The preparations for the Autumn carnival are in full swing for the OTI stable. We have seen footage of the exciting stayer, Lord Fandango winner of the Herbert Power Stakes last year, have his first gallop ahead of an impending return to the track. In addition, Aloisia, the Group 1 winner had her first jump out at Caulfield this week. The Aaron Purcell Stable confirmed they are working towards the Australian Guineas with this exciting filly.
Back to the track this long weekend we have two runners on Friday. First out we have Vin de Dance running in a 1400m race in New Zealand for the Murray Baker and Andrew Forsman stable. This is his first run since the spring, with a view to hopefully being ready for the NZ Derby in March.
In Australia, we have Star D’Vega stepping out for Archie Alexander in a 2400m at Mornington. She’s looking to bounce back from a disappointing run last start, which followed a dominant win at Geelong in December.
On Saturday, we have Night’s Watch heading to Caulfield for a 2000m handicap at the earlier time of 11am due to the weather conditions. The Weir stable has been pleased with the Redwood gelding and we look forward to seeing Night’s Watch back on the track, having now had 5 weeks between runs.
We will be rounding up the weekend with Romancer, another Redwood gelding who is stepping out in a 1200m Group 3 for the Donna Logan/Chris Gibbs stable. Following an impressive win at the beginning of the month, he is coming back in distance for this race and we hope that it is run at a most genuine tempo.
Best of luck to all connections!
