With the Hamilton and Geelong Cups already in the kit bag, we are excited to have two good chances in another country cup this Wednesday with the running of the Group 3 Bendigo Cup.
Win O’Clock is going for a Cup-to-Cup double on the back of his Hamilton Cup success a fortnight ago. The 7yo only returned to the races in August this year, having had two years on the sidelines following tendon issues. In only his fourth start in Australia, he showed his great turn of foot over the 2200m distance and to take out the Hamilton Cup victory was just reward for his very patient connections.
Win O’Clock arrived in Australia in October 2021, but was unfortunate to suffer a tendon injury only a few weeks later having joined John O’Shea in Sydney. After a successful rehabiliation with Matthew Williams and Dr Andrew Cust, known for their successful rehabilitation program of such injuries, Win O’Clock returned to the trials. Quite disastrously, he aggravated the tendon issue and a second rehabiliation was recommended. It’s quite remarkable to have him back in winning form and contesting this feature race on Wednesday.
“He came through the win well, it was great to see him be so competitive. He had a gallop since then and improved over the line. I’ve done a bit of heavy sand work with him and he will go onto the treadmill before his run on Wednesday, which will top him off nicely. He’s on track to head to Bendigo in good form” reported trainer Matthew Williams to owners.
Dean Yendall is booked to ride Win O’Clock in the Bendigo Cup at 54kg.
While hopeful he could secure another Cup, Win O’Clock will have to go head to head with another wearing the OTI colours in Hezashocka, who has also accepted for the race.
Hezashocka has been most unlucky in his current preparation so far, but the step down in class and 2400m distance should be ideal for the 6yo to show his will to win again.
“A disappointing run last start, but I think he will get back his form after a freshen up and on a bigger track. We will space out his runs a bit more and the Bendigo Cup looks very suitable for him. He’s a happy, healthy and sound horse.”, commented Mick Price.
With Damien Oliver booked to ride it would certainly be a race to remember, should he take home the win!
See the full field and all race details for both horses here.
Best of luck to all connections of Win O’Clock and Hezashocka!
