Today I’m riding at Sale. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated in the soft range. There is heavy rain forecast throughout the afternoon so it will be interesting to see if and when it arrives and how the track plays.

Race 1 is the John Allman 2YO Maiden Plate over 1000 metres, my ride here is ZEE HOARDER who is trained by Cindy Alderson. I rode this gelding by Zebedee in his debut run at Caulfield. He started from a wide barrier, ending up back in the field and he was very new to it all and I thought he would take a good amount of benefit from the run as he wanted to hang out, away from the horses inside of him. Looking back on the pattern of racing for the day it didn’t favour horses that had to come from back and wide in the field, so his effort was much better than it looks on paper. I have ridden him in trackwork and a jumpout prior to his first up run and liked the feel he gave me. Provided he has come on from his debut run taking natural improvement and he handles the day well, he can make his presence felt.

Race 2 is Max Blakiston Maiden Plate over 1717 metres, my ride here is LAGE (NZ) who is trained by Danny O'Brien. This three-year-old daughter of Savabeel runs in the Waikato Stud colours. She had four starts last preparation where she stepped up in distance to 2200 metres and runs here after a freshen up, dropping back in distance. She will need luck in running from an outside barrier and it will be interesting to see how she presents in the yard pre-race and if she has taken any improvement from her first campaign.

Race 3 is Peter Gray 3YO Fillies BM64 Handicap over 1600 metres, my ride here is WILD BREEZE who is trained by Archie Alexander. This daughter of Toorak Toff is raced by Rosemont Stud. I had my first ride on her last start at Cranbourne winning her maiden over 1600 metres. She is lightly raced having had only five starts and ran well when she was exposed to soft ground in her debut run. She comes into this race with confidence from her last start win and in this small but competitive field will be one of the main chances.

Race 5 is Thelma Coster F&M BM70 Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is OUR VOLANTIS (NZ) who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This four-year-old mare by Redwood is having her first start in Australia and raced in New Zealand as Volantis for her owner Gerry Harvey. She has had five starts across the ditch and won her maiden on soft ground over 2000 metres in December before having a break from training and being transferred to Australia. She has had a recent official trial at Pakenham where she was ridden on-speed and won her heat over 1000 metres. Even though her maiden win was over 2000 metres, I expect she can make her presence felt over the shorter distance today as she will be a fresh horse racing first up. 

Mornington Preview

Today I’m riding at Mornington on the Queen’s Birthday long weekend. The rail is in the true position and the track is rated in the heavy range with rain forecast throughout the day. This raceday is a metropolitan meeting and counts towards the premiership.

Race 1 is the Mornington Nissan Handicap over 1000 metres for two-year-old’s, my ride here is ARCHERY BUTTS who is trained by James Cummings. This colt by Shooting to Win is raced by Godolphin. This will be his second race start, he made his debut at Flemington where he finished behind Sebrakate and the horse that finished second, St Edward's Crown won on Saturday at Flemington. He comes into this with the benefit of one run under his belt and is dropping back in distance. I have ridden him on soft ground before his first start and he gave me the feel of a horse with good natural speed. If he handles the heavy track conditions he will make his presence felt against this field, where most of the runners are having their first race starts.

Race 2 is the Steller Plate over 1200 metres for maiden two-year-old’s, my ride here is JAHBATH (NZ) who is trained by the Hayes, Hayes and Dabernig team. This gelding by Foxwedge is raced by Shadwell Stud. He had one start at the beginning of the year where he finished last, he was sent for a spell after that run and was also gelded. He races first up here and has had an official trial at Tatura in preparation for his return. He has drawn a wide barrier and will need luck in running, he is also untested on heavy ground.

Race 3 is the Bentons Square Plate over 1200 metres for maidens, my ride here is FIGHT who is trained by Nikki Burke. This three-year-old gelding is by Fighting Sun. The stable must have a big opinion of this horse as he is named after a good horse that was trained by Nikki’s father Barry, and he races in the same colours. He has had two starts for two placings, he made his debut at this track where he finished third over 1000 metres, he then stepped up in distance to 1200 metres at Moe seven days ago and finished second by the narrowest of margins. He has drawn a favourable barrier, has experience around the track and he has proven he handles heavy ground. With these things in his favour he is the horse they will all have to beat.

Race 4 is the Mornington Car & Tyre Services Maiden Plate over 2000 metres, my ride here is INFALLYBELLE who is trained by Cindy Alderson. This three-year-old daughter of Fiorente (IRE) is lightly raced having had six starts for three second placings, which have been at her last three runs. She is proven in soft ground and two starts ago she ran well at the track and distance and that experience will help her again today as this can be a tricky track. She is a filly that seems to race on-speed making her own luck and will be one of the main chances in this. It would be a great race for her to win her maiden in as it is worth of $60,000, being a city race.

Race 6 is the BM64 Clanbrooke – Andrew Doman Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is REALLY SWISH who is trained by Leon & Troy Corstens. This three-year-old colt by Real Saga races here third up this campaign. His breeding suggests he will handle heavy ground and first up this preparation he finished second on soft ground at Sandown over 1000 metres, and I rode him in that race. He stepped up to 1100 at his next start at Flemington where he closed the race off nicely. He steps up again slightly in distance and I hope to be able to utilise a favourable inside barrier draw today. He does tend to step slowly, but if I can get him to step with the field and hold a forward position he will take a lot of beating, provided he handles the track conditions.

