As the traditional Warrnambool May Carnival approaches, several OTI runners are gearing up to tackle an array of races over the three days.
The May Carnival is steeped in over 160 years of history and is world-renowned as a quality jumping carnival. The Galleywood Hurdle along with Grand Annual and Brierley Steeplechases headline the week over the jumps while the Warrnambool Cup and time-honoured Wangoom Handicap are the standout flat races.
The Darren Weir trained, Renew, has taken to his jumping career with aplomb having produced two dominant wins from as many starts. Early plans had this 7YO son of Dansili targeting the Novice Hurdle during the Carnival but his 10L Maiden romp at Warrnambool followed by an easy 3.5L win at Oakbank have instead seen Weir target the Galleywood Hurdle.
Weir has eyed off the 1700M Handicap on Day one at the ‘Bool with the promising stayer, Gallic Chieftain. The 4YO was most impressive when winning in fast time at Morphettville prior to a spell and a recent jump-out suggests he’s in good order. He’s in for an exciting preparation as he continues to climb through the grades and a strong showing is expected first up.
Lee and Anthony Freedman are headed to Warrnambool in search of a track with more give it in with Stone Warrior. The ultra-consistent galloper uncharacteristically poor at Caulfield last start with Daniel Moor reporting he failed to handle the hard surface. The 5YO gelding heads to the 1700M Neville Wilson Series Final (BM70) on the final day of the carnival.
The flashy Grey Lion is in the mix for the Warrnambool Cup. Trainer, Matt Cumani, is weighing up whether to head to the ‘Bool or run the 5YO in the Wagga Cup the following day.
The Warrnambool Carnival is a throwback to the halcyon days. Huge crowds, a vibrant betting ring and a cracking nightlife in the coastal town combine create a tremendous experience for racegoers. OTI wishes the club all the very best for another carnival and we look forward to getting down there and hopefully enjoying some success on the track.
