With OTI having not brought home the Ballarat Cup since My Bentley’s win in 2010, this year we have three hopefuls trying to do the job for us.
Lidari is currently 2nd favourite in the running, and he has good form leading into the Cup. Last week he finished strongly for a 3rd place in the Group 3 Eclipse Stakes, with John Allen and Darren Weir reporting the horse is now ready for further distance. The 2200m journey of the Cup should suit him perfectly.
Lord Van Percy is only two runs into his preparation after two years on the sidelines with a tendon injury, followed by him being caught up in the well-publicised ibuprofen saga. His last 400m in the Eclipse on Saturday was more than promising and indicates he is ready for further distance. If he puts in a similar performance, he could certainly finish in the money.
Click here to watch a replay of Lidari and Lord Van Percy’s performances in the Eclipse Stakes.
Scherzoso is a consistent performer for OTI – especially when paired with Ben Allen, who has ridden him 6 times for 2 wins and 2 placings. Scherzoso finished 3rd in his last up run over 1800m, needing further and carrying 60kg. With 54kg in the Cup, and over a more suitable distance, he could be hard to beat as well. Click here to watch Scherzoso’s impressive win over 2000m in July.
Unfortunately, all of our horses have drawn outside barriers: Lidari (15), Lord Van Percy (18), Scherzoso (16). Click here to view the field.
With these three talented stayers all reaching their preferred distance, let’s hope that the OTI colours are dominant in the finish!