A quiet weekend for OTI with just two runners but hopefully the recent run of success can continue.
On Saturday, emerging stayer, Gallic Chieftain, will head to Moonee Valley to contest the 2040M Handicap (Race 7, 4.45pm). A 4YO entire, Gallic Chieftain starter his career in France before coming to Australia and joining the Darren Weir stable.
Last preparation was a coming-of-age for Gallic Chieftain. He broke the track record at Pakenham and rounded out his preparation in fast time when winning by 3.1L at Morphetville. Resuming at Warrnambool, it was like nothing had changed as Gallic Chieftain swooped from the back over the unsuitable 1700M to run a slashing third.
At his most recent start at Flemington the jockey reported he simply didn’t let down as expected after being buffeted around. The Weir stable have reported Gallic Chieftain has worked extremely well heading into Saturday’s race at Moonee Valley. Dean Yendall will look to find cover in a midfield position from gate ten and a very competitive run is expected.
Simon Morrish will saddle up his first runner for OTI on Sunday at Ballarat (Race 2, 12.30pm). Urban Royal is a 2YO daughter of Exceed And Excel out of the Zabeel mare, Flouze. This filly has been working impressively and recent jump-outs have shown she’s very much ready to debut.
Jordan Childs will take the ride on Urban Royal from a slightly awkward gate (barrier 10). She will take her time in balancing up and hopefully work to the line strongly. There’s no doubt this filly has a bright future and she will derive huge benefit from Sunday’s outing.
We would like to wish our partners the best of luck with both runners.