The world-wide span of OTI is highlighted this weekend as we see runners in three states down under and three countries throughout the globe, including Australia, England and France.
Araaja kicks off the weekend at Doomben in sunny Queensland, to take part in a 2020m Open Handicap for trainer Chris Waller. She has produced some strong work this week leading into her race and has acclimatized well after her move from the New South Wales stables. Up against two handy stable mates, we hope to see Araaja put her best hoof forward and be figuring in the finish. The trip and track rating should suit.
To Victoria we see Doroza head to Caulfield for Matt Cumani to contest the 2000m 3yo Handicap. Scratched last start due to an unexpected hoof issue, Doroza has recovered well and is engaged to take on a field of nine runners. He jumps from barrier three with leading Victorian jockey Craig Williams in the saddle – a trainer/ jockey combination who had great success last weekend with Future Score – we hope to see another triumph!
Below: Doroza winning at Geelong.
The miracle horse Loresho travels to South Australia for Matt Williams for the 2100m BM82 Handicap at Gawler. Carrying top weight of 59kg, Williams has engaged apprentice Justin Huxtable to ride with a claim of 2kgs. His previous skin graft injury has posed no issues so far this preparation and is holding up well with his regular beach workouts from his Warrnambool stables. Looking to improve on his last start, Loresho has trained on well and we are hoping to see a turnaround in form.
After an authoritative win last start, Artarmon looks to start in the 2800m Class 3 at Ascot (UK). With restored faith in the horse’s form this preparation, trainer Michael Bell believes he has unlocked the key to Artarmon’s competitiveness and we hope to see this continue into the remainder of his campaign. Silvestre de Sousa takes to the saddle and they jump from a wide gate in nine of ten.
In the early hours of Sunday morning, La Reconquista steps out at in a 2yo Handicap in France at Maisons Laffitte. After a lovely third place in her first career start three weeks ago, the filly has come on well and is showing plenty of promise. As Mantastic’s half-sister we know she will have a bright future ahead and looks a solid each-way chance in this weekend’s race.
Below: La Reconquista as a yearling.
Rounding out the weekend is Tigre Royale who is still looking to break his maiden in the 2200m race at Bendigo for Archie Alexander. With the track currently rated a heavy 8 and showers expected to continue over the weekend, how Tigre Royale handles the tougher going will be a key factor to his performance on Sunday.
We wish all of our partners involved in this weekend’s runners the best of luck and happy racing!
