Kicking off our weekend is potential Ebor contender Downdraft for Joseph O’Brien. Still just a touch out of the weights for the Handicap at York in England, O’Brien has Downdraft primed for the Listed event at Down Royal (UK) over 2800m in the early hours of Saturday morning (AEST). A win in this race should hopefully see him make the Ebor field.
To Eagle Farm on Saturday, Araaja and Master Zephyr go head to head in the 1840m Handicap. Araaja heads back to Eagle Farm after a brilliant effort last Saturday, with a fast-finishing second place over the mile for the Waller stable. Haydon trained Master Zephyr is also in good spirits, continuing to impress in his track work. He looks to be well placed in the race and a change of gear should see him relax in running and produce a solid finish.
Kellstorm is looking to turn around his recent form, dropping in class to the BM78 over 2400m for the Freedman Racing team. Richard feels he has found the key to this horse in his training, which has enabled him to enhance his fitness and daily routine. This is keeping the horse in a positive state of mind and most importantly, sharper in his work. We hope to see this on display at Rosehill on Saturday.
At Caulfield, Benitoite steps out in the 3yo VOBIS Gold Reef over the mile. She looks poised to make her mark after having a nice freshen up and continues to work well for Clinton McDonald. Damien Oliver takes the ride from barrier one and we look forward to seeing her figuring in the finish.
Romancer joins Benitoite at Caulfield on Saturday in the 1400m handicap. After a win this preparation for Graeme Begg and a solid second place in the Listed Winter Championship last start, Romancer is in fine form and will appreciate the wetter track after some rain overnight.
On Sunday, both Tigre Royal and The Seven Falls head to Bendigo for the stayer’s maiden over 2400m. Tigre Royale is knocking on the door for a maiden win after getting better luck last start with a flying finish to almost nab the win. Archie Alexander is pleased with his progress and believes he is a lovely upcoming stayer. Similar to Tigre Royale, The Seven Falls has been luckless in recent starts, struggling to find the room to make running. We hope to see both horses perform well if given the chance to wind up and work for home.
Best of luck to the connections of all runners this weekend and happy racing!
