The on-track action continues to build in the lead up to the autumn racing carnivals and this weekend will see four runners fly the flag for OTI in Australia and New Zealand.
On Saturday, Vee Cece lines up in the Group 3 Wellington Cup over 3200m (Race 9 – 2:50 pm AEDT) at Trentham, New Zealand. The Baker Forsman stable report that the five-year-old mare is well and ready for her next assignment. While she will need to overcome the wide barrier (15), the roomy track at Trentham should play to her advantage. With up-and-coming jockey Wiremu Pinn in the saddle, we’re optimistic that with a touch of luck she’ll put in a competitive effort.
Penshurst steps up to metro level at the Sunshine Coast in a 1600m Class 6 (Race 5 – 3:52 pm AEDT). The Fastnet Rock gelding is in a purple patch of form and aims for a hat-trick of wins. Trainer Matthew Dunn is exceptionally pleased with his work and believes that it is an ideal race for him. Jumping from the perfect barrier (3) and with Luke Dittman riding, we expect him to be tough to beat.
At Caulfield, Southern Rock contests a Benchmark 78 over 2400m (Race 7 – 4:40 pm). Archie Alexander reports that the five-year-old gelding is very well ahead of Saturday and should benefit from the drop down in distance. With Jye McNeil riding from barrier 3, we hope to see him show significant improvement from his last start and hit the line well.
Last start winner Hasstobegood also steps out at Caulfield. She contests a Fillies and Mares Benchmark 78 over 1400m (Race 8 – 5:20 pm). The mare has enjoyed a four week freshen up since her victory at Flemington on New Year’s Day and heads to the event in great shape according to Grahame Begg. We’re expecting her to run very well with Mark Zahra riding from barrier 10.
Best of luck to connections!