Midweek racing moves to Mornington tomorrow evening, and OTI heads down the M11 with a strong hand, including two last-start winners.
Race 4 – 1500m BM64 at 5.25pm
Pro Aussie was a dominant winner at Sale last time out, leading from go to whoa with Blake Shinn in the saddle. With Blake re-committing to the horse for this event, confidence is high that the pair can repeat the dose.
Pro Aussie wins at Sale last start.
Our 4-year-old gelded son of Proisir remains lightly raced and progressive, and the additional 100m is seen as a benefit, not a hindrance. Barrier 8 may make things a touch sticky but expect to see the horse roll forward, looking for a spot with cover. He has the versatility to again lead if required. The tight-turning Mornington track should suit, and we expect to see him in the finish again.
Race 5 – 2000m BM64 at 6.00pm
Two sets of OTI colours will step out in Race 5, with topweight Speranzoso joined by our last-start maiden winner, Tierra.
Speranzoso is well-proven in this grade, with four career wins at the 2000m+ journey. He was prominent on his return earlier this month, overrun only late in the piece. With additional fitness on his side, a favourable barrier draw and the weight claim for apprentice Jett Stanley, it would be no shock to see him prove hard to catch on his home track for trainer Clayton Douglas.
Tierra is far less exposed than Speranzoso, with just the two career starts to her name. However, she was most impressive winning at Stony Creek late last month, and trainer Ciaron Maher has been selective in finding her a suitable target to repeat the result. It would be no mean feat for an inexperienced 3yo filly to win against the seasoned horses that present tomorrow, but she just may have the class that some of her opposition lack. From barrier 6 and with Irish visitor Shane Foley in the saddle, expect to see her settle midfield with cover and finish off strongly.
Tierra wins last start at Stony Creek.
Mornington always produces a quality day of racing and tomorrow should be no exception. Hopefully, we’re driving back up the Eastlink with a winner or two in the book.