In the lead up to the Autumn carnival, OTI has already put some great runs on the board, with Gailo Chop, Gallic Chieftain and Lord Fandango all returning in good style recently. Following on from those good returns, Corrs won most impressively over 2300m at Ballarat, her home track, on Tuesday. We also had Penshurst winning by an incredible 14 lengths in very heavy and difficult conditions in France on Wednesday night. Last night, Condamine also showed himself to be in good form, finishing a somewhat unlucky 2nd at Pakenham.
Looking ahead to tonight and Saturday, Star Order will be making her debut at Moonee Valley over 1000m this evening. This filly won her trial at Ballarat last week in good fashion and has been pleasing Matt Cumani. Overnight we have Burrumbeet heading to Lingfield for Ed Walker over 1600m. Although a small field, the opposition has some strength in, so Ed Walker is hoping for a close up effort from his charge.
Tomorrow, we have Vin de Dance in the G2 Avondale Guineas in New Zealand. This is a quality lead-up race to the New Zealand Derby on March 3. His last run was very positive over 1600m and the extra distance should suit. We also have Aloisia returning to the track for this first time since her spring success. Lining up in the Group 3 Vanity Stakes over 1400m, she’s drawn an awkward gate in 11 but is hoped to be hitting the line strongly as a lead in for the G1 Australian Guineas two weeks later.
Best of luck to all connections!