Race 7 is the BM64 Progress Signs Handicap over 1200 metres, my ride here is SEARCH SQUAD (NZ) who is trained by Leon & Doug Harrison. This eight-year-old gelding by Falkirk (NZ) has had 68 starts for a record of six wins and 18 placings. I won on him two starts ago in March over 1300 metres at Sandown and since then he had a freshen up and resumed with a solid effort in the Travis Harrison Cup for apprentice riders at Cranbourne. He has drawn a wide barrier and has one start for one win on heavy ground. He is a horse that needs races run to suit him and if finds his best form he will take a lot of beating in this.

Eagle Farm Preview

Today I’m riding at Eagle Farm in Brisbane where it’s their feature race day of the year. The rail is out two metres and the track is rated in the good range with rain forecast throughout the day.

Race 2 is the Group 2 PAGES EVENT HIRE DANE RIPPER STAKES over 1400 metres for fillies and mares, my ride here is SWEET DEAL who is trained by John Thompson. This four-year-old mare by Casino Prince has had 21 starts for a record of four wins and seven placings. She races first up here and from her four attempts when racing fresh has been placed three times and her record over the distance is 10 starts for three wins and two placings. She comes into this being a recent impressive trial winner at Randwick where she won by 9.8 lengths. Under the conditions of the race she carries the minimum weight and will start from a low barrier draw which will give her every opportunity and she can definitely make her presence felt.

Race 4 is the Listed JIM BEAM BLACK HINKLER HANDICAP over 1200 metres, my ride here is ECHO EFFECT who is trained by Kristen Buchanan. I’ve ridden this five-year-old gelding by Reset twice last year through the Brisbane carnival, finishing second and third respectively. He is having his fifth run this preparation and comes into this on the minimum weight and with an inside barrier. He is a horse that needs races run to suit him as he doesn’t have the best speed from the barriers and can get keen in running, so the quicker they go the better it is for him. He should gain an economical run in transit and if he races well for me can be very competitive in this.

Race 5 is the Group 2 ASCOT GREEN QUEENSLAND GUINEAS over 1600 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is ZOUTORI who is trained by Mathew Ellerton & Simon Zahra. This gelding by Zoustar is raced by Pinecliff Racing and partners. I’ve ridden this horse twice for two wins at Flemington and Caulfield and this will be my third ride on him. He had his first attempt racing this way of going at the same track last start over 1400 metres and steps up to the mile again here, which is a distance he has winning form over. He has been given the visitors barrier draw but he is a horse I have a lot of time for and if we have luck from the wide draw, he can win this as he is a talented horse with a bright future.

Race 6 is the Group 1 MAGIC MILLIONS J.J. ATKINS PLATE over 1600 metres for two-year-old’s, my ride here is CHAMPAGNE TOOTS (NZ) who is trained by Liam Birchley. This filly by Sacred Falls (NZ) is having her third start and comes into this as a maiden galloper. She will start from an outside barrier and will need a lot of luck in running. It would be a terrific training effort if she could win her maiden here and go home as a Group 1 winner.

Race 7 is the Group 1 CHANNEL 7 QUEENSLAND DERBY over 2400 metres for three-year-old’s, my ride here is DECLARES WAR who is trained by Matt Cumani. This gelding by Declaration Of War (USA) is raced by Domain Thoroughbreds and partners. He has had 10 starts for a record of four wins and two placings. He has been very competitive in Group races through the Autumn and it feels like there is a sense of timing around him for this race. This will be his first attempt at the distance as well as his first attempt racing in this direction. He comes into this full of confidence off the back of an impressive last start win at Flemington over 2000 metres. He will be given every opportunity from a favourable low barrier draw and if he brings his best form to this strong race and handles racing right handed for the first time, he will be one of the main chances.

Race 8 is the last Group 1 race for the season, it’s the TAB STRADBROKE HANDICAP over 1400 metres, my ride here is ENCRYPTION who is trained by James Cummings. This three-year-old colt by Lonhro is raced by Godolphin. This will be his last race start as he will commence stud duties as a stallion in the new breeding season. He has been a very good horse to me as we won the Group 2 Danehill Stakes at Flemington in the Spring and in the Autumn, we finished second in the Oakleigh Plate at Caulfield and fourth in The Galaxy at Randwick. If he brings that form to the races and has luck from an outside barrier he can win this and finish his career as a Group 1 winner.

Race 9 is the Group 2 LEXUS BRISBANE CUP over 2400 metres, my ride here is SOPRESSA who is trained by Ciaron Maher & David Eustace. This four-year-old mare by So You Think (NZ) is lightly raced having had 20 starts for a record of three wins and five placings, she is also the Group 1 Adelaide Oaks winner from last year. Her last two starts have been over a similar distance to this race, she was beaten by just over two lengths in the Warrnambool Cup two starts ago on soft ground and last start she finished second in the Group 3 Queens Cup in Adelaide over 2500 metres when she had blinkers applied for the first time, I won the race riding Valac. She is a horse that races close to the speed and if she has some luck from a wide barrier draw and doesn’t have to work too hard, she will be in this for a long way.