Three runners will represent OTI across Australia and New Zealand this weekend. While it will be a relatively quiet weekend in terms of the number of runners, there will be no shortage of excitement as promising filly Seven Twenty debuts for OTI in the Listed Karaka Million 2YO.
Friday
Under lights at The Valley, Zipitsweetie steps up in grade to contest a Benchmark 64 over 2040m (Race 6 – 9:00 pm). A last-start winner, the mare has come through her promising win in excellent order and continues to please trainer Archie Alexander in her work at home. The distance should suit her, and we expect her to put in another very competitive effort. Harry Coffey, who rode her to victory last start, takes the ride from barrier twelve.
Saturday
At Doomben, Le Juge returns from a five-week freshen up to race in a 1600m Open Handicap (Race 2 – 1:58 pm AEDT). The race looks ideal for him, and the Chris Waller stable is pleased with his progress, reporting that he is fit and well ahead of Saturday. While he will have to overcome the top weight, we expect the two-time Group 3 winner to put his best foot forward and be a real chance in the race. Larry Cassidy jumps from barrier six.
One of OTI’s most recent purchases, Seven Twenty headlines the weekend when she takes her spot in the NZ$1M Listed Karaka Million 2YO over 1200m (Race 4 – 4:30 pm AEDT) at Ellerslie, New Zealand. There’s a lot to like about the exciting Power filly who has placed in her two career starts and has been working superbly leading into the race. Jumping from barrier two and under the guidance of up-and-coming apprentice jockey Wiremu Pinn, she should have every opportunity to show her tenacity and figure in the finish.
The race will be the first time Seven Twenty steps out for OTI Racing, who purchased a 50% share in her at the start of the year. Prominent New Zealand owner Terry Lines and the filly’s trainers Shaun and Emma Clotworthy hold the other 50%.
Best of luck to connections!