Belthil ready for Australian debut

New Zealand import Belthil is ready to make his Australian debut this Friday at Geelong after joining OTI and new connections a few months ago.

The 3yo son of Telperion arrived in Australia in August. Belthil had two race starts before coming to Australia, in which he finished fourth and second, the latter coming against subsequent Listed-winning filly Pacific Dragon.

Belthil running second at Ruakaka, NZ in July 2022

He showed good progress throughout his races and work in New Zealand and since has only shown positive signs with trainer Andrew Bobbin near Stawell.

Belthil has had two positive trials, his latest one being on December 1st at Ararat, which he won. The 3yo is now ready to make his return at Geelong on Friday in Race 3 over 1200m.

Belthil winning his trial at Ararat in December, 2022 (light blue silks, orange cap).

Belthil will be ridden by Harry Coffey, who has ridden a lot of his preparatory work. They will jump from barrier 11 in a field of 14 + 1 emergency and carry 58kg.

See the full field and all race details here.

Best of luck to all involved!