The weekend kicks off tonight with New Zealand-bred Plymouth Road taking on the 3800m BM78 Highweight at The Valley. Race 1 on the card, Plymouth Road is on route to the Jericho Cup so is the set top weight and will be carrying 70kg. A solid staying test, Matthew Williams is of the belief the horse can stay all day, so we are hoping to see the race run out strongly and assist in his fitness on route to the 4600m test later in his campaign.
Saturday sees three runners for OTI head to Sandown for Cup Day where both Azuro and Haky will jump in the 3200m Listed event. Pulling up with lame after his incredible effort in the Hotham Stakes last start, it was found that Azuro had an oncoming hoof abscess. It has since resolved and all reports from the Maher stable is that he is fit as a fiddle leading into this run. They will ensure he is back up on the pace as he was for his Queensland wins and we will be seeing him finishing off the two miles with ease.
Haky also steps up to the plate in the Sandown Cup for new Australian trainer Archie Alexander. A change of tactics and gear for the horse will see the quirky chestnut revived in his way of going. With the aim of being ridden quietly and with cover, we are looking forward to seeing him finish off well.
Joining Haky and Azuro at Sandown is Gallic Chieftain in the Group 2 Zipping Classic over 2400m. After being stuck wide the trip last start in the Queen Elizabeth, a more economic run in transit will see him figuring in the finish.
Le Juge heads back to his winning stomping ground in Queensland for the Mooloolaba Cup over 1600m at Sunshine Coast. The NSW fires caused a little havoc in his travel plans, however he has made it safe and sound and is primed to run a solid race. His regular Queensland pilot is back in the saddle so we hope Robbie Fradd can get Le Juge back to his winning form.
On Sunday, Mr Satchmo will line up in the 2000m Listed Grand Prix de Marseille after his nine length demolition of his rivals last start. Having come back from being gelded and a lengthy spell in Spain, he is back to his flying form. We hope that it can continue this campaign and into his Australian autumn preparation for 2020.
Best of luck to all their connections and happy racing!
