Werribee Cup winner Vardani (Charm Spirit) and progressive galloper Belthil (Telperion) have both accepted in two key feature races at Benalla on Friday.
Vardani’s trainer, Archie Alexander tasted success in the 2017 edition of the Benalla Cup, with OTI’s very own Lord Fandango, before he went to win the Group 2 Herbert Power Stakes and subsequently running 4th in the Caulfield Cup.
A third up assignment in the Benalla Cup ($125,000) has been a target for Vardani since the start of his preparation. His two runs thus far at Caulfield and Moonee Valley have been full of merit, with Archie stating, “I think he has come on again since Moonee Valley and the horse in in great form”. Jumping from barrier 10 and with no rain predicted, conditions look favourable for Vardani to be most competitive. A top three finish will see Vardani claim crucial points for the Country Cup Series Final ($500,000) which will be run on the 18th of November at Caulfield.
To see the full field and all race details for Friday click here
Vardani winning the Werribee Cup in December, 2022.
Belthil will take his place in Heat One of the Melbourne Cup Carnival County Series ($100,000). A top two finish will see him qualify for the final on Oaks Day, the same race Toregene won last year.
Following a winter freshen up, Belthil is poised to run a super race on Friday. His recent Stawell jump out indicates he is back to his best. The lightly raced son of Telperion has teased us with glimpses of his talent and looks the perfect candidate to give his trainer, Andrew Bobbin a starter in the final on Oaks Day.
To see the full field and all race details for Friday click here
Best of luck to all connections!